Joseph studied economics and political science at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota.  He taught English and American civics to adult language learners in North Minneapolis last summer.  In the classroom, Joseph welcomed newcomers, shared his idea of America, and connected across cultural differences.  He looks forward to continuing this work as a newcomer to Indonesia.

Joseph chose Indonesia due to its plurality of people and peoples as well as the opportunity to develop connections to one community on the archipelago.  He intends to create civic space for community members to share their stories for the purpose of furthering Senator Fulbright’s goal of international understanding.  Joseph will advance this goal while living in North Sumatra and co-teaching at SMAN 1 Padangsidempuan.