Bilingual and Beyond

My journey as a Foreign English Teacher began in January 2023, when I moved to Taiwan under the Taiwan Foreign English Teacher Program (TFETP). Stepping into a new educational system was both exciting and challenging, as I transitioned from teaching in the Philippines to working with non-native English learners in a different cultural and linguistic environment. My first placement was at Toucheng Junior High School in Yilan County, where I taught English and had the unique opportunity to also teach Marine and Ocean Science, utilizing the course I graduated in college. This experience allowed me to integrate content and language learning, helping students understand subject matter while developing their English skills in meaningful and practical ways. 

Teaching junior high school students helped me develo strategies to make lessons more engaging, interactive, and accesible. I focused on simplifying instructions, using visuals, and incorporating activities that encouraged participation, knowing that confidence plays a big role in language learning. One of the highlights of my time in Yilan was training students for the Yilan County English Easy Go (EEG) English Singing Competition, where I was able to combine my passion for music with teaching. Seeing students perform with confidence and pride was one of the most rewarding experiences in my career. 

Currently, I am teaching at Yong Sing Elementary School in Changhua, where I work with younger learners. This transition has allowed me to further refine my teaching approach by making more dynamic, creative, and student-centered. I incorporate games, songs, and hands-on activities to keep students engaged while building their foundational English skills. Teaching at the elementary level has reinforced the importance of patience, encouragement, and creating a positive learning environment where students feel safe to try and express themselves. 

Throughout my journey as a Foreign English Teacher, I have grown not only professionally but also personally. Collaborating with local teachers has strengthened my ability to adapt and co-teach effectively, while also deepening my understanding of different teaching styles and classroom cultures. More importanly, working with non-native English learners continues to be a fulfilling experiencve, as I witnes their progress, confidence, and enthusiasm for learning. This journey has shaped me into a more flexible, creative, and culturally responsive educator, committed to making English learning both meaningful and enjoyable for my students.