Mary, a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA), is co-teaching English at SMAN 1 Manggar, Kepulauan Bangka Belitung.

Mary graduated from the University of Georgia with degrees in history and mathematics. Experiential learning opportunities, including working in a historical shipyard in Connecticut and learning to scuba dive, helped her discover a passion for ocean conservation and coastal resilience. As a student, she researched plastic waste disposal and explored coal-carrying shipwrecks.

Mary first encountered Indonesia while researching the history of religion in Jawa. She was struck by the country’s diversity in geography and culture. As an ETA, she fosters relationships between her students, their community, and the local environment.

She hopes to connect with her host community using her interests, which include sewing her own clothing, reading mystery novels, hosting dinner parties, and playing various sports.