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Elaine Guillot
Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications
Office of International Initiatives
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ATLANTA—During the fall 2023 semester, Georgia State University hosted its second-ever cohort of the Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program (Fulbright TEA), which brings international, secondary-level teachers to the United States for a six-week program. The program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and administered by IREX. During the participants' time in Atlanta, they work with the College of Education & Human Development (CEHD) and the Intensive English Program (IEP) faculty to enhance their pedagogical and English-language skills. They gain valuable field experience spending eight days in local Atlanta schools, work with local organizations like AMIS Atlanta and explore the Atlanta area with Georgia State faculty and staff. Participants attend a cultural exchange fair, during which they share their cultures with the Georgia State community.
“We, in AMIS Atlanta, are glad to partner with the Fulbright TEA program at Georgia State University by connecting participants with Friendship Families - local volunteers who agree to connect weekly with the teachers, host them in their home, and to be their friend in Atlanta during the program,” said Rev. Irene Wong, Executive Director of the AMIS Atlanta. “I've heard that some friendships that started last fall are still continuing after the participants went back to their home countries.”
To understand the impact of the Fulbright TEA program, one participant shared their experience.
Name: Laila Farhana Arin
Country: Bangladesh
Profession: Teaching English as a Foreign Language
1. What drew you to participate in the TEA program?
The urge to get acquainted with the U.S. education system and to learn about the best teaching practices was my primary motivation for participating in this program. Also, I used to wonder what it is like teaching in a U.S. school because it is notably different from my teaching context. In addition, I wanted to explore various aspects of the culture and lifestyle. Making lasting connections with educators from other parts of the world also intrigued me to be a part of the TEA program.
2. What are the benefits for professors and students to experience working with international scholars?
In the era of globalization, the educational landscape is a sphere where individuals living in distinct parts of the world are connected economically, socially and virtually. Engagement with international scholars is vital for professors, administrators and students to cultivate a holistic perspective toward the world and education system. The benefits of cross-cultural interactions are many. It allows the stakeholders of developed countries to appreciate the access and privilege they have while those from the developing and developed countries become aware of their potential and scope to upgrade. Moreover, it fosters openness and respect towards diversity by building mutual respect.
3. How did you have an impact on the local community in Atlanta? Did the experience have an impact on you?
During my field experience, I got to share my country’s history, culture, cuisine and education system with the students and teachers at North Atlanta School. Many of them encountered my country’s name for the first time, yet they empathized with the struggle of my people for independence and democracy. The drive and grit of the Bangladeshi students to learn and to grow was a revelation for the students and teachers of the US, sparking their interest to know more about my country. The experience was exceptional because many expressed their desire to visit Bangladesh. Conversely, I was pleasantly surprised by the warm hospitality of my host university, teachers, and the host family. They welcomed me with open arms. Though I was far from country and family, I never felt alone here. Atlanta has become second home to me. My interaction with the Atlanta community helped me have a deeper understanding of the U.S. lifestyle, culture, and people in general. I am returning to my country with profound gratitude towards the Atlanta community and the people of the U.S.
4. What experience/memory gave you great joy that you will you take away from your time here?
Each moment of this program holds a special place in my heart. I have forged strong connections with my fellow Fulbrights, my teachers, the OII team and everyone included in this program. With every word of appreciation, every warm hug and gesture of kindness, they warmly embraced me. Metaphorically, when I arrived in the U.S., I felt like an empty vessel, but I am leaving filled with love, positivity, and confidence that my Fulbright family poured into me. I will cherish these bonds and friendships forever.
5. What knowledge or experience did you gain that you will implement in your classroom back home?
The FTEA program has equipped me with the knowledge, skills and abilities to cope with the fast-paced changes in education. I have learned to integrate advanced technology and AI into my teaching to bring life into my lessons. Moreover, I gained insights about creating lessons that are culturally relevant, responsive, and sustaining. In addition, I would implement student-centered activities, peer assessment techniques, rubrics and classroom management skills in my classroom. The academic sessions have also made me realize that besides ensuring students’ academic progress, it is equally important to prioritize their mental wellbeing. The TEA program has given me a vision to impact my teaching community by disseminating the knowledge I gained.
6. What would you tell someone to encourage them to apply/participate in the Fulbright TEA scholars' program at Georgia State University?
The Fulbright TEA scholars' program at Georgia State University is a once in a lifetime experience for any educator. Besides instilling knowledge, the teachers, and staff of Georgia State University molds an educator into a teacher leader who is ready to bring impactful changes in the community. The greenery and the welcoming community of Atlanta will make anyone feel at home. Furthermore, the interactions with fellow Fulbrights will help a teacher perceive concepts from a global perspective. Overall, it is a transformative experience for anyone, both personally and professionally.
The Office of International Initiatives builds interdisciplinary synergies and expands global opportunities where faculty, staff, students and our Atlanta-area colleagues can collaborate, innovate and form engaged partnerships with far-reaching impact. To explore collaborative opportunities with the Office of International Initiatives, click here.