Teaching around the world (Issue 16, 2011)
Salmon Pandarangga came to La Trobe University from Indonesia to complete a Master of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) in 2010. Salmon was excited to undertake this course as it is highly relevant to his job as an English teacher in his home country.
Salmon found adjusting to life in Australia fairly easy as he had a lot of support from friends and La Trobe University staff.
‘Whenever I needed help, staff and friends were always ready to help me, or they would at least give me some advice to solve my issues. I think I probably just needed to adjust myself with cultures and lifestyles in Australia,’ says Salmon.
Salmon really enjoys his life in Australia and always undertakes activities to keep him busy and entertained. He frequently catches up with friends for a meal and a drink in the Central Business District (CBD) of Melbourne. Salmon has visited many interesting places, including some of Victoria’s famous beaches, museums, shopping centres and more. However, one of the most memorable activities Salmon has participated in was a parade through the city. During the parade he joined other Indonesians to celebrate and show off the Indonesian culture to the rest of Melbourne.
‘In that parade, there were lots of people from around the world with their traditional and unique costumes. Some of the participants did performances such dancing and singing. It was memorable because it was the first time I saw and joined people from around the world with their different, unique cultures. It showed the diversity and togetherness of those of who live in Australia.’
Salmon has had the opportunity to see first-hand Australians’ love of sport. The most outstanding cultural events for him have been watching the cricket at the renowned and beloved MCG and watching Australian football (AFL) on the big screen at Federation Square.
‘There were thousands of people who came to watch the games. It was the first time I had seen thousands of people. These two big events showed how much Aussie people love sport,’ Salmon says while remembering the events.
Salmon was also amazed when he went with his friends to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks on the banks of the Yarra River in Melbourne’s city. But the most touching social experience was when he was invited to Christmas lunch by an Australian family.
‘It was sad because it was my first Christmas miles away from my family, yet it was a wonderful experience because I had a good opportunity to experience the Christmas celebration in an Aussie family.’
Salmon really enjoyed the La Trobe Open Day because it allowed him to meet other international students from across the world and share information about cultures, customs and beliefs. It also taught Salmon to respect differences.
‘I think the community on campus is very multicultural, as there are lots of different groups of people from different places, including China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam etc. Even though it is a multicultural campus with many different backgrounds, each of the groups live in harmony. I have never heard of or seen any violence on campus.’
During his time here so far, Salmon has volunteered his time and expertise to teach Indonesian to students who wish to learn.
‘These practical studies complement indirectly my theoretical studies on campus. The theory of TESOL I have learnt can be indirectly applicable when I teach Indonesian to local students.’
Salmon has a great future ahead of him, he is planning to travel back to Indonesia after completing his course and become a competent and fully qualified English teacher.
‘My plans are to teach and train my students to be competent in English and I also want to have my own library where all kinds of people can come and read. I believe reading opens a window of knowledge and helps the reader to see the world around us through a book.’