Foreign Exchange Students Welcomed

Moving to a new school can be a hard experience for any young person, and moving to a new country without your family takes a lot of bravery and a love for adventure. Two young ladies with the aforementioned qualities have found themselves in Encampment, seeking education and new experiences.

Lola Refouvelet left her home of 17 years in France for a chance to broaden her perspective of the world and chose the United States to continue her education. “When I first got close to my new home it felt like I was in an old western movie.” said Refouvelet. English and Language is a passion of hers and was a drive for her to come to the US. When asked about how the school lunches compared to her home countries, Refouvelet just smiled and shook her head and said “it is ok.” Processed food is not served as much in European countries.

Encampment High School also welcomed Yurena Martin Nieto, a 16 year old native of Spain. “Everyone (school staff members) has been so nice.” she said. Ms. Nieto seemed to be more excited for the sports programs the school offers, and the school spirit and camaraderie that comes out of school sports. Spain does not offer sports programs through school and has to be pursued independently after school is out.

Both of the new Tiger additions commented that schooling here has been much less stressful than they experienced in their home counties and that the staff of Encampment High are very friendly and accommodating. Nieto and Refouvelet have both joined the volleyball program and are planning on joining the basketball team later in the year.

Clint and Dana Bromley have been gracious enough to offer their home and parental guidance to the two young women for their 10 month stay in Encampment. Both young ladies said “The host family has been very nice and welcoming.”