Mikel Ortiz de Lataburu successfully completed a three-year exchange teaching program in Columbia, South Carolina from 1998 to 2001 as a Spanish teacher sponsored by VIF International Education on a J-1 visa. Mikel was selected from a large pool of applicants and became an accomplished educator, skilled cultural ambassador, and good representative for VIF. Mikel demonstrated adaptability in adjusting to a new culture, education system, and life responsibilities when first arriving in the United States. In conclusion, Mikel took on a significant challenge by becoming a VIF teacher and made contributions to students, school, and community.