1. Tell us a bit about yourself – your name, job position, where you were born, where you live, your qualification and experience.
My name is Carmen Gomes. I am an English teacher at SenaiNT English language Centre (SenaiNT ELC). I was born in Dili on 25th October, 1990. I live in Comoro, Dili. I completed my Bachelor Degree of Teaching and Learning Pre-Service (BTLP) at Charles Darwin University in 2014. After finishing my studies, I was employed at Dili International School to teach Timorese Culture to students in Years 1-6 and also as a Literacy Teacher Assistant. It was a really good experience for me as I worked with students across the full range of year levels and also with students from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
2. What do you teach?
Currently, I am teaching a course called Certificate I in spoken and Written English (CSWE I). I have been teaching this course for the last 15 months.
3. Why did you choose your current profession?
I am very passionate about teaching and I want to share what I’ve learnt in Australia with my fellow Timorese people. I want to help them by teaching English in order for them to improve their English skills and knowledge so that in the future they can get a job either in Timor or overseas.
4. What is your most memorable moment at SenaiNT?
My most memorable moment at SenaiNT were the graduations where I worked very closely with all the students to prepare them for their graduation ceremony and each time, I got to witness their wonderful achievements through sheer hard work and dedication.
5. What has been the most rewarding part of your job whilst at SenaiNT?
The most rewarding part of my job is to see the students graduate from this course especially those who have struggled to get through it but made it to the end successfully.
6. What are your hobbies/interests outside of teaching?
My hobbies are watching movies, listen to music, cooking and traveling. Besides that, I am also interested in working with young people to praise the Lord through singing in my church choir.
7. What is one piece of advice you would give to students who are considering studying at the Centre?
My advice is come to this centre as we provide the best services by catering to your learning needs, especially English learning so that you can improve your skills and get a job in the future.
8. Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
In five years’ time, I see myself working with some organisation or the Timor Leste Ministry of Education to develop a better education system so all people can get access to education despite not having much money.