Fulbright Check-In

Today, I checked in with USIEF (United States-India Educational Foundation) and was briefed on my post in Bengaluru. A car picked me up at my cousin's place and I was taken to the office.


My mind was racing with so many thoughts. As we pulled up to the gates to the office, I felt like an official diplomat. I got out of the car and was escorted to the Fulbright offices. There I was met by the New Delhi team and was informed of the several logistics of my stay for the next 6 months.


I was able to meet the Executive Director and the Senior Program Officer and the team that makes this all happen for Fulbright teachers. I was amazed at how calm and easygoing everyone was and how truly dedicated they are to ensuring that our stay in India is "first class". I even learned how the team had completed their own mini-participatory action research project by growing their own organic garden in the backyard of their offices. Every time there is a harvest, an email goes out so that all the staff can bring their bags to collect the harvest. What a nice way to build camaraderie and encourage sustainability.


You may be wondering what John and the kids did while I was away. Think no further. John was a super star. He took the kids by metro to the Bahá'í temple to help Ashram understand our thinking about why we chose Ashram for his name. Unfortunately, it was closed and so were two other temples. Regardless, the kids had an adventure, played on some playgrounds, and got to ride the metro. John managed this all on his own. I am impressed. Are you?




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