WAFLT Teacher of the Year

Living with a host family in Paris, I quickly learned that language was more than just vocabulary and grammar rules – it was a gateway to understanding different ways of thinking, living, and viewing the world. My host family’s warmth and patience as I stumbled through conversations helped me realize that genuine connection transcends perfect pronunciation or flawless grammar. Each day brought new discoveries: the rhythm of daily life in a French household, the importance of shared meals, and the subtle cultural nuances that textbooks could never fully capture.

One particular moment stands out in my memory. During a family gathering, I found myself engaged in a deep conversation about Le Tour de France with my host sister’s grandfather. Despite my limited French, we managed to share ideas and perspectives that bridged generations and cultures. This experience showed me that language learning isn’t just about communication – it’s about building bridges between different worlds and perspectives.

This transformative experience ignited a passion that would shape my career path. Today, as an educator, I am committed to helping students discover the same joy and transformative power of language learning that I experienced. Cultural competency isn’t just a buzzword; it’s an essential skill in our increasingly interconnected world. Understanding different cultures and speaking multiple languages opens doors to career opportunities, enriches personal relationships, and develops critical thinking skills.

The value of learning another language extends far beyond the practical benefits. It cultivates empathy, as we learn to see the world through different cultural lenses. It challenges our assumptions about what we consider “normal” or “universal.” Most importantly, it helps us recognize our shared humanity across cultural boundaries.

As someone who has experienced firsthand how language learning can change a life, I encourage all students to embrace this journey. Whether through study abroad programs, hosting an exchange student, going to a cultural fair, the opportunity to step outside our comfort zones and engage with different cultures is invaluable. The skills and perspectives gained through these experiences – adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and global awareness – are increasingly crucial in our interconnected world.

My time in France wasn’t just about learning a language; it was about discovering a new version of myself. It taught me that when we open ourselves to new languages and cultures, we don’t just learn about others – we learn about ourselves in profound and unexpected ways.