Fulbright Feature: Woodkensia Charles ‘24

How's your Fulbright experience been? Tell us a bit about your teaching placement and what a typical day or week looks like for you.

My Fulbright experience has had its ups and downs, but overall, it has been an amazing, life-changing journey. I teach middle and high school students at a francophone school as a teaching assistant. My schedule changes every semester, allowing me to work with various classes and teachers. I teach all the digital courses, which are delivered through PowerPoint presentations. My schedule can vary week to week too, due to changes in the digital course timetable, and I occasionally visit different classes to broaden my reach throughout the school. The school is in an interesting space between developed and underdeveloped, meaning resources are limited, most classrooms only have chalkboards, and while some students have internet access, others do not. I do my best to work within these constraints while also navigating language barriers as an ESL teacher. I am also involved with the English club, a few organizations here and individually helping students with their English or application for programs.

Despite these challenges, the people here have been incredibly kind and welcoming. My students bring me so much joy; I love them all and consider them as my kids. The teachers and vice principal are protective, loving, and caring, and for that, I am truly grateful.

Cultural exchange is a core component of the Fulbright program. In what ways have you connected with the local community, and what’s that experience been like?

Since arriving in late August, I’ve been grateful for the opportunity to experience Cameroon, known as “Africa in Miniature.” I visited different regions with friends and had the chance to engage with the local community, culture, and festivities. One of the main reasons I chose Cameroon was because of the West African roots in Haiti, so it was both interesting and fulfilling to see the similarities. For example, the food and certain customs are so similar, and it's been wonderful to experience that firsthand. The conversations have been beautiful, allowing us to learn about each other’s cultures while sharing home-cooked meals.

I also cook for my host teacher and vice principal, and they cook for me in return, along with my friends. We exchange thoughts, opinions, and histories about American and Cameroonian culture, broadening our understanding of each other. I’ve also had the privilege of learning history directly from a village king, which was an incredible experience.I am also very close with my students, they are truly my besties and kids, so a lot of cultural exchange happens with them as well. I look forward to seeing where God leads me on the rest of this journey!

What has been a memorable moment or unexpected experience so far?

One of the most memorable experiences has been witnessing my students’ growth. Seeing them become more comfortable with my accent, engaging in full conversations with me, and developing a better relationship with English, rather than viewing it as difficult and unattainable, has been deeply rewarding.

A standout moment was Bilingualism Day in Cameroon. My younger students performed the Cha-Cha Slide, while my older students showcased African American step dancing and answered questions in English. The entire experience of practicing and performing for the school filled me with immense pride. Watching them embrace language and culture through dance and expression was memorable.

What advice or encouragement do you have for prospective applicants?

You have a limited amount of time, and you’ll likely have a lot of free time. After a month of observation, take the time to journal your goals for your students. For me, I noticed gaps in their learning that I wouldn’t have identified without careful observation for my specific placement and resources.

Remember, you are there to support their goals and projects. Your role is to help them gain the tools and skills to sustain their learning even after you leave. You’re not there to “save” anyone. Listen, observe, and find out how they need you most. Facilitate, don’t fix.

Also, Fulbright is really flexible, you don’t have a strict job description, so you have the freedom to shape your own experience and job description. Think about how you want your time to look. Tap into your hobbies and interests, volunteer at an organization or hospital, learn how to make art from a local, cook, create a club, or start a library. Explore as much as you want and make the most of your time.