The following days were filled with excitement UMSU’s welcoming ceremony, visits to Al-Amjad Islamic School, classroom observations, and interactions with teachers and students. I vividly remember how nervous yet eager I felt when my cooperating teacher, Umi Indah, invited me to observe her classes. I noticed that the medium of instruction, even in mathematics, was entirely in Bahasa. This posed a challenge for me, but it also pushed me to find creative solutions. I decided to prepare my lessons in Bahasa with English translations and, at times, create two versions of my presentations. This method not only worked but also helped bridge the gap between me and my students.

When I started teaching, I handled six classes under my cooperating teacher three boys’ classes and three girls’ classes. I quickly realized that each class had a unique dynamic: the boys were more energetic while the girls were calmer and more reserved. This taught me to be flexible and to adjust my strategies according to the needs of my students. I made sure my lessons were interactive, engaging, and enjoyable, designing activities that encouraged participation and made learning feel meaningful.

One of the most memorable experiences happened on July 23, 2025, Children’s Day. My fellow participants and I joined the morning exercise with the elementary and secondary students. To our surprise, the teachers pulled us to the front to lead the activity. It was even livestreamed on Instagram! Although we felt shy at first, we embraced the moment, and it turned into a joyful memory that made us feel truly part of their community.

Beyond the classroom, we also had the opportunity to explore UMSU’s OIF campus, where we observed celestial objects through advanced telescopes and even viewed the sun safely a moment that left me in awe. Another highlight was the UMSU Field Study on July 30, 2025, where I was recognized alongside international students. Receiving an ID badge from the Rector of UMSU was a humbling and proud moment that I will always treasure.

Later, on August 1, 2025, we attended a leadership program organized by the College of Economics. Though we initially thought it would be a casual talk, it turned out to be a prestigious event with student leaders from Indonesia and Malaysia. One of my fellow SEA-Teacher participants spoke on behalf of our group, and despite her nerves, she delivered an inspiring speech. That day reminded me of the importance of courage, adaptability, and supporting each other as a team.

Looking back, my SEA-Teacher journey was not only about teaching mathematics it was about learning, adapting, and growing in ways I never imagined. From the challenge of teaching in a different language, to the joy of seeing students’ smiles, to the unforgettable cultural exchanges, every moment shaped me into a better version of myself.

I realized that teaching goes beyond textbooks and classrooms it is about building connections, sharing experiences, and creating memories that leave an impact on both teacher and student. Indonesia taught me resilience, creativity, and the power of cultural understanding.

As I carry these lessons with me, I am more confident in my journey as a future educator. I will always remember that education is not just about imparting knowledge, it is about bridging worlds, inspiring others, and leaving footprints of learning that last a lifetime.