March 26th, 2025

María Eugenia Silva Rosselli, English Teacher

For two weeks in January, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in an exchange program. I traveled to Indiana, where I had the chance to visit various high schools and middle schools. During my stay, I lived in two different homes with two wonderful hostesses: first, Lizzy, and then Mercedes during the final days.

Mercedes, who teaches Spanish at University High School, a lovely private school in Indiana, will be visiting Uruguay in June and staying at my house. During her visit, she’ll observe classes, interact with students and teachers, and explore the local educational system.

Throughout my time there, I gained a deep appreciation for many things. The public schools in Indiana have impressive facilities: huge gyms, amazing sports fields, spacious classrooms, and abundant resources. However, when I saw how lessons were taught, I realized that in Uruguay, we are doing a fantastic job. We’re up to date with teaching tools and methodologies, and while they offer a broader variety of specialized subjects, I truly believe we’re on the right track.

By the end of the exchange, I started feeling a bit homesick, especially missing my daughter. This story will continue in just a few months when Mercedes arrives in Uruguay.

Programs like these are incredibly enriching. They give you the chance to see how students and teachers interact in a completely different context, offering new perspectives on education that are both eye-opening and inspiring.