As an American educator, I know it is important to recognize cultural differences and to accept them. I also know by doing so, I create the possibility of forming deeper connections with my students and their families. The education system in America is very different than the education system in Rwanda. I need to be aware of language barriers, cultural norms, ethics, competency and more.

The education I have received in the United States targets different content areas than the schools in Rwanda hit on. For example, in Rwanda, they learn more about their agriculture and how to be a member of society in that way. This is different than what I have learned because a member of society in the United States is not the same as a member of society in Rwanda.

I am very eager to learn more about how Rwandans live their everyday life and what the school systems are like. I don’t necessarily know what to expect the schools to be like. I feel like I will get a lot of questions and stares the first couple days and students will be interested in my American accent. I am wondering what the teacher in the classroom will want me to teach or help with and if there is a correct or typical way to provide that help.

I am interested in learning more about the ages of students and their grade levels and what they want to be when they grow up. I want to know what the kids enjoy doing in their free time and what their favorite things are in Butare. I feel like my students will be surprised to not see a person of color and will be excited but curious as to what I am doing in their classroom. I am not nervous for this experience, but I am excited and ready to see the culture, try to food and, most of all, learn!

I have traveled to other countries and have learned different languages and have seen different ways of life, but every time, I get a thrill of excitement and eagerness to see more of the world. I want to use the skills and resources I have learned inside my classrooms and provide the assistance the students and teacher want me to provide. One of my biggest fears for this experience is coming off as inconsiderate toward the people and community in Rwanda. I want to try my best integrate myself into the culture in Rwanda and not let any preconceived notions I have of the country hinder my views once I get there.

I am there to learn about their schooling system and accept it and not try to change or westernize their lives. I don’t want to flaunt my white, American privilege, so I want to always be aware of the words I speak, how I dress, and how I act. I have all the faith in the world that this is going to be a great experience for me, and I feel so fortunate to get this opportunity to travel and make a difference. This will provide me with the right resources to be a culturally aware teacher and individual.