Language is so much more than just a means of communication. Learning English can be life-changing, as Anita Tamang knows. She aims to continue to change lives, teaching English to students in Nepal. Originally from Nepal, currently residing in Singapore, Tamang is pursuing a Master’s in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) online at Azusa Pacific University. Called by APU’s Christ-centered approach to teaching and environment of faith-driven community, Tamang knew the program was the right fit for her. As she learns more, Tamang continues to impact the lives of students in Nepal and expand her own faith.
Tamang was encouraged to attend APU because of its Christ-centered mission. “What immediately drew me was its God-centered approach. The program emphasized helping me realize my unique, God-given potential,” said Tamang. “I did not simply want to earn a degree; I wanted to learn how my faith could be integrated with my studies and how I could use that knowledge to serve others.” APU’s faith integration and God First mission have allowed Tamang to develop her faith further and prepared her for the service she currently does.
TESOL is a unique program, allowing students to develop the skills to teach English
and lead others in their understanding of the world around them. Having grown up not
speaking English, Tamang recognized the transformative power that learning the language
can have. “It opened doors that would not have been possible to open otherwise. Through
this language, I have been able to connect globally and dream for myself and others,”
said Tamang.
This mindset of teaching continues to motivate her to grow in the field. When students
are given access to English, it can unlock the potential to thrive and change the
world.
While teaching English to students in Nepal in 2024, Tamang experienced unique challenges and opportunities. “I realized that improving education in Nepal requires more than classroom-level interventions; it requires systemic change grounded in research, community partnership, and a deep understanding of local contexts,” said Tamang. “While the challenges can at times feel insurmountable, I find profound fulfillment in witnessing even one life impacted—a student who begins to believe in their potential, or a teacher who gains renewed confidence and clarity in practice.”
Through these challenges, like raising three young children while pursuing her graduate degree, Tamang continues to lean on her faith and support from APU. “Time and again, God reminded me that He sees my full plate, that He is near, and that He is sustaining me. Those reminders and support from my family and friends have been enough to keep me going,” said Tamang. “He has also surrounded me with like-minded educators at APU who have supported and strengthened me along the way.”
As an online student, connection requires a large amount of effort. But Tamang was able to receive guidance from her professors and connect with classmates in different ways. “I especially remember corresponding with Dr. Tasha Bleistein during the independent research project she encouraged me to pursue. It was my first experience conducting formal research, and she patiently guided me through each step of the process,” said Tamang. “What deeply moved me was reading her faculty endorsement. I was struck by how accurately she understood me—despite the physical distance and the fact that we had never met in person. Her insight reflected a profound commitment to knowing her students.” This kind of guidance and mentorship has helped Tamang to pursue her dreams and work towards even higher goals.
As a first-generation student, Tamang is gaining experience as she goes through her program. “Coming from humble beginnings to becoming the first graduate in my family, I can only attribute this journey to God’s grace and goodness,” said Tamang. “He has faithfully carried me through unexpected opportunities and milestones I never could have imagined.” One of those opportunities was the Master’s in TESOL program that she is currently pursuing. “I have been equipped with the competencies of language teaching, and I’ve also broadened the perspectives that shape and refine my teaching philosophy and pedagogy—particularly in understanding the spiritual dimensions of teaching, the learner, and culturally diverse students,” said Tamang.
As she continues to positively impact the lives of her students and further her own
education, Tamang leans on God’s calling for her life.
The impact that she can have on students, opening up a world of possibilities through
the English language, helps Tamang continue in her mission. “If I could give one lasting
piece of advice, it would be: We cannot change the world, but we can change the world
for one.” The impact that one student can make on the world is a testament to God’s
goodness.