Shannon DiStefano

K—12 Regional Manager, East

I’ve always believed that bridging the language gap can be the beginning of understanding other people and cultures. When I traveled to Thailand, I took a private lesson in Muay Thai, a martial art and Thailand’s national sport. The instructor spoke very little English; however, in an open-air training ring in the middle of the jungle, I was able to learn the basics as well as the Thai names for several kicks, punches, and other combative moves. The instructor’s pride in his craft, and his enthusiasm for teaching, despite the language barrier, is something I will never forget.

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