Torch, Fall 1999

Emily Davis ' work at Santiago Christian School in the Dominican Republic Left a lasting impact on her and her pupils-so much so that she recently accepted a fifth grade teaching position at the school. lesson of persevering with God's call, assured that He will complete His work. Although their experiences were not as dramatic, many returning students agree that teaching interculturally has unique challenges. Dunham, who taught fifth grade in the Dominican Republic, was surprised at the low reading and critical thinking skills of her students. She was continually looking for creative ways to teach thinking skills and improve reading ability. Mansfield found it difficult to teach in Cameroon with the lack of resources available. Little things, like not being able to buy masking tape or make visual aides, make a big difference in the classroom. "I learned to improvise because of lack of supplies," Mansfield said. "I didn't have the resources of my professors or our library. It was just me and the textbook!" Many who return from their journey agree that the experience is life-changing. Everything that is familiar and safe is suddenly gone and replaced with a different language, cultural norms, smells, modes of transportation-the list is endless. Dunham realized that being away from Cedarville left more time for the task at hand. "I was at such an incredible advantage by being away from [Cedarville], in that I could totally focus on my student teaching and ministering to my students.... There was a lot of time for me to reflect on my life and career as a future