Every teacher’s journey is unique, and each experience adds a new perspective to the value of educational and cultural exchange. In this interview, Ilse Torres, an educator from Oaxaca, Mexico, shares her experience participating in the J-1 Teacher Exchange Program through International Alliance Group (IAG). From adapting to a new educational environment to sharing her culture with students and colleagues, her story highlights how international exchange fosters mutual learning, meaningful connections, and global understanding.
What motivated you to teach in the United States, and what aspects of this experience have you found most valuable?
I decided to teach in the United States first of all because it’s a great opportunity for your professional development, you learn new models, new methods, and you can take all this experience to your home country. Also because of the exposure to the US culture and society, you make friends, a family here and finally I’d say that I love that your salary is based on your educational level and years of teaching experience.
What aspects of your professional development have you found most rewarding during your time teaching in the US?
Living in San Antonio has given me the opportunity to experience a new culture, build meaningful connections, and share my own traditions and perspectives with others. This cultural exchange has broadened my understanding of the world and enriched both my personal and educational experience in ways I never imagined.
Ilse’s story reflects the mutual value of educational and cultural exchange between international educators and U.S. school communities. With the support of International Alliance Group, participants like Ilse share their culture, learn from new perspectives, and contribute to meaningful connections that enrich classrooms and promote mutual understanding.
If you are a dual-language educator interested in sharing your culture, learning from a new educational community, and participating in a meaningful exchange experience, we invite you to learn more about the J-1 Teacher Exchange Program.