Here in Angers, there is a program known as VVV, which is a group created to exchange cultural differences between American and French students. The members will go out to bars around the town on a set night just to spend some time together. It is a way for the French students to learn more English and for the American students to learn more French. It's a great way to meet new people as well as an excellent opportunity to better your speaking skills and expand your vocabulary in a different language. As an American, you're also able to share some of your experiences with the French students and teach them some new vocabulary of your own.