International Baccalaureate (IB) Inquiry Research Design teacher Linde Barrett is no stranger to international travel. Last year, she led a group of IB students to Vietnam, where they immersed themselves in local culture, creativity, and community service. Now, Barrett’s passion for global exploration will take her to Algeria for a 10-month fellowship with the U.S. Department of State under the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Barrett was chosen as one of 146 fellows to serve as a cultural ambassador, teaching English to Algerian ministries. Aside from the professional experience, the opportunity offers the realization of a long-held personal dream.

“I’ve always wanted to live and work in another country, to immerse myself in a different culture, even if just for a short period,” Barrett said. “This program allows me to do just that while representing the United States and teaching English.”

Barrett will work in Algiers, Algeria, in close collaboration with several government ministries, helping officials improve their English speaking skills, which will allow them to participate more in international conferences and training. She will also teach English to several journalists selected by the U.S. Embassy’s press team to help them develop their communication abilities.

Barrett credited her time at school and the rigorous training she received through the IB Program in preparing her for this opportunity.

“The IB program at Gulliver equipped me with 21st-century skills and an international perspective on global issues, which were crucial in my selection for this fellowship,” Barrett said. “The selection process was intense, with multiple interviews and evaluations, but the professional development and workshops I experienced at Gulliver gave me a strong foundation.”

While she’s excited, she is also cognizant of the challenges she may face.

“I will be working mostly with Algerian men in a Muslim country where certain cultural norms differ from those in the U.S. For example, men do not typically shake hands with women, which is something I’ll need to be mindful of,” Barrett said. “I’ve been preparing by learning about the culture, studying history, and even taking French lessons, as it is widely spoken there.”

Her journey to Algeria is deeply rooted in her experiences on campus. Barrett recalls transformative moments such as last year’s trip to Vietnam, where students worked on sustainable cultural projects.

“The trip to Vietnam was incredible. It allowed us to experience global issues firsthand, something we emphasize in the IB program,” Barrett said.

Barrett looks forward to returning home and sharing her experiences.

“I’m taking a year’s leave of absence with the hope of returning to Gulliver and using what I’ve learned here to inspire my students and colleagues,” Barrett said.