Avon Lake resident Amy Zhai Awarded Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship to Cambodia

Zhai will graduate from Hamilton College in May

Clinton, NY (05/09/2022) — Avon Lake resident and Hamilton College senior Amy Zhai has been awarded a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship. Here, Zhai, a psychology major, tells why she applied for this opportunity in Cambodia, and how Hamilton has prepared her.

Why did you choose to apply for the Fulbright ETA?

In high school I did a literacy project inspired by young learners in Cambodia. By returning as a Fulbright ETA, I will be able to connect and learn more and form a more mutual and lasting relationship with the urban Cambodian community.

What about teaching in another country is appealing to you?

Teaching in another country appeals to me because it allows for cultural exchange of traditions and ideas while sharing the common goal of education.

How did Hamilton prepare or motivate you to embark on this path?

Hamilton prepared me by offering opportunities to teach English to refugees and immigrants through the SHINE program. Hamilton also supported my other education-related pursuits with children at the Thea Bowman House, Double H, Generations Child Care, and the New England Center for Children that helped me learn and hone the soft skills necessary to be an effective classroom teacher.

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