Central Unified French students learn how to take their studies overseas in college

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- At Justin Garza High School, you can find French teacher Christina Cruz.

She's an advocate for all languages.

"We have a really robust Spanish program, but I really, really love to focus on lots of other cultures and languages, because we are World Language Department, after all," Cruz said.

She's also an advocate for students expanding their educational horizons.

That's because, in college, she studied abroad for a year in Lyon, France.

"I think doing a semester, it really kind of gives you a taste. When you stay there for a year, that gives you a real experience, and I was very, very fortunate to be able to do that," Cruz said.

She shares her experiences with her French students in hopes of inspiring them to do the same.

One of her students, sophomore Imani Rosales, says just hearing Cruz's stories piqued her interest.

"Our teacher here has discussed, you know, she studied abroad as well, so she's been open to speaking about her experience, and it's inspired me to go," Imani said.

That interest was pushed even further on Tuesday after Cruz arranged a visit from a Fresno State representative who shared details on the college's study abroad program.

In a room filled with more than 100 French students from Justin Garza High and Central East High, they received insight on where they could travel, common mistakes to avoid and testimonials from students who have previously studied abroad.

For Imani, it built confidence in her future plans.

"I found it very helpful, gave me insight on how to prepare, tuition, what to know before you go," Imani said.

Cruz says she hopes the presentation gave students a better idea of what's available to them and removed potential barriers.

"What I'm really hoping that they take away is that they really start considering that if they want to study abroad, I really do not want them to think that it's too expensive. It's not something that 'I can't do,' that's not the case," Cruz said.

If you have a student who is interested in studying abroad, you can find more information about Fresno State's program on their website.

For news updates, follow Jessica Harrington on Facebook, X and Instagram.