August was a collection of “firsts” for both SMAN 1 Seluma and ETA Conor Jackman. For starters, it is the first time SMAN 1 Seluma has hosted an ETA through the AMINEF program. In fact, it is the first time an ETA has been hosted by a school in Bengkulu province! On the flip side, this is Conor’s first experience co-teaching English and living at a senior high school.

His first time in the classroom with SMAN 1 students Conor introduced himself and told the students a bit about his background. But there was no time to waste so they jumped right into challenging topics including conditionals and future tenses! Many of the teachers also expressed interest in learning and practicing English. Our first meeting of the “Conversations with Conor” club included hilarious introductions through the activity “two truths and a lie.” It was a blast!

It’s only fitting that Conor’s first weeks in Seluma coincided with the renowned Bengkulu Festival called Tabut. Tabut is a ten-day celebration of the Islamic New Year consisting of festival fare, carnival rides, and dance competitions. Dance troupes from all over Bengkulu province dance a mix of traditional and modern styles in beautiful, ornate costumes. Conor has been fortunate enough to attend three times with current students, teachers, and alumni of SMAN 1 Seluma.

The first month has come and gone but Conor is incredibly excited to continue learning, teaching and sharing with the incredible staff, students and faculty of SMAN 1 Seluma!

Conor Jackman is currently teaching at SMAN 1 Seluma, Bengkulu