Global Fellows 2013-Brazil: A Blending of Cultures with an Outcome of Appreciation

Global Fellows 2013-Brazil: A Blending of Cultures

Ótimo! This is the one word I would choose to describe my experience in Brasil. It is from the latin word optimus meaning best, or “the ultimate.” In Portuguese, it is used to describe something as being great or excellent. I used it everyday in Brazil, and the locals would giggle or smirk, respectfully, in a “that’s cute that she is trying so hard to use our language” sort of way. It didn’t stop me from using it, as it was really how I felt. I used it after a delicious meal, a beautiful performance, or an amazing sight, and there were many of those.

This trip changed my life. The experiences I was able to encounter in this beautiful country are deeper than I can explain in words.  Thankfully I have photos and art I brought back to help me tell the story.

What about Brasil was so great? Now that I have had the time to reflect on my experiences, I can tell you that it was the people. It wasn’t only the people of Brasil that were brilliant; it was the people with which I traveled.

It isn’t everyday that you get to discover another country with nearly 50 people that feel as passionate about education as you do, so I made a point to sit by someone different at every meal, every presentation, and every bus ride. Knowing that we all had something unique to offer one another, I became my goal to make as many life-long friends as possible, all the while reflecting on our experiences together. In every conversation, I always found some connection that we shared. I think if we try hard enough, we will find that true in any meeting.

So how is it that nearly 50 people from all over the nation can travel together as one in search of understanding a new country? It is simple, really. We experienced Brasil with people that value the same things that we do. Together, we appreciated the same things, but from a different perspective. It was through these different perspectives that the tour was made so much richer, and for that I am so thankful.

We travel to discover ourselves. On this trip, we helped each other discover themselves, and in this process we discovered each other. 

Here is a video I put together that highlights some of our experiences together.
http://video214.com/play/JytAvq2GYg1Myep7Ozeh2Q/s/dark

Not just an American Educator

Prior to traveling out of America, I understood that global learning was important and relevant in today’s society and educational system. After recently traveling to Brasil, I learned that it was much more than that. Global education has to be a necessary and purposeful integration into our perspective and curriculum of which we share with our students and peers. I entered Brasil as an American Educator, and I returned home an inspired Global Educator- one who seeks to educate and learn from people of all ages in all parts of the world. I seek to understand people by working with them; I strive to teach others by empowering them to collaborate and strengthen each other's gifts. It is crucial that we not only realize the power that lies in understanding other cultures, systems, resources, and arts all over the globe, but it is more important that we share this understanding with others. When we gain an understanding of others’ values, beliefs, and culture, we are able to make a true connection. It is in this connection that education takes place.

In the coming days, I will share stories and photos from this incredible trip with you. I have processed, I have reflected, and I have recharged. For days, I tried to find a way to share each day with you by using words and photos. I finally realized why it wasn't working. This experience had nothing to do with an agenda of events and the details that went along with it. It had to do with the people I met, the things I learned, and the things I want to share with others. 

I invite you to follow me on this new journey in my career: being an educator that desires to better the education of not only America, but the entire globe.