In the following lines, Ana Marie Catamco, one of our Teach USA Program teachers, shares her GGLC experience with us!
How do you think your experience of attending the GGLC differed from other participants who came from different exchange programs?
My journey to Arizona started in a public school in the Philippines. I still remember the excitement, but also the fear and uncertainty of leaving my family, my students, my hometown, and everything that was familiar. Looking back now, taking that chance was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Because I came to the U.S. as a TeachUSA teacher, I experienced GGLC through the lens of an educator. While many participants represented internships, university programs, or other exchange experiences, I carried with me the stories of my students, my classroom, and the communities I’ve been fortunate to be part of in both the Philippines and Arizona. When I arrived in the U.S., I expected to become a better teacher by learning new instructional strategies and experiencing a different education system. I did all of that, but I also learned something much bigger. I learned how to start over, adapt, and grow. Those experiences shaped how I participated at GGLC. Every conversation reminded me that leadership is about serving others, embracing different perspectives, and using our experiences to create meaningful change.
What activity that you participated in during the week did you find the most impactful?
The most impactful experience for me was our visit to the U.S. Department of State. Having the opportunity to listen to the speakers and hear their personal stories was incredibly inspiring.
One speaker shared how he challenged the stereotypes and expectations of the culture he came from, reminding us that leadership often begins with having the courage to question what has always been accepted. Another speaker spoke about the life-changing impact a teacher had on her journey, which deeply resonated with me as an educator. The third speaker shared how he left his home country to learn, gain new experiences, and eventually returned home to help build and strengthen his community. That story especially stayed with me because it reflects the purpose of exchange programs, which is to learn, grow, and use those experiences to create positive change back home.
Their stories made me reflect on my own journey. I came to the United States expecting to become a better teacher by learning new instructional strategies and experiencing a different education system. I did all of that, but I also learned how to adapt, become more confident, and grow as both a teacher and a person. Their stories reminded me that every exchange experience has the power to shape not only our careers but also our purpose.
What is something you didn’t expect at the GGLC?
I expected leadership sessions and inspiring speakers, but I didn’t expect to form such meaningful friendships in just one week.
One of the biggest lessons from my exchange journey has been the importance of the people around me. During my time in Arizona, my administrators believed in me, my mentors challenged me to grow, and my colleagues became lifelong friends. They celebrated my successes and encouraged me during difficult moments, helping me become more confident both professionally and personally.
At GGLC, I experienced that same sense of belonging again. Despite coming from different countries and backgrounds, everyone was so open to sharing their stories, cultures, and experiences. I realized that leadership isn’t only built through workshops rather through genuine human connections.
What was your biggest takeaway from the week at GGLC?
My biggest takeaway is that stepping outside your comfort zone truly has the power to change your life. When I first left the Philippines, I thought I was simply coming to the United States to become a better teacher. Instead, I discovered new perspectives, lifelong friendships, and a confidence I never knew I had.
Unforgettable Stories!
The stories shared during our Department of State visit reinforced this lesson. Hearing speakers talk about challenging cultural stereotypes, the profound influence of a teacher, and returning home after studying abroad to serve their communities reminded me that leadership is rooted in service, courage, and purpose. Their experiences made me think about the impact I hope to have when I eventually return to the Philippines.
Reflections on my Teach USA Program
This year, I’m entering my fourth year as a third-grade teacher at Eliseo C. Felix School in Arizona. Along the way, I’ve had opportunities I never imagined growing up. I’ve traveled to different states; experienced places I had only seen in books and pictures and was honored as Certified Employee of the Year for the 2024–2025 school year. That recognition reminded me that my hard work, dedication, and love for my students were seen and valued. When I return to the Philippines, I’ll bring back much more than lesson plans or classroom strategies. I’ll bring confidence, new perspectives, lifelong friendships, and the belief that education and cultural exchange can transform lives. Most importantly, I’ll carry with me the understanding that the knowledge and experiences we gain are meant to be shared in service of others.
I’m incredibly grateful to Greenheart Exchange for making this journey possible, and I hope to pay forward everything I’ve learned by inspiring my students and fellow educators to dream beyond what they think is possible.
Thank you, Ana Marie, for sharing your wonderful story with us! You are an inspiration to international teachers and educators.
Is your school ready to host highly qualified international educators to contribute to the learning experience of your students and communities? Visit HostGreenheartTeachers.org to apply to host today.
If your school participates in one or more of Greenheart’s cultural exchange programs, your school will be eligible for up to $4,000 in grants as a Greenheart School. Learn more by visiting GreenheartSchools.org.