In August 2022, Stella Hitiroglou, Teacher of English at the American Farm School in Thessaloniki, departed for Arizona to participate in the FDAI Program at the Center for Advanced Studies in Global Education, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ. Her research project concentrated on
Following that life-changing experience, Stella has been taken initiatives to organize series of educational exchanges for her students. Since her return to school, she created a Middle School Club (open to the senior class - 9th grade) in which students would learn about studies and working abroad, and develop skills that foster intercultural communication, collaboration and mutual understanding. During the first year of the program, and in collaboration with UK Fulbright Fellow David Ashmore, Stella organized a visit to Birmingham for a group of students, who visited the University of Birmingham School among other events. This year, and in collaboration with the Finnish Fulbright Fellow Annu Ojala, the group visited the Viikki Teacher Training School at the University of Helsinki. In turn, the American Farm School had the pleasure of welcoming students of the University of Birmingham School. During these reciprocal visits, the students attend lessons, interact with local students, and participate in a series of activities that aims to foster mutual understanding and enhance knowledge of each others' cultures and education systems. At the same time, as the students are accompanied by members of faculty, the teachers as well have the opportunity to discuss with colleagues on matters of education that concern them.
