Teaching Assistant Program in France: A Game-Changer for French Language Learners and a Bridge to Cross-Cultural Understanding

I was privileged to join the 2023-2024 cohort, where I taught 12 English classes each week in the charming city of Le Mans, France. Over time, this delightful town has truly earned its place in my heart—I now fondly call it my “French hometown.”

Keith teaching a 3ème classe in the Collège Joseph Weismann. Original link click here.

During my assistantship, I developed a lesson plan that sparked engaging discussions about American culture and practices, covering topics such as food culture, the obesity epidemic, and consumerism.

TAPIF remains one of the best opportunities for those who value cultural exchange, and I firmly believe this experience allowed me to share my expertise with the Francophone community while also gaining immense insights from my own journey into Francophone culture.

Post TAPIF, what to do?

The 2023-2024 cohort could not have been more blessed. This group also witnessed the inauguration of the TAPIF to Teacher (T2T) Initiative, where participants were encouraged to enroll in classes developed by the University of Paris Nanterre and France Éducation Internationale. These courses enabled students to explore a variety of language-teaching methodologies while equipping them with essential 21st-century skills that have proven invaluable in world language classrooms.

Upon successful completion of the program, participants could transfer their credits to an American university, potentially saving tens of thousands of dollars in tuition costs and significant time commitments.

During one of the TAPIF Alumni Association webinars, I delivered a speech about this remarkable initiative and discussed its transformative impact. Feel free to check it out! (Link to the webinar, please choose the Nov. 2024 Webinar)

Francophile for LIFE

Beyond my passion for the French language, French culture and literature offer a wealth of insight for intellectual scholars. As a sociologist, my experiences within the French milieu have sharpened my critical lens, enabling me to analyze the contemporary world with depth and nuance.

Moreover, my fascination extends beyond academic inquiry—I am captivated by the diverse landscapes of the Francophone world. Join me as I take a deep dive into the rich tapestry of French-speaking cultures and share the discoveries that continue to inspire and inform my journey.

Interested in learning about my TAPIF experience? Drop me a message at knan@schools.nyc.gov

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