The NCC community opened their hearts and homes to sixteen French students from the Lycée Jean Lurçat in Paris , France , on April 5 through the 14. The exchange program has been going on between the school and NCC for about fifteen years, and each year the schools alternate who will host.

“It is our longest running program,” Dr. Manuel Gonzalez, associate dean of adult literacy and director of international programs said. “They [the French students] truly are a part of our NCC family, and it’s a wonderful experience for both our students and the French students.”

“In France, public school isn’t a priority, and private colleges are very expensive,” said Priscillia Baltzeo, a French student from the town of Sucyenbrie. “This campus is very great!”

Priscilla stayed with Melissa Hiller, assistant director for the center for healthcare education, and her husband, Gary.

“Melissa and Gary have been so great and nice,” she added. “I would have liked to have had more time here.”

This sentiment was echoed by other participants and their host families.

“I wish we would have had more time,” said Danielle Pilon, a journalism student from Allentown. Her family became so attached to their student, Auréllie Dell Angela, that Danielle’s mother cried when it was time for her to leave.

“I wanted to make sure she was happy 100% of the time. I would have done anything for her,” Danielle said. “My parents were phenomenal. We all got attached so quickly.”

Although Aurellie is now an ocean away, Danielle can still talk to her every day thanks to the wonder of instant messaging.

“Her mom said if I ever come to France, she will make the bed and cook dinner. I’ll have a place to stay,” she added.

Kyle Anderson, a business administration major from Hellertown, was part of the exchange program last year. He enjoyed living with his French host family, and he was happy to reciprocate this year.

He was able to host a friend, Morad Moumni, he had made during last year’s exchange.

“It’s a good idea. I liked that it is not completely different people. It’s people we’ve gotten to know from our trip last year,” Kyle said. He added that the experience has made him consider the possibility of studying abroad.

The exchange students were able to visit Philadelphia, New York City, Historic Bethlehem, the King of Prussia Mall, and even got to tour Martin Guitar.

On campus, they were given the opportunity to sit in on classes, attend the Student Celebration, go to the business etiquette luncheon, and have a picnic with NCC French students catered by Hampton Winds.

Dr. Gonzalez also credited Sandy Stahl, marketing communications manager, and Melissa Starace, director of alumni affairs, with helping to coordinate the visit.

“It’s a 24/7 job,” he said. “but well worth it.”