Otto Portzline graduated with a B.A. in French and philosophy from Lawrence University, and lived in Rouen, Normandy the past two years teaching English at elementary and middle schools. He began learning French at the French International School of Oregon, a French immersion school in Portland. Otto believes that language immersion is one of the greatest ways to learn a language and connect across cultures. He hopes to become a high school French teacher in the future. Outside of work, he loves to play piano and cook.
The Alliance Française de Grand Rapids is one of over 1,000 Alliances Françaises in 138 countries around the world. Each year nearly 500,000 people worldwide come to an Alliance Française to learn French and 6 million attend cultural activities. There are 111 chapters in the United States.
Whether you are a native or fluent French speaker, a student of the language, or an enthusiastic Francophile, you are welcome as a member of the AF Grand Rapids to participate in the wide range of activities organized throughout the year.