FAQs

Whom is this program open to?

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Generally, we encourage constraints between those in grades 6-12, or around the ages of 13-18. This is to enable sufficient outreach to students that have a relatively solid foundation of the foreign language they are studying, and can truly gain from the experience. We also try to pair students with the closest difference in age possible: this is not only key to facilitating exchanges of similar skill levels, but will ensure the most fruitful bonds between partners.

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Ideally, students in the program will have already begun formal education of the foreign language—whether through a class or extracurricular activity. It doesn't need to be extensive, but enough that the exchange can be productive for both members who are trying to learn each others' language.

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Finally, as this program seeks to connect the anglophone and francophone communities, we require that students either speak fluent English or French, or live in an anglophone or francophone country.

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Do I need any background or existing skills to start?

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Extensive background or experience in your respective foreign language isn't required. In fact, it's encouraged to participate if you aren't extremely fluent in your language for the greatest amount of learning possible! However, we do require that education in the foreign language is established: the program is not intended for someone with no experience and who doesn't intend on continuing such experience.

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Is there a cost involved?

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Absolutely not! We'd be doing a disservice if we put a price on education. However, we do encourage fundraising for certain causes in the francophone community—it not only unites people for a common goal, but is also conducive to education and a better worldview.

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Do I need a computer?

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A computer or smartphone is necessary for the program—the only other way to efficiently connect the world is through physical travel! Participants will also need to have installed the necessary applications, such as web browsers, and have a reliable, stable Internet connection. This is to ensure that each virtual exchange is the best experience possible.

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What is the program structure?

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The program rests on three pillars: language, culture, and worldview—and yes, all of them do tie into each other. Each activity aims to tackle one or more of these ideals. Language literally involves learning the foreign language of study (French or English). Culture is separate—one can learn about another culture without knowing the language of that culture—but cultural education is key to optimizing the education of a foreign language, and vice-versa. Worldview is the bigger picture: equal attention to both language and culture leads to a healthy and well-rounded worldview. Worldview ideals can be applied to all aspects of life, regardless of whether one pursues a career in foreign studies or not.

 

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How much time do I need to devote each week?

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HelloCoucou is flexible to the needs of each participant and wants to ensure that time is not a limiting factor to the benefits one can reap from this program. In general, it is at the participants' discretion how long they want to participate for, and this should be coordinated and agreed upon between pairs.

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We encourage students to spend around 2-4 hours a week for the optimal experience, with flexibility to a reasonable degree accounted for.

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