On November 18, 2014, the James Baldwin Information Resource Center welcomed twenty-two (22) students from Lycée Fustel de Coulanges for a presentation about the tradition of Thanksgiving in the United States of America.

These students have been working on Thanksgiving since the start of the year (learning about the history of the celebration, learning about the ways in which Thanksgiving is celebrated).

U.S. Embassy Financial Management Officer Thea Wargowsky offered a feature presentation for the students about the history of Thanksgiving, as well as the activities that make up the contemporary celebration of this holiday.

The students learned about the pilgrims’ journey on the Mayflower, their first settlements in the U.S., the choosing of turkey as the holiday’s main dish, Thanksgiving Day parades, and even “Black Friday” shopping day.

Public Affairs Officer Roberto Quiroz II underscored the importance of cultural understanding in diplomacy and foreign affairs, and encouraged the students to pursue their education with excellence.

“As Ambassador Michael S. Hoza has said, an education is the one thing that can help you achieve your dreams. The United States places a top priority in youth outreach because you will be the ones to lead your respective countries into the future, regardless of what career you choose. The efforts you put today into your studies will build your future.”

IRC Director, Mathias Tientcheu and Education USA Advisor Richard Ewane discussed resources available to students at the U.S. Embassy and encouraged them to take advantage of the opportunities that these can procure.

This Education USA cultural immersion program was held in observance of International Education Week, which promotes international education and exchanges. The program will culminate in an American-style Thanksgiving Dinner to be hosted at Lycée Fustel de Coulanges in the upcoming days.