Susi Secondary Educators Program

Once in a Life Time Experience

By Abu Mohammad Jobayer, Bangladesh

Embarking on a journey from Dhaka to Amherst, Massachusetts, for a summer program is a thrilling adventure filled with anticipation and excitement. The journey began with a grueling 26-hour trek from Dhaka to Chicago. The anticipation of finally reaching the destination in Amherst was palpable, only to be met with the harsh reality of a canceled flight from Chicago to Hartford. As a first-time visitor to the US, navigating this unfamiliar terrain filled with uncertainty and worry seemed daunting.

Amidst the chaos of the airport, my traveler’s fortunes took a turn for the better when I encountered colleagues Nur, Nadeesha, and Ayed from our summer SUSI Secondary Teachers program. In the midst of exhaustion and worry, the comfort of those faces and the solidarity of shared experiences provided a much-needed source of solace and support.

This summer in Amherst was an immersive dive into American history, culture, politics, and academia. The program balanced rigorous academic sessions with enriching visits to various historical and cultural sites.

Beyond academics, Amherst’s unique charm was unforgettable. The nostalgic sound of the train whistle, the quirky high beds in the dorms, and the vibrant community at Valentine Hall, Amherst College, added a special touch to the experience.

Beyond academics, Amherst’s unique charm was unforgettable. The nostalgic sound of the train whistle, the quirky high beds in the dorms, and the vibrant community at Valentine Hall added a special touch to the experience.

Community service at Not Bread Alone and Lauren Kitchen was deeply fulfilling. I cherished the family visit, which involved shopping, exploring local attractions, cooking meals together, and even kayaking.

Exploring cities like Boston, New York, Tucson, and Washington DC was a lifetime experience. Visiting MIT and Harvard made my US trip complete, while hiking the Grand Canyon and seeing the US-Mexico border were incredible highlights.

Most importantly, everything would have been meaningless without my lovely friends who shared every moment with me. Thank You So Much Aziz, Umid, Ayed, Austeja, Jorge, Se Eun Cho, Claire, Deddy, Andrea, Nur, Eszter, Giannoula, Dammaris, Jean-Luc, Magdalena, Nadeesha, Ines, Ruben, and Vivienne.

Thanks in large part to the exceptional support and dedication of the ITD staff. Their commitment to excellence and kindness made every aspect of the program unforgettable. Academic Director, Bruce Watson, stands out as a pillar of knowledge and wisdom. His guidance and shared experiences enriched my understanding beyond the classroom. Katie Lazdwoski, the heart of the program, embodied warmth and organizational prowess. Her leadership ensured smooth operations and a supportive environment for all participants. Mark Protti’s constant smile and caring demeanor brightened each day. And who could forget Eadgardo, whose humor brought levity to every situation. Also, thanks to Jessie, Stephen, Rafi, Yanara, Immy, Celso, Tuxy, and Raileigh.

Beyond their roles, they became friends and mentors, shaping not just my academic journey but also my personal growth during my time in US.

To the ITD staff- thank you for your excellence, kindness, and for making this summer one of the most enriching experiences of my life.