LEXINGTON, Va. May 1, 2026 — International engagement at VMI goes both ways. In addition to cadets studying abroad, the Institute hosts international cadets — some for four years, others through short-term exchanges. These cadets provide international leadership development to domestic cadets without having to leave Post. Furthermore, the international cadets themselves also widen their own global perspectives and build critical thinking, resilience, independence, and the ability to communicate across cultures. Learn more through our Study Abroad Ambassadors.

Name: Simon Lemaire

Planned Graduating Year: 2026 

Major: Computer Science 

Resident University: Académie Militaire de Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan 

What program are you participating in? Is there a specific name or designation for it? 

During our last year, every French student from my school has to spend one month in a foreign country. We call this program “Mois International” (International Month). 

What made you decide to participate? 

Even if everyone has to do it, it is a real opportunity to travel around the world and meet new people. 

What made you choose going to VMI for this? 

I chose Virginia Military Institute because I wanted to travel outside of Europe. There were only six spots available for the United States of America (two at West Point, two at The Citadel, and two at VMI). I didn’t know much about these schools, but I heard that VMI has a great history, so I chose it. 

Can you describe how the exchange program works? 

The purpose of this program is to improve our English, or any other language we are learning (English, Spanish, German, Arabic, ...), by talking with native speakers in their country. 

What did you expect and how is it different? 

I expected to be with other students at VMI, to attend classes with them, and to live like a real VMI student. This experience is not different from what I expected.

What do you think you are gaining from this experience? 

I will definitely improve my English, but I will also make contacts at VMI that I want to keep after my month here. This experience shows me the life of an American student at VMI, but also outside of VMI, because we can visit Lexington or Washington, D.C. if we want and if we have time. This is a great experience, and I am glad to be here. 

What has been the most surprising thing about this experience?

Of course, the rats and how they are managed by their elders. We don’t have anything like this in France. 

What has been your favorite part? 

My favorite part is probably the philosophy of VMI. Students learn discipline, they learn to work hard, and they acquire a military mindset, which I think will benefit them during their entire lives. 

- VMI -