ETA Kush Mansuria spent his first month in Indonesia doing a lot of introductions and a substantial amount of orientation and training. After arriving at his school in Kudus, Central Java, Kush participated in a small ceremony with his headmaster, co-teachers, and students to symbolize welcoming him into the school community.

After his first week, Kush went to Depok, West Java for orientation with his fellow ETAs for almost three weeks. There he took part in different training sessions about English education and practiced teaching with his co-teacher. He also studied Indonesian for four hours a day to build a strong foundation of the national language. In between teaching sessions and practicing Indonesian, Kush had the opportunity to learn about Indonesia’s culture, history, economy, and politics. He also participated in a celebration of the 74th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence.

Finally, at the end of August, Kush returned to his school and began teaching with his three co-teachers, Ibu Rita, Ibu Ristina, and Ibu Ima. For one of his classes, he presented a brief history of the United States and introduced diversity in America through his own family story. In the coming months, Kush is looking forward to helping students improve their English and being involved in school and community events.

Kush Mansuria is currently teaching at SMK Raden Umar Said, Kudus, Central Java