CONSUMMATION OF MY SEA TEACHER JOURNEY

"Beginnings are usually scary, and ending are usually sad, but it's everything in between that makes it all worth living."

- Bob Marley

I can still remember the first moment I received the acceptance letter from Universitas PGRI Madiun. I was just a dream before, but now, everything becomes real.

I applied for the SEA Teacher Project because I know it would be a great platform for me to enhance my communication skills and to further practice my future profession. I was told about this project when I was still in third year in college by one of my professors, Miss. Lalaine Ann F. Manuel, who is currently the International Affairs Coordinator of the College of Education. At first, I was hesitant because I can't imagine myself teaching in the other country. Actually, I submitted my application form in the day of deadline.

The best thing about the program is that, my expectations are, if not all, meet. Thanks to the very hardworking and accommodating buddies and coordinators of UNIPMA. I never felt that I was away from home for they made sure that we have had the best lodging house and kind buddies.

In my first week stay, I had a hard time communicating to the locals especially when I need to order food. However, as others say, you can learn everything. Eventually, I can order my own food even without the help of any buddy.

One of the hardest challenge during the practicum is when I met my cooperating teacher in SMAN 2 Madiun. English is not her first neither second language that's why, instead of three days, my buddy accompanied me for the entire duration of the project.

Aside from the memories of practice teaching, I met wonderful people who made my stay in Indonesia extra special. I guess, without them, my journey here would be boring. They made my stay colorful as we share love and friendship. These people are Francisco Emmanuel Fontanilla, Ruth Hael Ann Basilio, Rywelle Bravo, Cyd Diza, Joshua Malapit, and John Robert Salazar; all from the Philippines. We never thought that we will be close friends.

Thanks to SEAMEO for this opportunity to join such a wonderful and competitive program. You've molded us to be a great teacher for the future leaders of our nation.

Thanks to UNIPMA for accepting us as a new member of your family and for bringing up those people who made this journey more remarkable.