The welcoming program at SMA Negeri 1 Alalak was a beautiful and heartfelt experience that marked the beginning of my journey at the school through the SEAMEO SEA Teacher Program. From the moment we stepped into the campus, it was evident how much thought and effort the school had put into making us feel at home.

The program began with an introduction to the students, a moment that set the tone for the warm and vibrant atmosphere that surrounded us. It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm and curiosity in the students’ eyes as they welcomed us.

One of the highlights was witnessing the traditional dance of Indonesia, which was both captivating and deeply enriching. Through the elegance and cultural significance of the performance, I felt an immediate connection to the rich heritage of Indonesia. It was a reminder of how art can transcend language and bring people closer together.

The principal’s warm words of welcome further emphasized the school’s hospitality. His encouragement and kind demeanor resonated deeply, leaving me both humbled and motivated to give my best during my time at SMA Negeri 1 Alalak.

Being assigned to our respective classes and introduced to my cooperating teachers marked the beginning of my teaching adventure. I was fortunate to work alongside incredible mentors—Ms. Ida Fitriah, Ms. Mursinah, and Ms. Sri Ayu Lestari—whose expertise, guidance, and patience made this journey even more meaningful. Their unwavering support gave me the confidence to step into the classroom and take on the responsibilities of an educator.

Additionally, my buddies, Nur Amelia and Nanda, were indispensable during this experience. Their friendliness and willingness to assist me in navigating both school life and the surrounding culture made every challenge feel more manageable. They truly exemplified the spirit of camaraderie and kindness.

The welcoming program was not just an introduction to SMA Negeri 1 Alalak; it was an embrace of the school’s culture, values, and the incredible people who make it a special place. It set the stage for a journey filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable memories. For that, I am eternally grateful.

At SMA Negeri 1 Alalak, the Healthy Friday Program is an initiative that promotes physical fitness and wellness among students and faculty members. As a co-facilitator for the Zumba sessions during this program, I had the opportunity to contribute to the school's efforts in fostering a healthy and energetic learning environment.

The Healthy Friday Program is designed to encourage students to engage in physical activities that not only improve their physical fitness but also enhance their mental well-being. Zumba, a high-energy dance workout that combines music with choreographed movements, has been an exciting and effective component of this initiative. It serves as a fun and engaging way for students to stay active while enjoying the rhythm and energy of group exercise.

Celebrating Teachers' Day is always a special occasion, but experiencing it for the first time abroad in Indonesia at SMA Negeri 1 Alalak made it even more meaningful. The event was filled with warmth, respect, and appreciation, highlighting the deep admiration that students and the school community have for their educators.

The program began during the flag ceremony, a formal yet heartfelt tribute to teachers. As the national flag was raised, the students demonstrated their respect and admiration through a coordinated salute, a gesture that symbolized their gratitude for the guidance and knowledge imparted by their mentors. This moment set the tone for the day, emphasizing the significance of teachers in shaping young minds.

Following the salute, the principal delivered an inspiring speech, recognizing the dedication and hard work of the teachers. His words resonated with everyone present, reminding us of the vital role educators play in nurturing the future generation. He expressed his gratitude and encouraged students to always value and respect their teachers, not just on this special day but every day.

To mark the official start of the celebration, a symbolic balloon was set to fly into the sky. As the balloon soared higher, it represented the aspirations and hopes that teachers instill in their students. This simple yet meaningful gesture served as a reminder of the impact educators have in shaping lives and inspiring dreams.

The festivities continued as the principal shared food with the teachers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and appreciation among the faculty. This act of kindness and generosity highlighted the unity within the school community, reinforcing the bond between the teachers and the administration.

One of the most touching moments of the celebration was when the teachers, including myself, lined up in a straight row. Each student then approached us one by one to express their gratitude and respect through a traditional gesture known as salim—a cultural practice where students take the hand of an elder and gently press it to their forehead. This profound act of respect and appreciation was truly heartwarming, as it reflected the deep-rooted values of gratitude and honor ingrained in Indonesian culture.

Experiencing Teachers' Day at SMA Negeri 1 Alalak was a deeply moving and unforgettable experience. It was a day filled with genuine appreciation, mutual respect, and heartfelt moments that reinforced the importance of educators in society. Being part of this celebration abroad made me realize that the love and respect for teachers transcend borders, and I am grateful to have been a part of such a meaningful tradition.

Leaving a place that has become a second home is never easy, especially when the bonds formed are filled with warmth, respect, and shared experiences. The Send-Off Program at SMA Negeri 1 Alalak was a memorable and heartfelt event, as the school bade farewell to us four exchange students. The event was a beautiful culmination of our time at the school, reflecting the deep connection we had built with the students, teachers, and administrators.

The program began with a simple yet meaningful message from the principal, who expressed gratitude for our time at SMA Negeri 1 Alalak. He acknowledged our contributions and the cultural exchange that had enriched both us and the students. His words of appreciation and encouragement set the tone for the event, reminding us that our presence had left a positive impact on the school community.

Following the principal’s message, we took the stage to deliver a presentation about the Philippines, sharing our country’s history, culture, and traditions with the students and teachers. It was a great opportunity to showcase the rich heritage of our homeland and allow our Indonesian peers to gain a deeper understanding of our background. The students listened attentively, eager to learn more about our way of life and customs.

The event continued with an interactive Q&A session, where students and teachers asked us about our experiences, differences between Indonesia and the Philippines, and our thoughts on our stay at SMA Negeri 1 Alalak. The questions reflected their genuine curiosity and appreciation for the cultural exchange. It was a joyful moment, as we shared laughs and insights while reminiscing about our journey in Indonesia.

To end our farewell on an emotional and meaningful note, we sang "Pasilyo," a heartfelt song that conveyed our gratitude and bittersweet feelings about leaving. Our voices filled the room, and we could see the emotions mirrored in the faces of the students and teachers. It was a touching moment that beautifully encapsulated our experience and the friendships we had built.

The program concluded with a gesture of generosity and kindness, as the principal and teachers presented us with gifts and tokens as a remembrance of our time at SMA Negeri 1 Alalak. These gifts were not just material items but symbols of the strong bond and appreciation that had been formed throughout our stay.

The Send-Off Program was an unforgettable experience that reminded us of the power of cultural exchange and the meaningful relationships we had developed. Though our time at SMA Negeri 1 Alalak had come to an end, the memories and connections we made will always remain in our hearts. As we bid farewell, we left with gratitude, carrying with us the love, lessons, and friendships that will continue to inspire us in the future.