Salam sejahtera! I am Mark Daniel B. Delos Santos, a fourth-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Secondary Education, Major in English at Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, Papaya Off-Campus. As a member of the 11th batch of SEA Teachers, I am honored to share my experiences, reflections, and insights gained from this remarkable teaching and cultural immersion program that have profoundly influenced my growth as both a future educator and an individual.

Becoming a candidate for the SEA Teacher Exchange Program has been a journey shaped by both prayer and perseverance. From the moment I first learned about this opportunity, I committed myself to preparing—studying, practicing, and growing not just academically, but personally. There were moments of doubt, challenges to overcome, and times when I wondered if it was truly possible. Yet, through consistent effort and heartfelt prayer, I gradually saw doors open and opportunities align. Looking back, this pre-journey has already been a transformative experience, teaching me that dedication, faith, and persistence can turn aspirations into reality.

Our Day-Long Journey

Our trip to the host university in Indonesia took almost a whole day. We left Nueva Ecija early in the morning, moving from bus to flights and back again. It was tiring, and there were moments of boredom and small problems along the way, but we kept laughing and encouraging each other. Even though the journey was long, the excitement of arriving and starting this new adventure made it all feel worth it.

Our campus tour at Universitas Sebelas Maret was both exciting and inspiring. As we walked through the grounds, I was amazed by the blend of modern buildings and green spaces, giving the campus a lively yet peaceful feel. We visited classrooms, libraries, and student areas, meeting professors and students who warmly welcomed us.

During my stay, I tasted all kinds of nasi—from Nasi Goreng to Nasi Kuning—and I quickly realized that almost every dish in Indonesia has sambal or chili, even the bread! The spicy flavors were a surprise at first, but they made every meal exciting and unforgettable.

During our weekend trip, we explored different historical places and experienced some of the most breathtaking natural sights. Walking through old palaces, temples, and museums, I felt connected to the stories and traditions of the past. Then, stepping into lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints, I was reminded of nature’s power and beauty.

Getting around was an adventure in itself. We used Gojek, an all-in-one transport app that made it easy to find rides, food, and even deliveries. What surprised me the most was that the roads and driver’s seat are on the opposite side compared to the Philippines. It took some getting used to, but it was exciting to experience a new way of traveling and seeing the city from a different perspective.

Being deployed to SMA Negeri 1 Surakarta was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, everyone welcomed me warmly, making me feel like a long-lost brother, colleague, and friend all at once. Their kindness and openness immediately made me feel at home, and I quickly realized that this school wasn’t just a workplace—it was a community I could truly belong to

One of the most meaningful parts of my stay in Indonesia was the people I met along the way. From my student buddies and fellow interns at SMA Negeri 1 Surakarta to the students and locals I encountered during my travels, every connection touched me deeply. Their kindness, laughter, and genuine care made me feel truly welcomed, and reminded me that the heart of any place isn’t just its sights or culture—it’s the people who make you feel at home.