Cynthia, Indonesia

My name is Cynthia Felia Chandra, but most people call me Cynthia. Originating from Indonesia, my current role is as an English Teacher at English First in Surabaya, Indonesia, with my classes bustling with learners aged 7–15 years. The journey began seven months postgraduation from Petra Christian University in Surabaya, Indonesia. It is my belief that the most effective learning occurs through play, which is why every lesson I design is aimed to be as fun and engaging as possible.
Although relatively new to teaching, my passion for it has deep roots. As a child, I would sneak peeks at parenting magazines and tune into the Nanny Jo reality show, absorbing insights into managing children’s behaviours with kindness and understanding. These early influences shaped my approach to teaching, emphasising gentle guidance over strict discipline. In practice, this translates into a system of rules, consequences and rewards in my classroom. For example, not speaking English results in a loss of a star, a simple yet effective reminder of the importance of immersion in language learning. This technique is a way for me to communicate the importance of consequences for one’s actions and the significance of adhering to classroom rules.
I also adopt a friendlier approach with my students. This perspective is based on the observation that children and teenagers often rebel against strict authority, preferring to be treated with respect and as equals. For me, this approach has proven effective in building a more positive and cooperative classroom environment.
Choosing to pursue a career in teaching stems from a deeply personal place. This profession offers opportunities to learn and to share knowledge, enriching both my life and the lives of my students in profound ways. There is an indescribable joy in witnessing the moment a concept clicks for someone, or when a shared story sparks curiosity. This is why this path is so incredibly rewarding for me.