Becoming A Cultural Ambassor: USA Teaching Exchange Program

Becoming A Cultural Ambassador: USA Teaching Exchange Program

Teacher Career - By Ms. Mila Vasconcelos

Me at the age of 7 going to teach my first lessons!

Teaching has been my passion since I was little. While some kids played pretend with dolls as their children, mine were always seated in an imaginary classroom, learning how to write their names or favorite animals. By the age of 7, I was confident enough to turn my playtime into a "little school," teaching my neighbors, Pamella and Maria Helena. Today, both are successful in their careers—one in biomedicine and the other in journalism. I like to think I played a small role in their journey!

My dream of becoming an international teacher began in 2017 after visiting a friend teaching in the Dominican Republic. I was fascinated by the cultural diversity in her workplace. At the time, I was teaching elementary and middle school in Brazil, but her experience inspired me to take on a new challenge. I applied for a teaching exchange program through Educational Partners International (EPI), and my journey as an international teacher officially began.

Diversity and the USA Teaching Exchange Program

The teaching exchange program brings educators from all over the world to the USA, emphasizing cultural diversity and global connections. Schools in the USA benefit from these programs because they value the unique perspectives and traditions international teachers share with students.

The program typically lasts three to five years, depending on visa terms and district contracts. As exchange teachers, we undergo extensive training to understand American curricula and develop classroom strategies aligned with U.S. educational standards. School districts also provide ongoing professional development opportunities, ensuring we adapt successfully while growing as educators.

The Hardest Goodbye

Leaving Brazil wasn’t easy. My final days were filled with heartfelt goodbyes to family, friends, students, and colleagues. My students showered me with love, writing me cards, giving me drawings, and even surprising me with little gifts to remember them by.

I still get emotional flipping through those notes and looking at the photos from my farewell party. Every message and smile reminded me how much of a bond I’d created in my time with them. Their enthusiasm for my new adventure made it clear that the connections we build as teachers transcend borders.

Settling In: Training with Teachers From All Around the World

Arriving in North Carolina, I was welcomed by EPI’s training program. For several days, I learned about teaching in the U.S. and met incredible teachers from all corners of the globe: Jamaica, Australia, Bahamas, Philippines, Costa Rica, Poland, and Kazakhstan. Hearing about their experiences and cultures made me realize how diverse and rich this program truly was.

Once training ended, it was time to set up my classroom. For a teacher, few things are as satisfying as crafting a space where students will learn, grow, and feel safe. Dollar Tree, Walmart, and Target became my best friends! I stocked up on bulletin board decorations, colorful bins, and supplies that brought life and personality to my classroom. As I put everything together, I couldn’t stop smiling, imagining the students walking in and seeing a warm, inviting environment waiting for them.

Cross-Cultural Activities: Becoming a Cultural Ambassador

A core part of the teaching exchange program—and the J1 visa requirements—is sharing your culture. This wasn’t just a box to check for me; it was the heart of my experience. I brought Brazil into my classroom with soccer balls, traditional foods, and stories about our vibrant daily life. My students learned about Brazilian festivals, music, and art, discovering the uniqueness of our traditions.

Likewise, I absorbed American traditions and values, finding joy in shared experiences like Thanksgiving meals and Fourth of July celebrations. The exchange of ideas and customs deepened my appreciation for both cultures and helped my students see the world through a wider lens.

Baseball, pancakes for breakfast, Halloween, snow days, picnics, Valentine's Day, Forth of July, Disneyland and Thanksgiving: all part of my life now!

Gratitude and the Next Chapter

As I reflect on my teaching exchange journey, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This experience challenged me, enriched my career, and prepared me for new opportunities in the international teaching market. Since completing the program, I’ve illustrated a children’s book, earned my master’s degree, and expanded my skills to become a global educator.

The teacher exchange program wasn’t just a professional milestone—it was a life-changing adventure. I’m ready for the next chapter, and I’ll carry the lessons, connections, and memories from this experience with me wherever I go.

Ms. Mila Vasconcelos