🇺🇸✈️ 10 Things I Learned Moving to the U.S. as a Filipino Teacher

By: Mahal, A Filipina Teacher Living the American Dream (with lesson plans and lumpia!)

Isang pangarap ang makapag trabaho at manirahan abroad lalong-lalo na sa US. Moving to the U.S. was a dream come true — but it wasn’t all Disneyland and dollar bills. As a Filipino teacher who packed her chalk, courage, and culture, I had to face a whole new world. Yes maraming pagsubok when it comes to new classroom rules, new cultural norms, and yes, even new kinds of snow!

Here are 10 life lessons I learned along the way that might help you too — whether you’re planning to teach here someday or just curious about the experience. Let’s go!

☝️ 1. Classrooms Are More Casual, But More Structured

Sa Pilipinas, we’re used to being called “Ma’am” or “Sir” with respect that feels like royalty. In the U.S., students call you by your first name in some schools (“Hi, Ms. Mahal!”) and classrooms feel more relaxed. But don't be fooled — everything is run on a strict schedule. Bell rings? Lesson ends. Lunch? 30 minutes. Meetings? Start on time, no “Filipino Time” allowed. 😅

✌️ 2. Lesson Planning Is a Science Here

In the Philippines, I was used to flexible lesson plans. Dito sa U.S., you have to plan with objectives, standards, differentiation, assessments, and sometimes... even color-coded templates! Thankfully, marami namang templates online, and co-teachers often share resources. But the adjustment is real!

🤯 3. Culture Shock Is Real — And That’s Okay

I cried the first time I saw a 5th grader talk back to a teacher. Parang “Hala! Hindi puwede ’yan sa atin!” But here, students are taught to express themselves and question things. It’s not being disrespectful — it’s part of the culture. Learning when to speak up, how to ask questions, and how to navigate conflict was a big shift for me. Pero natutunan ko rin eventually… with deep breaths and hot chocolate.

🏫 4. Teacher Support Is Strong — Use It!

Dito sa U.S., teachers often work in teams or grade-level groups. May mga mentors, professional learning communities, and training opportunities. Hindi ka nag-iisa. I remember being assigned a “buddy teacher” who helped me set up my classroom, translate school lingo (like IEP, SEL, PLC!), and even invited me to my first American barbecue. 🍔💕

💵 5. Sweldo Is Better — But So Are the Expenses

Yes, totoo — mas mataas ang sahod dito as a teacher. Pero huwag kalimutan ang taxes, rent, insurance, at grocery bills (lalo na kung mahilig ka sa imported Pinoy goods like Bear Brand and Mang Tomas 😅). I learned to budget wisely, use apps like Ibotta, and shop at dollar stores for classroom needs. Tipid tips FTW!

🧊 6. Weather Affects Everything (Yes, Even Your Mood!)

Growing up with 2 seasons, I was not ready for winter. I slipped on ice, cried in the cold, and learned the hard way that you need layers, not just a jacket. But snow days? Bonus vacation! 🌨️ Just be sure to keep warm, hydrate, and know how to shovel. Yes you have to shovel buckets of snow.

🧑‍🏫 7. Students Come from Many Backgrounds

In one class, I had students from Mexico, Nigeria, Vietnam, and the U.S. – all in one room! It made me realize how important cultural sensitivity and inclusive teaching are.

I incorporated Filipino stories in class like Alamat ng Pinya and taught my students how to say “Magandang Umaga!” — and they loved it!

💬 8. Communication Is Key (Even If You Have an Accent)

I was so conscious about my accent before. But one day, a student said, “Ms. Mahal, I love your voice. You sound like you’re singing when you teach.” 🥹

That’s when I embraced it. Speak clearly, slow down when needed, and remember — your voice is powerful, even if it’s different.

🇵🇭 9. Filipino Values Shine Anywhere

Hard work. Respect. Faith. Bayanihan. These values helped me thrive here. I stayed late when needed, supported my co-teachers, and always led with heart. These are things we bring naturally as Filipinos.

Sabi nga nila, “You can take the teacher out of the Philippines, but you can’t take the Philippines out of the teacher.”

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❤️ 10. You’ll Miss Home, But You’ll Grow a New One Too

Homesickness is part of the deal. May mga gabi na umiiyak ako habang kumakain ng Lucky Me. But slowly, my classroom became my comfort zone. My students became my source of joy. And my small apartment? It felt like home — especially after I decorated it with capiz lanterns and banig pillows.

Moving to the U.S. as a Filipino teacher is not easy — but it’s worth it. You’ll stretch, stumble, grow, and glow. The path is paved with lesson plans, snow boots, and deep learnings, but it's also full of opportunities, new friendships, and personal breakthroughs.

If you’re dreaming of making the move, prepare well, stay grounded in your identity, and don’t forget your adobo recipes. Trust me, they’ll come in handy when homesickness hits. 😉

👉 Are you a Filipino teacher planning to move to the U.S.? Or already here and adjusting? Share your questions or kwento in the comments — let's support each other, mga ka-guro! ❤️

#education #teaching