Young, a grad student and in America for the first time, Anany Chacon, from Celaya, Guanajuato Mexico is devoted to her job  teaching as a 2007 Fulbright Teaching Assistant at the University of Arkansas at Monticello.

   “It started when I was searching the internet for job opportunities which I often do and I came across the position, went in for the interview and became accepted,” Chacon said.

   Chacon spent one year in Japan as a teaching assistant as well.

   “It was so much fun, I spent two days with a Japanese family and was able to learn more about their traditions which was a great learning experience,” Chacon said.

   Chacon’s original plan didn’t include teaching; her degree is in international business and foreign trade. Prior to graduation she received an invitation to teach at a high school and it was then she developed a love for teaching and left her degree aside.

   “My favorite part about being here at UAM is my classes and the students, they are so eager to learn and they really participate in class,” Chacon said.

   When asked what her least favorite part about being in America Chacon’s face expressed misery, “I don’t have a car yet and it’s about to drive me crazy,” Chacon said.

   Chacon becomes homesick at times, missing her family, friends, and Mexican food.     “I’ve tried Ameca’s and it’s very good but you haven’t had real, true Mexican food unless you have traveled to Mexico,” Chacon said.

  Chacon said she loved the city of Monticello but was used to going out with friends in Mexico for coffee and movies.

    Aside from her job Chacon enjoys dancing, reading, going to movies and working out at the school gym.

   “I love playing the piano, I learned how to play at the age of six and I just love music in general,” Chacon said.

   When the year ends, she plans to go back to Mexico but wants to apply for a T.A. position in Europe, she is currently studying French.

  “I love teaching, especially in other countries which I will continue to do,” Chacon said.

   “I feel very happy to be here, I can learn from my students and I hope they will learn from me as well about my culture and way of life,” Chacon said. 

   “The Fulbright Scholars express impressive credentials and bring prestige to the campus as well. This is the university’s third year having the Fulbright Teaching Assistants and their presence equals positive,” Mark Spencer, dean of School of Arts and Humanities, said.