The Last Day in Uruguay: A Time for Reflection and Celebration
Today marked the end of our journey in Uruguay. As a participant in the Fulbright Teacher of Global Classroom Program, our cohort spent valuable time in this beautiful country, getting to know its people, culture, and educational system. We had the opportunity to visit different provinces and learn from local teachers and students. Today, we came together one last time to share our experiences and enjoy the company of those we have come to love and respect.
Split into four groups, our cohort had spent the last few weeks exploring different parts of Uruguay. My group was assigned to Salto province, and it was amazing to see how educators in this area are invested in creating a conducive learning environment for their students. From visiting local schools to attending workshops, we learned a lot about the unique challenges and successes of the education system here. It was incredible to hear about the other groups' experiences in Minas, Rivera, and Maldonado provinces. We realized how diverse and rich Uruguayan culture is.
In the afternoon, we rode the public bus to Mercado del Puerto – a food and craft market in Montevideo. We had a great time exploring the shops and stalls that sold local handmade goods. I personally bought a leather wallet and some sketches from a local artist. It was an excellent way to experience the local vibe and practice our Spanish-speaking skills. The trip was such a fun way to bond with our cohort and reminisce about all the things we have seen and learned in Uruguay.
As the evening drew close, we went for our last dinner in Uruguay. The dinner was a celebratory event that hosted Fulbright commissioners, U.S. embassy representatives, and our gracious Uruguayan hosts. We were touched by the gift from our Salto host teachers, Isabel Ingles, Victoria, and Pablo. We enjoyed great conversations, music, and food, and it made us feel right at home. It was a reminder of how much we appreciate these people and the impact they have on our journey.
The end of our time in Uruguay brought mixed emotions. We were sad to leave the beautiful country and the people who had welcomed us into their homes and hearts. However, we also felt excited about our next adventure in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The last day was a time to reflect on all the experiences we had shared and to celebrate the many moments that had brought us closer together as a cohort. As Fulbright ETAs, we came to Uruguay with an open mind and heart, and we left with a greater appreciation for Uruguayan culture, the education system, and the wonderful people we have met along the way.
