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PURPOSE OF PRACTICUM
The purpose of my practicum as a SEA-Teacher participant was more than just teaching, it was about learning and growing as a future educator. Being in a different country allowed me to step out of my comfort zone, adapt to new situations, and experience how education works in another culture. It gave me the chance to apply what I learned in school, improve my teaching skills, and build confidence in handling students with different backgrounds. More importantly, it taught me how to communicate, collaborate, and create meaningful connections with people from other ASEAN countries. This practicum was not only about developing as a teacher, but also about becoming a more understanding, flexible, and globally minded individual.
PROCEDURES OF PRACTICUM
The procedures for my SEA-Teacher practicum started when ISUFST announced that there would be a SEA-Teacher Program in Indonesia and called for willing participants. All interested students were listed, and afterwards, a systemwide online orientation was held across the five campuses; Dumangas, Dingle, San Enrique, Main-Poblacion, and Main-Tiwi Site. During this orientation, they discussed the expected expenses, the selection process for delegates, the interview, and the requirements such as passports and other important documents.
After the selection, we were formally introduced to our University President, Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. We were also guided by Dr. Jeannete Bayona, the Chair of International Linkages, who advised us to complete all necessary requirements promptly. Before our departure to Indonesia, we had our final orientation with Dr. Rene Estomo, who thoroughly explained what to expect during immigration, what essentials to prepare, how to manage our baggage and money, and what daily needs to bring. Dr. Estomo also accompanied us to Indonesia and stayed with us for a week to ensure a smooth adjustment during our first days abroad.
OUTCOME OF THE PRACTICUM
After 25 days in the SEA-Teacher program at UMSU and AL-AMJAD, I grew both as a teacher and as a person. I applied what I learned in my education courses to real classrooms, improving my lesson planning, classroom management, and confidence. The experience taught me to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and appreciate different educational systems.
Beyond academics, I built meaningful friendships with UMSU and AL-AMJAD, where I met awesome people like, Umi Beby, Umi Inda, Umi Sani, Umi Sania and students at UMSU like Dila and Dwi, special thanks to Dr. Yayuk, who is always checking on us and treating us with some delicious food in Indonesia, and I also immersed myself in Indonesian culture. This practicum strengthened my passion for teaching and prepared me to become a globally minded educator who values learning and cultural exchange.
THE CHALLENGES OF THE PRACTICUM
One of the main challenges I faced during the SEA-Teacher Exchange Program was the language barrier. Teaching and interacting in a country where the local language is different from my own made it difficult to explain lessons clearly, understand instructions, and communicate effectively with students and mentors. Sometimes words or phrases didn’t translate well, which led to misunderstandings and made connecting with students challenging. I overcame this by learning basic local phrases before and during my practicum, some of my students also taught me basic phrases like greetings and how to count in Bahas, using visual aids and gestures in lessons, and asking my CT, Umi Sani, for clarification whenever needed. Being patient and persistent helped me gradually adapt, communicate more confidently, and build stronger connections with both students and colleagues.
OVERALL IMPREESSION
Overall, my SEA-Teacher Exchange experience was both challenging and rewarding. Facing a new teaching environment, different culture, and language barrier pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it also allowed me to grow as an educator and a person. I learned to adapt quickly, communicate more creatively, and connect with students despite differences. The experience strengthened my confidence, patience, and problem-solving skills, leaving me with valuable lessons and memories that I will carry into my future teaching career.
SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE IMPROVEMENT
As a participant, I’ve witnessed how this program truly bridges cultures and enhances teaching skills. It provides an opportunity to experience different educational settings, interact with students from diverse backgrounds, and adapt to new teaching methods. I’ve seen firsthand how challenges like the language barrier push us to be more creative and patient, and how overcoming them strengthens our confidence and problem-solving abilities. One of my suggestions for the SEA-Teacher Exchange Program, if possible, is to extend the program to around two months, where participants would have more time to adjust, prepare lessons, and connect with students. This longer duration would allow for more in-depth pre-departure training on the local language, culture, and teaching strategies. It would also provide opportunities for a mentorship system, regular reflection sessions, and peer sharing, helping teachers improve continuously.
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