In a post-Sept. 11 world, Chamorel is optimistic that through this tragedy will come strengthened trans-Atlantic ties. "The beginning of the Bush administration was received extremely negatively in Europe, and I think that September 11 stopped that," he explains. "I mean, the headline of the French establishment newspaper on the day of the attack said, 'We Are All Americans.' This from a newspaper that has very often been critical of the United States!"

A product of the centrally controlled Parisian "grandes ecoles" and university system, Chamorel appreciates the diverse and competitive nature of higher education in America --- a system he enthusiastically calls "one of the great American institutions." So far, he has "a very good impression" of CMC students. "My students are very motivated and exposed to the kinds of issues we're going to address."

Following his semester at CMC, Chamorel will go to the Woodrow Wilson Center in Washington, D.C., to continue his work on trans-Atlantic relations, working to build the body of knowledge between Europe and the U.S. that he sees as lacking. "The way that we proceed is going to be very important for the future of transatlantic relations," he says solemnly. "I think there's going to be a competition of ideas about Europe within American decision-making circles."

Chamorel and his wife, Adrienne Jamieson, an American, have no plans to return to France in the near future. "But I always dream of a nice house in the countryside," he adds with a smile.

Above all, Chamorel encourages today's leaders --- and leaders in the making --- to keep an open mind. "Stay focused and motivated, but not in a narrow way," he says. "I think that traveling and understanding other cultures is not only good for one's personal and professional life, but also ultimately contributes to better international relations."