Jumping for joy is a common expression in America, but when foreign exchange student Mohamed Ben Fredj saw snow for the first time, that’s exactly what he did.  Unfortunately, the decent landed him on the side of his ankle and was followed by a couple of weeks of limping as he expressed his enthusiasm about seeing the snow.

 

In his native country of Tunisia, the forecast this time of year is in the upper 60s, but he is happy to experience the chilly weather and the customs West Virginia has to offer. 

 

“I always imagined America to be full of people living in big cities like New York City,” said Fredj. “I anticipated tall buildings and broad streets.  When I was placed in a small community, I found that the true beauty of America is found in small towns such as Bridgeport.  The people here make the country unique and fascinating and I am loving my time here.

 

Fredj had the opportunity earlier this year to share some of the customs, traditions, and facts about Tunisia with the student body of BHS.  The experience reinforced his love of public speaking and he was thrilled that so many people were interested in learning about his home country.

 

“The students and staff gave such positive feedback about the presentation,” said Fredj.  “I am so glad they were interested and had so many questions because that is exactly what I am here to do: answer questions.”

 

After interviewing for the Kennedy Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Program, Fredj was awarded a full scholarship that enabled him to come to America.  BHS English teacher Jared St. Martin Brown’s family is Fredj’s host family and have immersed him in the culture, holidays, and traditions of the area.

 

“American holidays are actually very grand and more festive that any other holidays I have ever taken part of. Halloween was such a unique and exhilarating experience with the trick-or-treating and horror houses and costume parties,” he said.  “Thanksgiving gave me the opportunity to tray authentic American food and spend time with my host family and I cannot wait for Christmas!”

 

The Kennedy Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Program is a scholarship-based organization that affords international students the opportunity to travel abroad in order to break stereotypes, promote cross-cultural understanding, and educate students around the world.  The once-in-a-lifetime trip began for Fredj  when he arrived on August 1 and he will stay until the beginning of June.

 

While in the Mountain State, he and his host family have travelled to Washington, D.C., Dolly Sods, Baltimore and more, but his bucket list includes visiting New York City before he returns home.  He also shares a love of theater, music and the arts with his host family.  He is currently taking theatre, show choir, and public speaking at BHS and is involved with the French Club, Key Club, Choir and the Thespian Troupe.

 

“My host family goes out of their way to make me feel welcome and, although I have only been living with them a couple of months, I think of them as my second family already,” Fredj said.

 

Fredj Skypes with his own family often and particularly misses him mom, the beach and his childhood friends, but social media helps him stay up to date on the happenings back home.  He was able to share some of his personal stories and pictures with the International Fair attendees last month and has introduced some traditional Tunisian dishes to the palates of local friends and his host family.

 

As for Bridgeport High School, Fredj’s adjustment has been very smooth.  Although his home school’s schedule includes longer days and attending classes six days a week, he is very happy with his current course load and his involvement with the theatre.  For his first American Christmas, Fredj plans to celebrate with the St. Martin Brown family, eating, opening gifts and being grateful for the experiences he is having here in Bridgeport.