Noelle Brooks graduated from the University of Central Missouri in 2018 with a degree in Spanish and International Studies. During her time as a student, she developed a love for learning about other cultures and international education. She was fortunate enough to study abroad 5 times which ultimately inspired her to apply to Fulbright as an ETA.
Since spending her Fulbright in Mexico, Noelle has decided to permanently reside in the country and is currently working as a Program Director at an educational organization. In her current role, she is able to further carry out her passion by ensuring students’ unique educational needs are met by implementing creative and dynamic strategies in the classroom. The title of Noelle’s presentation is: Exploring the Vibrant City of Ah-Kim-Pech.
During this presentation I will share my story of the challenges and rewards I experienced as a Fulbright ETA in a small traditional city in the Southeastern region of Mexico. As a Fulbrighter teaching English in a community that speaks both Spanish and Maya, it was challenging finding a balance between teaching students English and empowering them in their native language.
Through discussions, debates, and cultural activities, my students and I were able to appreciate the positives and negatives of our cultures and societies while tackling tough issues such as colonialism and immigration. We will explore the rich culture of this small city, especially its Mayan culture that is still ever so present.
Muhammad Fajri Romdhoni is an Indonesian registered architect who graduated from Parahyangan University and received his master’s degree from Bandung Institute of Technology in Architectural Engineering and heritage building. He received another Master of Arts in Architecture and a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas (KU), specializing in Urban design and city planning.
During his study at KU, he was active in student KU Fulbright Scholar Association (KUFSA), including the Indonesian Student Association at KU. He has been active in architectural works in Indonesia as well as teaching Architecture at the University of Sriwijaya in South Sumatra, Indonesia. He has a keen interest in applied architecture technology, digital architecture, spatial morphology, GIS, Urban Design, and heritage and cultural architecture. The title of Muhammad’s presentation is: My KU Fulbright PhD Journey, and My Study of Urban Geometry.
My research study involves the Indonesian government’s plan to relocate its capital city from a megapolitan city Jakarta on Java Island to a different region in East Kalimantan. There are many reasons to relocate to the capital city. One of them is that this will geometrically serve the center of Indonesia to promote equal growth and stability among all Indonesian regions.
My background as an architect has made me aware that among Indonesia’s diversity as an archipelago nation, there are apparent variations and differences among ethnicities, language, culture, and architectural styles. However, studying regional differences in city layout and form is still very rare. The findings in my research contributes to the research of urban form and helps current and future Indonesian cities with their urban development.
Noelle and Muhammad will share their Fulbright stories during our free, virtual Fulbright Forum. Registration required.