Oyuntungalag

For my first Featured Community Member, I asked one of the English Teachers at my school, Tungaa, to answer some questions. She has been extremely helpful with organizing everything for me, from bus tickets, meeker rides, and taking me to the bus station to setting up a WiFi contract for me, taking me out to eat, and solving all problems as soon as they arise. So, without further ado, meet Tungaa!

Tungaa’s 6th grade homeroom classroom “What is Health?” scenario discussions

Tungaa’s youngest son, age 4

Tungaa’s selfie!

*The following responses have not been changed to preserve personality and voice*

What is your full name? What does it mean?

My name is Oyuntungalag. I think it means that a frame of mind is good. Mongolians choose their children’s name related to their religion, Buddha. But my name is a Mongolian name. Its mean is “clear to understand.”

Please describe your family. What do you like to do together?

My parents have 7 children. Three of them are girls. I am the middle one. Until 1995 these numbers of children are simple thing in our society. But now people in Mongolia prefer 2 or 3 children. I grew up in the countryside with my family looking after sheep, milking cows, goats, and mares and producing dairy products. There was not enough free time to play and travel for me. Just working hard with my family. Of course, my family income was enough to live happily. When I was child, it seemed difficult to have many brothers and sister. But now it is good chance to share my life with them.

What are your hobbies? What do you like to do in your free time?

My hobbies are listening to music and traveling with my family. In my free time I really like to cook delicious food for my husband and children.

What is your role in the community?

I am a teacher. My role is to work to prepare good people who are well-educated and have good behavior in my country. I really try to work well for my students.

Please describe a childhood memory. Why did you decide to share this memory?

My childhood was spent in a soum, which is small unit of administration. In summer, 3 months are school vacation. So, students go to their home to help their parents like I did. My family had 400 goats, 250 sheep, about 90 horses, 10-20 cattle, and many camels. My home was so far from Mongolia’s capital city, Ulaanbaatar. So, I really wanted to go to Ulaanbaatar. Visiting in Ulaanbaatar was my big wish. Maybe someone is wondering why I couldn’t visit Ulaanbaatar until I graduated from high school. This is because there was no time to travel and go far from home. Because we had tons of work to do at home, such as milking, cutting their wool, etc.

What would you like people to know about Mongolia and/or Mongolians?

I think Mongolian people who live in countryside are so kind and friendly. They are herders like my parents. My American friends love me because I am always like herders.