Summary and Suggestions

HOW WAS YOUR SEA-TEACHER JOURNEY?

Each time someone asks me that question, there is always this instant debate in my mind, a war-like battle, deciding on what to share first, like words scrambling to sit on the throne of my tongue. Of course, as a sentimental person who would love to give a premium to all the great things I experienced in Thailand, I always end up asking those people back where they want me to begin. It is because the journey was not just a cruise; it was a voyage. And it was not just about professional growth but more of a personal one. And if only I could compress everything in one sentence, I would have done it. 

But to give the highlight of my journey, more than the teaching skills and pedagogy I learned, I was also able to break cultural barriers. I met and learned from different people, which was my favorite part. Aside from the Thais, I also met some from Indonesia, Vietnam, and Germany. My one-month stay was kind of short, but it was packed with lots of realizations and lessons. And for that, I am grateful to meet all of them. Not only to the people I met in Thailand but also to my co-exchange students who went to UNP prior to our departure. It was nice sharing this journey with them.

However, if there is one notable learning that struck me most is to be reminded of my true purpose. They say that teaching is a vocation. And when we say vocation, it is a calling, a purpose, or a passion that gives meaning to one's life. To be honest, before joining the SEA-Teacher Project, I did question myself many times whether I was still on the right path. I asked myself whether I was good enough and was worthy to be an educator. 

Thankfully, my experience at Udonpittayanukoon School made me climb back to my pedestal. Seeing my students smile and respond positively every time I conduct my lesson flatters me. The SEA-Teacher project made me realize that I am truly on the right track and that I must continue holding my torch with the belief that I can illuminate light to direct the innocent minds and compass those who are lost. 

Now that I completed my voyage, I want to carry this burning torch: signalling that I am now prepared to radiate my values, knowledge, and skills to my future learners. I am now more eager to keep the flame of knowledge glowing so that someday, learners can also pass it on to the next generation

It is true. The teaching profession can be frustrating, but at the same time, I would also like to believe that it can be fulfilling. Aside from the teaching points I have learned from Teacher Wan, I also realized how the profession requires patience in all aspects. There is no such thing as a perfect classroom. Just like in the Philippines, even though teachers come prepared, they still meet various challenges. However, I would still like to say that whatever challenges there may be, teaching will always be a matter of patience and a measure of passion—and I think this lesson I learned from SEA-Teacher is something that I would like to carry throughout my career.

I really appreciate Udonpittayanukoon School’s commitment to offering complete learning facilities and a diverse range of extracurricular activities. This definitely contributes to a well-rounded educational experience for their students. It was great to see that the students show respect towards their teachers, which is a testament to the positive culture of mutual support at the school. I also find it fantastic that Udonpittayanukoon prioritizes the well-being of its educators by providing them with lighter workloads and creating an environment that enables them to thrive.

The fact that Udonpittayanukoon is one of the top schools in Isan is truly impressive and speaks volumes about the quality of education they offer and the dedication of their staff. I also think it is inspiring that they are culturally open and committed to promoting diversity by accepting Filipino teachers to teach English, which fosters cultural exchange and expands the horizons of their students.