Sharing Cultures and Building Connections

Recently, I had the privilege of visiting the 8th Liceum – VIII Liceum Ogólnokształcące im. Stanisława Wyspiańskiego. The purpose of our visit was to introduce the students to different cultures. I presented my home country, Armenia, while my colleague, Sihem from France, showcased her country. Together, we aimed to give the students a glimpse of our heritage, traditions, and history.

The Classes and the Students

I conducted three classes about Armenia and assisted Sihem with her two classes about France. The students were teenagers, and their reactions varied—some were highly engaged, while others were more reserved, which is only natural at that age. Despite this, their overall energy was positive, and some students showed an unexpected level of interest in my culture, which was incredibly rewarding to see.

Preparing for the Day

We came prepared with carefully designed presentations to capture the students’ attention and make the sessions as engaging as possible. The effort paid off, as the visuals and stories helped bring our countries to life for the students.

What Stood Out

One of the most memorable aspects of the visit was watching students who were genuinely invested in learning about Armenia. It’s always a joy to see curiosity spark in someone, especially when it’s about a lesser-known country like mine.

The Bigger Picture

These visits aren’t just about presenting facts—they’re about broadening perspectives. While countries like France and Germany are well-known, introducing students to places like Armenia can help them appreciate the diversity of the world. It’s a small but meaningful step toward fostering understanding and curiosity about cultures beyond the mainstream.

One thing became clear during the visit: students appreciate these sessions as they break the monotony of their daily routines. The warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the school staff also made our job easier. Starting at 8 in the morning was tough, but with coffee, sweets, and kind gestures from the management, we felt energized and appreciated.

A Memorable Moment

I emphasized during my presentations that learning history is essential to ensuring that it doesn’t repeat itself. It was heartening to see both students and teachers resonate with this idea, creating a shared moment of understanding and agreement.

I would absolutely love to visit more schools in the future. While the early mornings can be challenging, the rewards of sharing cultures and seeing students engage make it all worthwhile. The energy you bring to the classroom will be reflected in the students. Stay positive and be enthusiastic, and the students will mirror that energy. It’s a rewarding experience that leaves a lasting impact on both you and them.