My SEA Teacher journey began in a very unconventional way. At first, I had actually heard about the program but didn't have enough courage to apply, especially because I was anxious about my English-speaking skills and my family's financial situation. So I never applied. But God had a different plan for me.

When there was only a month left before the departure, one of the SEA Teacher participants assigned to WVSU suddenly withdrew their application without any explanation. All of a sudden, my university was looking for a substitute and reached out to all the applicants who had not been accepted before, but due to the very short preparation time, they all declined.

At that point, I received a message from the head of my mathematics program, who asked and recommended me for the challenge. They also informed me that my university would cover all the expenses. So without hesitation, despite having no idea how I would prepare everything in time. I accepted right away. I had only received my passport two weeks before my scheduled departure, which, fortunately, was postponed by a month due to some issues with the funding and the Letter of Acceptance. When I received the information, it felt like the universe was on my side, giving me a chance to prepare more. 

At first, though, I felt deeply doubtful about myself. "Am I really worthy of this opportunity?" I kept asking. It felt like I was just a lucky tag-along, someone who got in through the back door rather than on their own merit. But my family convinced me that I was recommended for a reason. I still remember when my sister said to me, "Wan, it's not your fault that everybody else declined such an opportunity — don't feel embarrassed about it. And besides, it's impossible that you were recommended without any consideration. You were recommended for a reason." . So I made a decision: I would pray for the best and prepare myself as thoroughly as I could.