Gaining Cross-cultural Teaching Experience in Indonesia

In June, education major Melissa Stalman ’15 of Janesville, Wisconsin, found herself teaching in Indonesia on a one-month trip sponsored by Sekolah Pelita Harapan (SPH), international Christian school system.

Stalman split her time between teaching summer school kindergarten and touring Indonesia. She was able to teach a diverse group of students from Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Indonesian backgrounds.

“It was a blast getting to work with the kids,” Stalman said. “They were so fun and energetic. We also got to explore different parts of Indonesia.”

Stalman collaboratd with other college students, gained teaching experience in a full-time setting, and worked with teachers of another culture. While touring, Stalman was exposed to a culture far from her own. She was able to ride an elephant, visit a Mosque in a predominantly Muslim country, experience different forms of transportation, and learn new dining customs.

SPH has various campuses throughout Indonesia. Excluding airfare, the organization covers the entire cost of the trip, including housing, food, ground transportation, and touring activities.

Stalman’s advisor Dr. Pete Post ’74, associate professor of education, described her trip “as a way to step out of one’s comfort zone and travel internationally.”

“I just think this is a great story and one that could lead to additional opportunities,” Post said.

“Being able to immerse myself in this setting for a month was awesome,” Stalman said. “It was a great experience and helped me grow as a future teacher and person.”

Trinity alumnae Leanne Koetje ’10 and Holli Moote ’13 both teach through Sekolah Pelita Harapan.