By: Jessica Kissell, Vice President of Professional Exchange Programs
I grew up in a family that places the highest importance on education. My mom was a teacher, and from a young age, I saw how her passion for learning shaped the lives of her students and our small and tight-knit community in New Hampshire. My sister followed in her footsteps and became an educator as well, teaching around the globe and in the U.S., and she has been a constant source of inspiration and awe! Through both of them, I’ve seen how one dedicated teacher can ignite curiosity, shape values, and change lives.
For me, the world has always been a vast playground for learning, with lessons hidden in every conversation, every journey, and every cultural encounter. I was taught that learning is not confined to the four walls of a classroom—it is a lifelong pursuit that can happen anywhere, at any moment.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
This belief took on a deeper meaning with my volunteer work in rural Tanzania. Spending time and hearing the stories of both students and teachers, I witnessed firsthand how education transforms not just individuals, but entire communities. Many students walk miles to get to school each day, driven by a deep hunger to learn, and the teachers show incredible dedication despite limited resources. I have seen countless times how one teacher can open a door to opportunity, how one lesson can change the trajectory of a life. These experiences have deeply shaped my understanding of education as a force that doesn’t just change minds, but shifts societies.
My professional journey over the past two decades in the cultural exchange industry has only reaffirmed this conviction. Education and travel, in my experience, are inseparable companions. Traveling allows people to step outside their comfort zones, immerse themselves in unfamiliar environments, and see the world through different eyes. In my role, I have traveled extensively to meet with our sending partners, learning not only about their organizational practices but also about the unique cultural and social contexts in which they operate. These interactions have taught me as much as any formal training could.
Greenheart’s TeachUSA Establishes Global Connections!
One of the most enriching parts of my work is interacting with participants while they are on their programs. Hearing their stories—whether about their first time navigating an American grocery store, sharing their national dishes with host families, or overcoming language barriers in the workplace—underscores how powerful cultural exchange can be. Equally rewarding is witnessing the ripple effect on American communities. Host families, schools, and organizations often share how these exchanges broaden their perspectives, encourage openness, and foster lasting friendships across borders.
This is one of the many reasons why I fully support the U.S. Department of State’s BridgeUSA cultural exchange programs. These initiatives serve as bridges—connecting people, ideas, and cultures in ways that build mutual understanding and respect. Among these, I believe the Teacher Program holds a particularly profound impact. Teachers, by the very nature of their role, are daily touchpoints for countless individuals. They engage with students, colleagues, parents, and the broader community. Through these interactions, they do more than just teach subjects—they share their heritage, their perspectives, and their worldview.
International Teachers Enrich American Classrooms
For instance, while mathematics is universal in its logic and principles, the way it is taught and applied can vary greatly from country to country. A teacher from the Philippines might approach problem-solving differently than one from the United States, introducing methods, examples, or real-life applications that reflect their own educational background. This not only broadens students’ academic understanding but also opens their minds to the idea that there is more than one way to approach a challenge.
The Perfect Formula for a Fulfilling Learning Experience
Ultimately, cultural exchange programs—especially those involving educators—are powerful catalysts for growth. They cultivate empathy, inspire innovation, and remind us of our shared humanity. In a world that is increasingly interconnected yet often divided, fostering these connections is more important than ever. Education, paired with the transformative power of travel, has the potential to shape not only individual lives but also the future of our global community.
I’ve seen it in my own family. I’ve seen it across continents. I’ve seen it through our BridgeUSA J-1 teachers. And I see it every day in this work. Education changes everything.
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.