Q&A: Kensington Native Talks About Teaching Abroad

Patch talked to her about the application process and what she's most looking forward to:

Kensington Patch: How did you learn about the Fulbright ETA and what made you want to apply?

Emma Cogan: I heard about the Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship through the National Fellowship Office at my university (Loyola University Maryland). Ever since I was young however, I'd loved different cultures. I used to read Atlases, collected globes and countless issues of National Geographic. I aced my school's geography bees -- I suppose I've always had a bit of travel bug, been a wander lust, and had a deep interest in other cultures. The Fulbright just seemed quite natural as a way to follow, develop, and enrich my interest in other cultures.

Patch: Are you excited to teach in Malaysia? Have you ever traveled or studied abroad before? Do you speak the language? Are you excited to learn?

EC: I studied abroad in Scotland in Fall 2010. I am absolutely thrilled to be traveling to Malaysia-it will be my first time in Asia! I was drawn to Malaysia because it is such a melting pot of cultures-ethnic Malays, Chinese Indians, Muslim, Buddhists, Hindus. I've heard the food is absolutely delicious as well! I do not speak Malay, but I will be studying this summer/fall and know that we get an orientation once we arrive.

Patch: What do you hope to teach the students, other than English of course? Do you have any activities or events you'd like to apply to their schooling?

EC: The Fulbright program is about cultural exchange and ambassadorship as much as it is about scholarship. I will be in a rural area where many Malaysians may not be well-acquainted with Americans on a personal level. I would like to portray Americans as a considerate, respectful, eager, and curious group of individuals. On a more specific note, I do know we work for about 20 hours in addition to our school time with community activities. I am a big fan of debating, and I think that would be a great way to practice language skills if I have the chance.

Patch: What do you hope to get out of the ETA yourself?

EC: I really just hope to experience it as fully as I can-to not take any opportunities for granted, to feel like I've wasted any time there-to say "Yes" to every experience possible. I hope to grow and develop as a person, to be a more global citizen, and to bring back an informed and unique perspective on the world to the American people. I hope it will give me time to think more seriously about what I want to do with my life, and what sort of career I'd like to have.

Patch: Are you nervous about it? Anything you're worried about?

EC: I don't leave until January -- so it seems quite far off to be nervous already. Part of me however, is worried about perceptions of Americans abroad, and perhaps finding out what behavior/customs are appropriate for me as a woman in such a different culture from my own. Adjusting to a very warm climate, and just being so far from home are also challenges-however I am eager to take them on!

Patch: Do you feel prepared? How did Loyola prepare you for this?

EC: I have some experience teaching/tutoring English as a second language, so I feel somewhat prepared in that respect, but overall I know I have a lot to learn.