Howdy from Jagna! A Texan’s Tale of Food, Nature and Teaching

When I first arrived in Jagna, Bohol, Philippines, I had no idea that I would be transported back to my childhood where I’d spent summers with my grandmother in Cedar Lake, Texas, which my family and I proudly call “the country”. I was instantly captivated by the relaxed, rural life here in Jagna and recalled memories of playing outside as a child during long, humid summers in Texas. Now, as an adult, tapping back into my childhood is such an unexpected, yet fulfilling gift that Jagna knew that I needed.

My first month in Jagna felt like I’d already lived here for years. I quickly learned that time passes by slowly here, and fortunately, so has my walking pace. Thus, I’ve re-learned how to stop and admire the surrounding natural beauty- something I used to do often as a child in “the country”. After all, why wouldn’t I want to stare at the rich foliage, endless amount of coconut trees, the ocean, and intricately designed rice paddies?

About 6 months before departing from the U.S., I started preparing for Jagna by learning the Bisaya language (Nagtuon pa ko). However, nothing could prepare me for the delicious food here! You simply can’t tear me away from the bbq, pork adobo, pancit, lumpia, sinigang, lechon, and sweet mangoes. And yes, every now and again, I make sure to eat some fresh vegetables from the local market. I’ve even tried balut (twice in one night, I might add) which was an experience and I am now deemed as an honorary Pinoy, haha.

The people of Jagna have made me feel right at home, and this is no exception at CVIF where the principals, teachers, and students welcomed me with open arms. Teaching general biology and practical research classes have been an eye-opening experience for me as a scientist and educator. It’s definitely forced me to acknowledge my dependence on my laptop/technology. I know this because my first time writing on a chalkboard during class was pretty embarrassing considering my chicken-scratch handwriting vs. the beautiful, Microsoft Word font-like handwriting of my students. No worries, I practiced and got better at it quickly, along with the bonus workout of my right arm during classes.

Outside of my time teaching, I’ve gotten the chance to explore Bohol thanks to the Science Corps Fellowship coordinator, Prince Nayga (Thank you, Prince!). I’ve fearfully and excitedly touched a python, fed a peacock, enjoyed the Loboc River Cruise, marveled at the fist-sized tarsiers, and admired the peaceful Chocolate Hills. One highlight of these experiences is that I also shared these with my mom, who flew all the way from Texas and very much enjoyed her first trip out of the U.S. to the Philippines (Hi Mom!).

My exciting and peaceful first month as a Science Corps Fellow here in Jagna is only the beginning for this native Texan. I can’t wait to see what new adventures lie ahead in the coming months.

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