A year ago, I embarked on a new adventure, one that has changed me in so many ways. After a mere four days back in my home, I'm in Washington, D.C., working with Fulbright in a different capacity. I was invited to be an alumni resource to help prepare the outgoing teachers to France.
It's interesting being here on the other end. Just over a year ago, I was here, meeting my fellow Fulbrighters and listening to another alumni expert impart his wisdom upon us. Confident that I knew France and the French, I confess I didn't always tune in to what he was saying. Humbled during my first days of school, I wish I'd paid more attention. This time, I'm the one sharing my experiences with a small group of teachers, wide-eyed and ready to have an incredible year. I don't know if they took everything I had to say to heart, but I hope that some of my advice will help them transition into their new schools.
I know I'm not the be-all-end-all expert on how to teach English in France. In fact, I feel like I did a pretty mediocre job. But talking about my year, adding personal anecdotes and recalling the kindness of my colleagues and everyone else I met, I can't help but smile and secretly wish I were leaving all over again.
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