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Letting the Magic Happen: My Fulbright TGC Journey to Uruguay


As I prepare for my Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms field experience this June, one phrase keeps circling in my mind: “Relax and let the magic happen.” It was advice from our in-country representative, and honestly, I’m holding onto it like a compass.


I’m heading to Uruguay—a country known for its welcoming culture, wide-open landscapes, and deep respect for education. And even though it’ll be winter when I arrive, I have no doubt it’ll be full of warmth in the ways that matter most.


Winter in Uruguay: Cool Weather, Warm Connections

Coastal charm during winter


Because Uruguay is in the Southern Hemisphere, June marks the start of winter. That means sweater weather, quiet streets, and slower-paced days—an ideal time for meaningful connection.

 Coastal charm during Uruguay’s winter season.


While I won’t be lounging on Punta del Este’s beaches, I’m excited for crisp walks through historic town squares, long chats over mate, and soaking in Uruguay’s culture without the rush of peak tourist season.


I’m especially looking forward to spending time in Salto, a charming city along the Uruguay River known for its thermal springs, friendly people, and agricultural heritage.


📍 Salto: My Field Placement Destination

 

View of downtown in Salto.


Salto may not be the first name that comes to mind when people think of South America, but that’s part of its magic. It’s a place of local traditions, strong educational values, and natural beauty, like the Termas del Daymán (natural hot springs) and views of the nearby Salto Grande Dam.


It’s also a city that reflects Uruguay’s broader commitment to equity in education—something I’m eager to observe and learn from firsthand.


🌍 Why I’m Leaving Space for the Unexpected


If there’s one lesson I’ve learned from past travel, it’s that the best moments are rarely planned. They sneak up on you—a friendly conversation, an unexpected invitation, a quiet moment that ends up meaning everything.


That’s why I’m heading into this journey with an open heart. I’m not trying to check every box. I want to be present—to listen, to learn, and to let the experience shape me.


Whether it’s a classroom discussion in Salto, a meal shared with fellow teachers, or a street scene that sparks reflection, I know these moments will leave lasting imprints—not just on me, but on the way I teach and lead back home.


🦜 Cultural Notes That Inspire Me

Southern Lapwing - Uruguay's National Bird


Did you know the Southern Lapwing is Uruguay’s national bird? Or that the Uruguayan peso features beautiful images of national heroes and local wildlife?


 Uruguayan currency – rich with local symbolism.


These small but powerful cultural symbols are just a glimpse into what makes Uruguay special—and why I can’t wait to explore it up close.


✈️ What I Hope to Bring Back

This trip isn’t just about discovery. It’s about returning with stories, tools, and insights that I can share with my students and school community. It’s about showing that global education isn’t abstract—it’s personal, it’s real, and it starts with one step outside our comfort zones.


🔗 Helpful Links for Travelers & Educators:


Stay tuned for first thoughts upon touch down in Montevideo in June!

 
 
 

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