November 2025 Edition
Welcome to the October–November edition of the Fulbright AMINEF ETA Monthly Highlights, where we celebrate the remarkable efforts and achievements of our English Teaching Assistants across Indonesia. This publication spotlights the impactful work ETAs are doing in their classrooms and communities. In October and November, the ETAs settled into their sites and new routines. This aligned with the changing of the seasons in the US and the cross-cultural exchange of America’s autumnal traditions.
AMINEF American Program and Communications Teams
We welcome your thoughts and reflections.
Share which stories stood out, what teaching approaches sparked ideas, or which activities you’d like to explore further. Feel free to write to us at communications@aminef.or.id. Selected feedback will be featured in the next edition—and you may even receive a small token of appreciation from us.
Hero’s Day and Leadership Camp
On November 10, ETA Jason Yan at SMK Krian 2 Sidoarjo had the opportunity to celebrate Hari Pahlawan Nasional (Hero’s Day) with his school community. With an early wake-up at 5 a.m., the entire school headed to a nearby village as the ceremony commenced to commemorate the fallen soldiers in the Battle of Surabaya. The.. Read More.
The Essence of American High School Celebrated in Padang
With the fall season upon Americans, ETA Navara Syed and her English Club students at SMKN 6 Padang celebrated the season by indulging in various cherished American traditions! Students have been curious about American culture, specifically the parts that cannot be seen via social media or Hollywood movies. With Thanksgiving approaching, Navara decided to bring.. Read More.
November marked an exciting milestone with the debut of the American Movie Club at SMK Negeri 3 Palangkaraya, led by Fulbright ETA Nia Dufeal. For its first session, Nia introduced students to the film “Finding Nemo,” creating an engaging and welcoming atmosphere for learners of all English levels. After the screening, she facilitated an interactive.. Read More.
Sing! Dance! Pose!: Celebrating Traditional Arts at School in Jambi
As ETA Payton Storey quickly learned after arriving at SMA Negeri 3 Kota Jambi, there is always a reason to party and display students’ hard work and rich cultural heritage. The OSIS (student council) at his school organized an extravagant festival in late October to celebrate National Batik Day and Language and Literature Month. The.. Read More.
Celebrating International Exchange with Thanksgiving Festivities
November 17–21 marked the celebration of International Education Week, an initiative founded by the US government to promote the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. To celebrate, ETA Ruby Mead—joined by her fellow ETA Sydney Grafals and EducationUSA Indonesia adviser Fadhil Adiyat—hosted a field trip to Makassar’s American Corner in Nipah Mall. Joined by.. Read More.
Into the US: Celebrating International Education Week and Exploring the History of Thanksgiving
When International Education Week, Thanksgiving, and Native American History Month all fall in the same month, there’s no shortage of opportunities for cultural exchange. This November, International Education Week took place from November 17 to 21, giving ETA Sydney Grafals the chance to collaborate closely with her site mate, ETA Ruby Mead, to host a.. Read More.
After observing classes for about two weeks, ETA Victoria Djou noticed that many students were confused by her sudden appearance at SMAN 5. Victoria only teaches eight English classes, so many students do not have the opportunity to speak with her in class. In addition, several students told her they felt too shy to visit.. Read More.
