Day 10 in Rivera: Finding the “Why” in Rivera
- Kevin Michael Agtarap
- Jun 26, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 30, 2025
Today was all about reconnecting with the heart of education-the “why” behind what we do. We made our way back to CeRP, Rivera’s Regional Teacher Training Center, but this time, it was to visit our other incredible host, Milton, in his teacher preparation class. Milton works with students who are on their path to becoming English teachers, and seeing them in action was nothing short of inspiring.
One by one, these future educators shared, in English, why they chose this profession. It wasn’t about money, recognition, or an easy path, it was about making a difference. One student’s words really stuck with me: “Being a teacher means you are helping shape a human being.” Powerful, right? That simple yet profound statement reminded me how much responsibility, and privilege, we carry as educators, no matter where we teach.
We also had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with the students. Naturally, they were curious about what teaching is like in the U.S. But what really hit home was when one student bravely asked, “Here in Rivera, sometimes we feel defeated and ask ourselves… why do we want to do this? What keeps you going?”
That question could’ve come from any teacher’s lounge back home. It’s universal! That feeling of burnout, of wondering if the work is worth it. I was honest. I told them I’ve asked myself the same thing many times. But I also shared what keeps me going:
My students — Their growth, their energy, their curiosity.
The support from my administrators — Knowing your leadership has your back makes a huge difference.
My colleagues — The ones who listen, who lift you up on the hard days, who remind you that you’re not alone.
I’m lucky to have all three. It doesn’t make teaching easy, but it makes it possible, and meaningful.
Afterward, we enjoyed more student presentations about Uruguay and their city of Rivera. You could feel the pride they have for their culture. One of Mirian's student, Vazrab, performed several songs that had the whole audience clapping, singing along, and even dancing. His energy was infectious, and it turned a regular class visit into a mini-celebration.
Later, we crossed over the border into Brazil for lunch. I have to admit I had one of the tastiest chicken dishes I’ve ever had, along with an ice-cold Guaraná. If you’ve never tried it, Guaraná is a popular Brazilian soda. Light, refreshing, and kind of like ginger ale with a tropical twist.
Our day didn’t stop there. In the afternoon, we visited Milton’s middle school class, where he teaches English to 7th graders. His students were eager and full of energy. We each had the opportunity to share our presentations, and I added a little incentive. I told the class to pay close attention because there would be prizes for those who could answer questions at the end. Let me tell you, candy, bookmarks, and stickers are the universal language of excitement! The students loved it, and I loved leaving behind small pieces of home with them.
The biggest takeaway from today? Whether you’re teaching in Rivera, Uruguay, or back in the United States, the core of this profession is the same. The challenges, the doubts, the victories, and most importantly, the desire to make an impact on young people’s lives transcend borders.
The truth is, teaching is hard. But hearing those students in Rivera talk about their dreams of becoming teachers, seeing their eyes light up when they talked about shaping lives, reminded me that the work matters — everywhere!
And that’s exactly why I keep going.
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