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| The 50 Malaysia Fulbright ETAs at the Prime Minister's for High Tea. January 2012. |
- quote on a greeting card
As I have mentioned in previous posts, there were 50
Fulbright ETAs who represented the United States in Malaysia for 2012. Among
the 50, 17 of us were placed in Terengganu, Malaysia. On a few occasions, all
50 ETAs were able to meet and connect, which generated great conversation, as
well as quite a good time.
However, most of my personal time was spent with the 17
Terengganu ETAs who were placed in districts along the coast of the South China
Sea. Our Terengganu cohort became known as the “T-gannu Crew.” Throughout
the course of the year, we spent a great deal of time together. Each of us had
a community of family and friends back at home to nurture connections with. However, beyond that, we were given the wonderful opportunity
to nurture friendships and connections with one another. We became one
another’s fellow ETAs, fellow teachers and fellow expatriates. We also became
one another’s support system and source of inspiration. Over the course of the
year, we became something of a Terengganu family. A simple weekend together
hanging out provided a sense of motivation, support, inspiration and sanity
in the midst of some uncomfortable, unfamiliar situations and experiences.
Together, the 17 of us were able to create an environment that felt like something similar “home."
In addition to my support system back home at America, I owe
my experience and accomplishments in Malaysia to my fellow Terengganu ETAs who
became dear friends. Thank you Kamayani, Kate, Katie, Morgan, Melissa, Julie,
Marquitta, Hannah, Nazeeha, Chelsea, Jonathan, Jordan, Nick, Michael and of
course, my roommate Christina.
Terima kasih kawan kawan! Cannot wait to see where we meet
next, and long live the roti rolls…
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