Why did you decide to teach abroad with WorldTeach in Guyana?
Ann: Traveling has always been a love of mine. I think the best way to experience travel is getting to know the place through the people. That cross-cultural experience is invaluable. WorldTeach Guyana provided me with that opportunity. It also offered me the opportunity to teach, something that I have always loved doing and felt passionately about. I heard about WorldTeach on NPR one day when I was in need of a change in my life. I immediately went on the website and found the Guyana program. Guyana stood out to me for a couple of reasons. One reason was, I knew nothing about Guyana and that mystery attracted me to it. Another reason being, WorldTeach Guyana was looking for volunteers who could teach math and science, two of my favorite subjects. I am not the biggest fan of English, which it seems most teach abroad programs offer. Also, the Guyana deadline was perfect for me. WorldTeach is great because they offer many different programs that all have different departure dates and the commitment is only for one year. All of these factors led me to the greatest year of my life, thus far.
What made this teach abroad experience unique and special?
Ann: Teaching in Guyana has many perks: good food, good music (you definitely have to get used to it, but trust me, you’ll miss it when you leave), and great times are just a few. One of my favorite things about the Guyanese is how friendly everyone is. I grew up in the South and I think I may still prefer Guyanese hospitality. I also fell in love with the slow pace of life; it helps you take time and really enjoy what is going on around you. Guyana is called “Land of Many Waters,” with a name like that you know there are bound to be some beautiful landscapes - the lush rainforest, rivers and waterfalls paint lovely scenery all over the country. The best part for me was the students, though. It takes a while for them to make sure that you are the real deal. When you finally gain their trust, you have a legitimate opportunity to make a huge difference in their lives. Even just by spending time and going to class, it shows them that someone cares about them. Likely, you will learn just as much from them as they learn from you.
How has this experience impacted your future? (Personally, professionally, etc)
Ann: My time in Guyana taught me quite a bit about Guyana and the culture, but also about myself. The perspective I gained was a perspective I didn’t even realize I didn’t have. I learned how and what to appreciate more, what not to take for granted, how circumstances can be totally confining, how the poverty cycle works by close observation and how much of a difference one person can make in someone’s life. The issues I was exposed to in the Guyanese school systems have inspired me to try and pursue further education and eventually, a career in International Education Policy. Upon my return, I hope to always hold dearly those perspectives gained and I hope to have the opportunity to travel to more countries similar to Guyana and continue learning and growing both personally and professionally.
What is one piece of advice you would offer to someone considering teaching abroad in Guyana?
Ann: If I could offer one piece of advice to applicants or future Guyana volunteers, it would be relax and go with the flow. It’s all about letting go of your expectations and adjusting to your circumstances. Your plans are most likely, NEVER going to go the way you envision them. You are going to be in a whole new world with circumstances you can’t even imagine until you get there. Being able to accept these circumstances and work with them is key. Getting frustrated, about what you don’t have or what isn’t working, won’t get you anywhere. So just keep a good, positive attitude and keep learning the whole time you are there. By doing this you will get far more out of the experience. Also, prepare your Karaoke list, because karaoke is everywhere and loved by all!
