Rona Aguila

Meet Rona Aguila from the Philippines

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What has been your most memorable cultural experience so far?

One of my most memorable experiences was organizing “A Taste of Filipino Culture” where we served traditional Filipino dishes for breakfast. It was so heartwarming to see my colleagues and students enjoy the food while learning about the stories behind each dish. Another activity I truly cherish was the cultural exchange of letters—my students in the Philippines wrote heartfelt messages to my students here in the U.S. It became such a meaningful way to build connections across cultures, even without physically meeting each other.

What has been your favorite part about living in the US?

My favorite part has been the opportunity to grow professionally. I’ve been able to attend world-class seminars and trainings that have really enriched my teaching practice. I also successfully completed an online course through Ohio State University, which was a huge accomplishment for me. Beyond academics, I’ve also enjoyed exploring the diversity of communities here and seeing how welcoming people are to cultural exchange.

What has been the most challenging?

The most challenging part has been adjusting to differences in classroom culture and expectations. As a teacher, I had to quickly adapt to new systems, classroom management approaches, and teaching strategies. At first, it was overwhelming, but I’m grateful because it pushed me to grow as an educator and made me more flexible and resilient.

Do you have tips for your fellow J-1 teachers?

My tip would be to embrace every opportunity—whether big or small—that comes your way. Say “yes” to cultural exchange activities, professional development, and community events, because these are the experiences that make your stay truly meaningful. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’ll be surprised at how many people are willing to support you. Most importantly, share your culture proudly because it creates bridges of understanding and friendship.

What has been your students’ favorite cultural exchange activity so far?

While my students were not allowed to directly participate in the Filipino breakfast activity, we still found meaningful ways to celebrate culture together. One highlight was when we took part in an Asian cultural activity where they learned a traditional Filipino dance and got to see our national costume. The students were so curious and excited, and it made me proud to showcase my heritage. For them, it wasn’t just about dancing—it was about appreciating the beauty of cultural traditions and seeing how diverse and interconnected our world really is.

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