08/04/2026
Yesterday was J-Day, a celebration of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program and the thousands of exchange visitors who build bridges between cultures through education, learning, and shared experiences.
Before joining the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, Ángel Rubio taught in Venezuela, Peru, and Ecuador, gaining valuable experience working with students from diverse backgrounds and strengthening his passion for education.
Through the International Teacher Exchange Services (ITES) program, Ángel has continued that journey in the United States, where he has expanded his teaching skills, explored innovative educational approaches, and grown both personally and professionally.
Along the way, he has shared his language and culture with students and colleagues while embracing new perspectives and experiences of his own.
"The J-1 program has been an incredible adventure and one of the most meaningful chapters of my life. It has allowed me to grow tremendously both personally and professionally, learn innovative teaching strategies, and share my language and culture while embracing a new one."
For educators like Ángel, cultural exchange goes beyond the classroom. It creates opportunities to build lifelong friendships, strengthen communities, and demonstrate the power of education to connect people across cultures.
Exchange Programs - U.S. Department of State
