A Journey Beyond Borders

Marguerite Dimgba's love for France and its culture was the seed to a lifelong career in education.

Author: Paul Dang

When Marguerite Dimgba pursued her undergraduate degree in French and political science, teaching was far from her mind. She envisioned herself as an ambassador to France or an interpreter, blending her linguistic and political passions.

"I loved the French language, lived in France, loved the culture and loved the people. I wanted kids to experience that, too."

Marguerite never anticipated that teaching would become her way of becoming a cultural ambassador, turning her passion for French language and culture into a bridge for her students.

As a high school French teacher in Hilton, N.Y., Marguerite was determined to take the language beyond the bindings of textbooks. Inspired by two teachers whose immersive teaching methods had shaped her own education, she sought to bring the richness of French language and culture into her classroom.

Teaching in New York provided her the opportunity to organize international trips to Montreal and Quebec City, where her students attended bilingual plays, explored French art and partnered with local high schoolers for cultural exchanges.

"Some of these kids had never left the country. And even though it was Canada, being in Quebec felt like Europe."

While her job-on-paper was to teach French, her true mission was fostering cultural appreciation.

“I just want them to be a well-rounded citizen and respectful of people's cultures and the world out there.”

Marguerite has since elevated her education career to a mentorship role. As a TeachNY Career Coach, she strongly encourages prospective teachers to consider long-term careers in education that extend beyond the classroom. While career paths beyond teaching may not always be obvious to the public, they are plentiful.

"There are pathways within teaching I never even knew about. I had never heard about a teacher on special assignment, a teacher leader or mentor."

New York teachers also enjoy unique benefits that distinguish the profession from other states, a fact Marguerite takes pride in.

"I can tell you that we have one of the best pension systems and some of the best benefits here in New York State."

As a TeachNY coach, she relates to the callers who are interested in teaching, having once been an undergraduate who didn’t initially pursue a degree in education. With years of experience behind her, she brings a deep understanding of the career opportunities and financial aid resources unique to New York — many of which Marguerite says are underutilized simply due to lack of awareness.

If you're interested in teaching New York and all the cultural and career opportunities that can start in the classroom, schedule a free call with a TEACH New York Career Coach.