Audra
Kasparian – Fulbright Teacher Exchange Program
- Argentina, 2002
Host Institution: Profesorado
Superior de Lenguas Vivas, Salta
I remember being fascinated by National Geographic Magazines
that wrote about remote corners of the globe and end-of-the-world
places. I was intrigued by the adventure, mystery and
ways of life described in them. The explorer in me began
to dream of going there one day to experience it in
person. In addition, as a Spanish teacher, the lure,
drama and passion of Argentina appealed to me and gave
me a desire to travel there. I wanted to dance the Tango,
see the awe-inspiring falls of Iguazú and Evita’s
burial place; I wanted to taste the famous beef, travel
Patagonia and speak the familiar vos.
In addition, as an undergraduate student years ago,
I had a professor who impacted my views regarding education.
He told us about his Fulbright experience to India and
how much it had changed his life and career. I felt
his passion for learning and how much a foreign experience
could enhance our lives and teaching careers. Thus,
when I learned the Fulbright Teacher Exchange reached
Argentina, I knew this was my opportunity. Therefore,
last fall, the dream of traveling to the ends of the
earth, seeing the incredible country of Argentina and
growing personally and professionally became a reality.
My first impressions of Argentina were ones of excitement.
I began comparing Argentina to other countries I had
been to. I was surprised to see how European-looking
the people were and grateful I wasn’t receiving
those penetrating stares common in other Latin countries.
After their appearance, I noticed my accent seemed out
of place so I began to imitate what I heard and play
around with the vos. I also learned quickly to adopt
new vocabulary when I began to unpack my maleta and
was corrected with valija. I had a lot of fun learning
the dialect and accent.
I was impressed with how open and friendly the Argentine
people were. One day I met a woman on the street and
after a few exchanges she invited me over for lunch.
That surprised me at first but later I learned that
was the norm among these people. Making friends was
easy and soon people began to invite me to share in
family traditions. My favorite tradition was the Argentine
Asado. On a Sunday afternoon there was nothing like
gathering together with family and friends and watching
an Argentine grill beef to perfection, as if he were
Picasso on canvas. Finally, the fit between my exchange
partner and her family was perfect, like we had known
each other all our lives.
The friendliness of the people fell over into the classroom
as well. I found my students helpful and accommodating.
My students were the highlight of my experience. Not
only were they open and friendly but they were interested
in acquainting me with their culture and way of life.
I value the many nights they indulged me with discussions
about whatever was on my mind.
At the Profesorado, special festivities were planned
that targeted values and how to live together. With
schools that have very little in terms of supplies and
space but were still able to create a lively, successful
event was truly impressive. It taught me about the power
of groups and what can be achieved together. Too many
times in my culture we are expected to carry things
out alone. What a refreshing and pleasant contrast.
One experience taught me a profound lesson on cultural
awareness and acceptance. One evening a student told
me how impressed she was with my willingness to participate
in the Latin greeting custom or beso. She thought that
since it wasn’t my custom I wouldn’t practice
it there. Her observance made me keenly aware of how
much I was being watched and that my example and actions
would influence their perceptions. A simple act formed
a bridge of connection and understanding. I will never
forget the cultural exchanges, discussions, personalities
and fun we shared together.
Finally, probably the hardest part of my experience
was putting on extra pounds from the wonderful Argentine
cuisine . I had a lot of fun discovering new foods and
traditions. When I discovered the incredibly delicious
maicena cookies I dedicated each martes/miércoles
as día de maicenas then after tasting the ice
cream, los viernes became día del helado. In
addition to sampling new dishes, I also prepared some
from my culture. Our exchange of food became a medium
in which to connect, share and learn about each other.
I think the best part of all was just living the day
to day. The time was invaluable and gave way to new
perspectives of self and the world. I truly had an unforgettable
personal and professional experience in Argentina. I
met new people who became global friends and saw remote
corners of the world I had only read about. My time
there exceeded my expectations and proved to be a highlight
in my life. I appreciate all the work the Fulbright
Commissions are doing to insure quality programs and
experiences. I plan to return next summer, with my students,
to continue the cultural and educational exchange experience.
Thank You!!
Comisión de Intercambio Educativo entre Estados Unidos y Argentina
Viamonte 1653 2º (C1055ABE) Buenos Aires, Argentina - Tel (54 11)
4814.3561/2/1956, (54 11) 4811.1494 - Fax: 4814.1377 -
