We asked our students to share why they decided to learn French, what goals keep them motivated, and what the journey has looked like so far. Read on to discover their stories — from first classes to newfound confidence. Here is part 2!
By Melissa Do and Coucou students
4. JOE (IN PERSON – NYC)
When did you start learning French at Coucou and why?
I started taking classes in February 2025. I work as a Sommelier at La Compagnie, a French owned wine bar next door to Coucou and taking classes at Coucou has been on my mind for a while. I finally did it as a new year’s resolution. So many students would come to the bar and they made Coucou sound like a fun and great place to learn French.
What levels have you taken and which level are you at now?
I’ve taken the Debutant Level and am currently in the Grand Debutant Level.
What do you love most about Coucou?
I like the smaller class size; you get to know everyone in your class quickly, you can work on specific weak spots in French and everyone can ask plenty of questions.
What do you enjoy most about the events/workshops? Which ones have you attended?
I have yet to attend any events outside of the classes but they look like a ton of fun! I’m particularly interested in the game nights and the Hip Hop/Rap workshop.
What kind of value have you found from Coucou’s teaching methods?
Coucou has given me a lot more confidence in French and I am feeling much more comfortable speaking, listening, and understanding French.
What are your goals with learning French?
I want to be able to hold a decent conversation in French and also specifically be able to communicate about wine in French.
Do you have a favorite expression in French?
My favorite phrase in french is “Un bon vin blanc” (all the nasal vowels plus wine!)
5. BIANCA (IN PERSON – NYC)
photo: Bianca
When did you start learning French at Coucou?
Following a mother-daughter trip to the French Riviera and a solo Paris birthday trip, I decided to enroll in classes at Coucou’s Soho location in October 2024. I discovered the school on Instagram and liked that it wasn’t the typically rigid and stuffy format we’re used to when taking language courses.
What levels have you taken and which level are you at now?
I began at the Grand Débutant level and recently completed the Apprenti level. Taking group classes (with Eleonore C as my teacher) gave me the confidence to stay in Paris short-term, which I’m doing from this April through July.
What do you love most about Coucou?
I love Coucou’s fun approach to language learning. French can be intimidating, but the classes are just as engaging as they are informative. I also appreciate that they teach us how actual French natives speak; it’s a refreshing change from the stuffy and outdated lessons we learned in university.
What do you enjoy most about the events/workshops? Which ones have you attended?
I haven’t attended any events just yet. But I’m definitely planning on going to some in the near future, especially the events that are related to film and food.
What kind of value have you found from Coucou’s teaching methods?
The lessons are modern and challenging, and make learning French a fun experience.
What are your goals with learning French?
My love for Paris began in 2012 when I studied abroad for a semester at the American University of Paris during my junior year. I always dreamt of returning to the city and was offered the chance to do so twice in 2023, thanks to my magazine job. After attending press trips for D’usse and Martell in both Paris and Cognac, my love for French culture grew. In 2024, my biggest resolution was to teach myself French. Learning on my own was tough, and I realized I preferred a more structured, in-person environment to continue studying.
I do hope to secure a French visa and commit to living in Paris long-term in the near future. But whichever city I’m in, from New York to Paris, I definitely plan to continue taking classes solely with Coucou!
Do you have a favorite expression in French?
“Avoir un coup de foudre”, or love at first sight. To me, it’s the epitome of French being the language of love.
Do you have a general tip you want to share with others, language related or culture related?
We’re constantly told this, but manners go a long way when visiting France. Even if you’re not as comfortable carrying on a full-on conversation in French, greeting people with a simple “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” and remembering to use “s’il vous plait”/”merci” can be the defining factor in the kind of service or attitude you receive.
Also, take your time during your trip. French people savor their long meals, apéros with friends and family, and leisurely strolls. Don’t feel the need to always be in a rush, and remember to cherish all the little moments.
6. BEN (IN-PERSON LA)
photo: Ben
When did you start learning French at Coucou?
January 2025
What do you love most about Coucou?
The conversational style of the classes and how it focuses on the French that people actually speak.
What do you enjoy most about the events/workshops?
It’s a fun way to meet other people in LA that are also interested in learning French.
Which ones have you attended?
A couple of the mixer events and the embroidery workshop (which was really cool to learn).
What kind of value have you found from Coucou’s teaching methods?
It’s been really helpful to help provide some structure to my French learning. The classes are fun and engaging and don’t feel too much like work.
What levels you’ve taken and which level are you at now?
Currently in level 5 and about to start level 6.
What are your goals with learning French?
To be able to speak French enough to be able to spend a few months in France and connect with others there.
