Learn about the Language of Love

French Club Returns to LLP
By Amauri Barnes

Dr. Roxane Pajoul

     Did you know French is the fourth most widely language in the United States? About 45% of modern English words are of French origin. I decided it was time to highlight the French Club! Dr. Roxane Pajoul was originally born in East France. Her family moved to Paris officially when she turned two years old.

Pajoul was introduced to the United States as an exchange student and has been here for 15 years. “My approach to teaching French at an HBCU is doing things that are interesting to the students. I do not only teach about France or Paris but about the world.”

French Club 2023

Her teachings include not only the language of French, but also of the culture of different countries that speak French such as North, West, and Central Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, as well as the Caribbean where her father is from.

The French Club meets once a month in Humanities and the next meeting will be on October 26^th.  Along with the language they also discuss slavery, colonization, and all the post effects of colonization and slavery. The French club is unique because it is based on things that excite the students such as food and games.

Speaking of food, Pajoul brings cuisine from the only authentic French restaurant in Nashville
that is located on the east side of the city. Once Upon a Time in France is a very popular restaurant whose menu consists of different pastas, desserts, and fine wines. She brings French food either prepared by herself or from this restaurant to every French Club meeting so that the students get a taste of the culture.

Pajoul suggests students read French authors, especially if they are interested in learning more about the culture. She enthusiastically endorsed Maryse Conde’ a French novelist, critic, and playwright from the French Overseas department and region of Guadeloupe.

The French club is open to all students who speak or are interested in learning more about the language and culture! In coming days, look for flyers posted around the Humanities Building highlighting the next meeting dates.