Reflection

Looking back, the SEA-Teacher Programme has been one of the most transformative chapters of my academic journey. What began as an international teaching practicum gradually became an experience that reshaped the way I view education, cultural diversity, and my own identity as a future educator.

This journey did not begin when I arrived in the Philippines—it began long before my flight departed. It started with months of preparation, uncertainty, excitement, and moments of self-doubt. There were times when I questioned whether I was truly ready for this opportunity and whether I would be able to represent my university and country well. Looking back now, I realize that every challenge before my departure was quietly preparing me for everything I would eventually experience.

Stepping into a classroom in another country was both exciting and intimidating. As an Early Childhood Education student, I never imagined that I would be entrusted with teaching a Grade 4 Physical Education class. It pushed me far beyond my comfort zone, requiring me to adapt quickly, communicate in a different language, and embrace unfamiliar situations with confidence. That experience taught me that teaching is never limited by age groups or subjects—it is defined by our willingness to learn, connect, and grow alongside our students.

Throughout my placement, I witnessed educational practices that broadened my perspective. Observing the implementation of the MATATAG Curriculum, student-centered learning, and a classroom culture built upon mutual respect demonstrated that meaningful learning flourishes when students are trusted, encouraged, and actively involved in the learning process. One of the moments that touched me the most was the Moving Up Ceremony, where every child was recognized for their individual strengths and achievements. Watching each learner being celebrated reminded me that every child deserves to be seen, appreciated, and empowered according to their unique potential.

Beyond the classroom, the Philippines became my second classroom. Through every conversation, every unfamiliar Filipino word I learned, every local meal I shared, every prayer offered far from home, and every cultural tradition I experienced, I discovered that education is not confined within school walls. It lives in communities, friendships, shared experiences, and the willingness to understand people whose backgrounds are different from our own.

The Student Exchange Programme at National University further expanded my perspective by allowing me to learn alongside Filipino pre-service teachers, exchange ideas with lecturers, and present educational practices from Indonesia. These experiences reminded me that although educational systems may differ, educators around the world share the same purpose: creating meaningful learning experiences and inspiring future generations.

Reflecting on both Indonesia and the Philippines, I realized that each educational context has its own strengths. Universitas Negeri Jakarta has equipped me with strong academic foundations and valuable teaching experiences, while the Philippines introduced me to different pedagogical approaches, international collaboration, and a learning environment that embraces openness, participation, and cultural diversity. Rather than comparing which system is better, I learned that every experience offers valuable lessons that can inspire us to become better educators.

Above all, SEA-Teacher taught me that becoming a teacher is not merely about standing in front of a classroom. It is about embracing differences with empathy, leading with humility, adapting with confidence, and believing that education has the power to connect people across languages, cultures, and borders.

To everyone who became part of this journey, thank you.

To SEAMEO, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, National University, and Nazareth School of National University, thank you for creating an opportunity that allowed me to learn beyond borders.

To my lecturers, professors, Prof. Cloyd B. Arbolante , Ms. Gemelly, the NU-SAIA team, my student buddy especially Kate, fellow SEA-Teacher participants kak zillan, anya, ica, all of my friends, and every student who welcomed me with kindness—thank you for making Manila feel like a second home. Your guidance, encouragement, laughter, and generosity transformed an international programme into a family I will always cherish.

Finally, to my family and everyone back home who continuously prayed for me, believed in me, and supported me throughout this journey—thank you for reminding me that no matter how far I travel, I am never alone.

As I return to Indonesia, I bring back far more than photographs, certificates, or souvenirs. I return with lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, renewed confidence, and a deeper understanding that growth often begins the moment we dare to step beyond our comfort zone.

SEA-Teacher was never only about teaching abroad. It was about discovering the kind of educator—and the kind of person—I aspire to become.

"Some journeys change the places we visit. This one changed the way I see the world, the way I understand education, and the way I believe in myself."

Keep growing, keep learning and keep smiling. See you again! Maraming salamat po.