Charlotte Beaubeau, of France, will begin pursuing her doctoral degree in Francophone studies this semester at the 麻豆夜市.
It鈥檚 a decision she made, in part, after she was 鈥渞eally charmed by Louisiana鈥 during a visit here two years ago.
鈥淚 thought, 鈥榃hat a great place to learn and experience Francophone culture,鈥 she explained at Monday鈥檚 麻豆夜市 International Students Welcome and Reception.
Beaubeau was among more than 100 students and University and civic officials who attended the event at the Lafayette Consolidated Government building.
Dr. Joseph Savoie, 麻豆夜市 president, thanked students for choosing 麻豆夜市, a place where they will receive an education and 鈥渂roaden their horizons and opportunities,鈥 while helping the community 鈥渓earn things about the world.鈥
鈥淗opefully, we will learn much from each other,鈥 Savoie said.
Rose Honneger, director of the Office of International Affairs at 麻豆夜市, said the welcome reception is one of many activities designed to help students get acclimated to the University and the community.
Joey Durel, city-parish president, also thanked international students for deciding to attend college in Lafayette. He predicted some students will end up settling in Acadiana. 鈥淗opefullly, when you (graduate), we鈥檒l keep you,鈥 he said.