Ioana Luciana Opriș

My Fulbright experience inspired me to deeply reflect on who I am, not just as a teacher but as a person. It challenged me to step beyond what was familiar and opened my eyes to the incredible power of collaboration and the warmth found in authentic relationships. Through meaningful conversations and shared moments with educators from around the world, I discovered strengths within myself that I didn’t even know existed. Returning home, I felt transformed—more confident in my voice, more compassionate toward my students, and driven by a renewed sense of purpose. Fulbright didn’t just shape me professionally; it allowed me to become the best and most authentic version of myself.

I was part of the Spring Cohort in the Fulbright Teaching Excellence and Achievement Program in 2025, hosted by Florida Gulf Coast University, in Fort Myers and I couldn’t be luckier. I firmly believe the academic experience we received at FGCU was unique, thanks to our dedicated U.S. guiding team, who ensured exceptional professional, academic, and personal experiences. The thoughtful collaboration between The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, IREX and the Department of Education at FGCU resulted in a carefully crafted schedule filled with workshops, trainings, practicum opportunities, and community engagements. Through these activities, we gained invaluable insights into American academia, culture, and daily life.

FGCU- host University

Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) offers an exceptional academic environment that seamlessly blends professional excellence with a deep commitment to environmental preservation. The fact that the university provides a unique setting where education and nature coexist harmoniously was absolutely amazing. This integration of academic facilities within a natural reserve not only enhances the learning experience but also fosters a profound appreciation for sustainability and environment. That is why I think it was the perfect place for an Environmental Cohort. The serene landscapes and thoughtfully preserved ecosystems create an inspiring backdrop for scholarly pursuits, making FGCU a place where intellectual growth and ecological awareness go hand in hand.

From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed as valued members of a vibrant learning community. Faculty and staff fostered rigorous academic growth, balanced seamlessly with the campus’s relaxed coastal charm of palm trees and sunshine. Workshops were enriching yet filled with cultural activities, warm interactions, and laughter—making our learning experience feel like a shared adventure where ideas flourished and friendships blossomed naturally even though the program itself was intense.

Academic seminars

My participation in the Fulbright TEA program profoundly shaped my teaching philosophy and instructional methods. The Teaching Methodologies sessions highlighted student-centered learning and active engagement, introducing me to inquiry-based learning, differentiated instruction, and formative assessments. I deeply connected with the importance of culturally responsive teaching, emphasizing the integration of students’ various backgrounds into the classroom experience. 

The Instructional Technology seminars expanded my view of educational technology as a powerful tool, introducing me to interactive platforms, AI-driven learning tools, and digital collaboration techniques. I was particularly inspired by blended learning and flipped classroom models, which encourage student ownership and engagement beyond traditional classroom settings. 

Additionally, the Environmental seminars offered valuable insights into sustainability education, highlighting place-based learning as an effective approach to environmental challenges. Discussions around climate and conservation have motivated me to embed environmental awareness into my teaching. 

Overall, the interdisciplinary nature of the Fulbright program reinforced the transformative potential of education—empowering students to think critically, embrace technology meaningfully, and become responsible global citizens.

Field experience

My educational field practice at Estero High School during my Fulbright TEA Program was an exceptionally enriching experience, allowing me not only to observe the dynamics of the American high school system but also to actively engage students through lessons about my own culture and social studies topics. Estero High School’s excellent organizational structure immediately stood out, from its efficient classroom management practices to the thoughtfully designed schedules that maximized learning opportunities. The school’s leadership team fostered a welcoming and supportive environment, ensuring that visiting educators like myself could smoothly integrate into daily school life. The staff members at Estero High were notably open, friendly, and genuinely interested in cultural exchange. My partner teacher, in particular, offered invaluable guidance and collaboration, enthusiastically embracing my contributions and helping me tailor my lessons to resonate effectively with students. Teaching American students about my culture was a joy; their curiosity, respectfulness, and active participation reaffirmed my belief that students everywhere share a common eagerness to learn and explore the world. This experience reinforced my understanding that while educational systems differ globally, the passion and potential of students remain universal, making international exchanges like the Fulbright TEA Program invaluable for educators everywhere.

“Friendship Families” and cultural activities

One of the most meaningful elements of the Fulbright TEA program was the concept of “friendship families,” where local families generously volunteered to support visiting educators throughout their stay. These families warmly welcomed us into their homes and lives, providing opportunities for genuine cultural exchange and emotional support. The interactions extended beyond formal program activities, offering moments to share everyday experiences, local traditions, meals, and outings. The darling couple I had as a „Friendship family” truly embodied the spirit of mutual understanding, building lifelong connections and leaving me with a heartfelt sense of belonging in a home away from home.

As Fulbright TEA scholars, we also enjoyed cultural immersion activities such as weekend outings to Babcock Ranch, the Naples Botanical Garden and Miami. On campus, we participated in university cultural events and attended sports games, experiencing firsthand the communal spirit and traditions that are integral to American university life.  Additionally, we had four days for personal travel and I chose to visit New York, Washington DC and Philadelphia. After the Program has ended, due to my good academic standings, I was permitted to extend my staying in the States and I went to The West Coast, California for 10 days.

Fulbright – global family of educators

What struck me most during my Fulbright experience wasn’t just the new ideas I learned, but the people I learned with. We came from different countries, cultures, and classrooms—some taught in big cities, others in remote villages; some taught science, others literature. On paper, we couldn’t have been more different. But the moment we sat together, sharing our challenges, hopes, and dreams for our students, it became clear: we were all working toward the same goal. We wanted to inspire young minds, to build bridges through education, and to prepare the next generation to live in a more connected, compassionate world. That’s the Fulbright spirit to me: the power of different voices coming together, not despite their differences, but because of them—united by a shared vision of education as a force for understanding and change.

I left the program with more than just new strategies—I left with a global family of educators who showed me that when people come together with open minds and shared values, they can create something truly meaningful. The Fulbright experience enlightened the best version of myself. It pushed me to listen more deeply, to reflect more honestly, and to lead with empathy. It reminded me that good teaching doesn’t happen in isolation—it grows through collaboration, connection, and shared purpose. I returned home with a renewed belief in the power of global dialogue, and the confidence that even small moments of exchange can lead to lasting impact.

I returned home with a renewed sense of purpose, confident in my ability to foster connections, encourage dialogue, and positively impact my students and community.