Week 3 began at SMP Brawijaya Smart School, where the four of us taught in a single Grade 7 class. We divided the lesson into parts so each of us could take a turn teaching. Afterward, Ma’am Yusi discussed the details of our final demonstration teaching, which would be done individually. I was assigned to Grade 7-C.
We thought we were heading to meet the principal afterward, but instead, we were invited to an interview with two student journalists from the school publication. They asked about the SEATEACH Program and the similarities and differences between the educational systems of the Philippines and Indonesia. Once done, we walked back to Universitas Brawijaya, it’s close enough to be walkable, and checked out some UB merchandise.
Later that afternoon, Ma’am Yusi informed us that due to shortened school days for Ramadan, we needed to begin our final demos the very next day. While it wasn’t my turn yet, we decided to prepare one lesson plan per teaching pair, with only minor adjustments for each individual’s turn, to keep things fair.
Tuesday was Hannah and Aileen’s big day. Both gave excellent final demo lessons, with Aqilla and Aurel assisting as translators when needed. I was there to film and support them, and I couldn’t have been prouder. After their post-conference with Ma’am Yusi and Doc Frida, we all went for lunch at Lafayette, our favorite restaurant by now. That evening, we visited the largest Nakoa Café in Malang with Aqilla (sadly, Aurel couldn’t join).
On Wednesday, we attended another of Doc Frida’s classes, observing four student-teachers present their demo lessons. We offered our comments and suggestions afterward, and it was inspiring to exchange ideas with them. Later, some classmates invited us for lunch, where we bonded over food, random conversations, and even filmed a TikTok together. It felt great to make new friends at the university. The rest of the day was spent preparing for my own final demo.
Thursday—our turn. Rea taught first, while I took some quiet time in the library to practice. My topic was Describing Animals, focusing on adjectives. To make it engaging, I began with a “Pictionary Style” game: students picked a strip with an animal name, and a team representative drew it on the board while others guessed. It was lively, competitive, and set a fun tone for the lesson. I then moved into the discussion on adjectives and different categories for describing animals, weaving in questions and examples to keep students engaged.
Activities followed to reinforce learning, both group and individual. We wrapped up by reviewing the day’s objectives, and I was delighted to see they had been met. I felt deeply fulfilled by the lesson’s success. Afterward, I took group photos with my students, Ma’am Diny, and Ma’am Yusi before heading into the post-conference. Receiving constructive and encouraging feedback from such skilled educators was incredibly meaningful.
We ended the day with a meeting with the school principal, alongside Ma’am Yusi and Ma’am Diny, to share our reflections and compare experiences between teaching in the Philippines and Indonesia. That evening, we celebrated at Kajoetangan, enjoying dinner and exploring the area.
On Friday, we returned to SMP BSS to receive our rating sheets and have our daily time records signed. We took plenty of photos with Ma’am Yusi, gave her a small token, and were touched to receive a bag full of snacks from her in return. Saying goodbye to the principal, Ma’am Yusi, and the school community was emotional; they had welcomed us with such warmth. To close the day, we headed to the mall to shop for souvenirs.
Saturday started with another souvenir-shopping trip, this time to Hypermart. We also explored more of Universitas Brawijaya, realizing we still hadn’t seen the entire campus—it’s that big. In the afternoon, we visited Doc Frida’s house for Iftar, the evening meal breaking the Ramadan fast. She prepared an incredible spread, making us feel right at home. Her warmth, care, and genuine hospitality truly touched us; she felt like a second mother. We enjoyed conversations with Aurel and Aqilla, got to know Doc Frida’s family, and learned more about their religion and customs. True to her generosity, she sent us home with takeout and snacks, some to enjoy now, others to bring back to the Philippines. It was an evening filled with love, learning, and connection.
Sunday was a free day, so we ventured to Araya, a chic and scenic area. At the Araya Arcade Garden, we took countless photos despite the rain, had lunch, and then walked to Ombe’ Kofie Araya, a stylish café overlooking a golf course. The vibe was sophisticated yet relaxed, a perfect Sunday treat! We ended the day with a hearty dinner with Aurel at Piring Asia, closing Week 3 with full hearts and happy memories.
This week was a whirlwind of preparation, learning, and immersion, not just in the classroom, but in every aspect of life here in Malang. It was both beautiful and fulfilling in ways that are hard to capture in words. Successfully completing my final demo teaching felt like a milestone, not only in my SEATEACH journey but in my growth as an aspiring educator.
I will never forget the faces of my students when I told them it was my last day to teach them. Their eyes softened, their smiles faded, and they asked why. Some even shyly asked for my Instagram so we could stay connected. In that moment, I realized that teaching is not just about delivering lessons, it’s about building relationships, creating a shared space of trust, and leaving a piece of yourself with the people you meet.
I miss them already, their energy, their curiosity, and the way they reminded me why I chose this path in the first place. This week taught me that goodbyes in teaching are never truly final; the lessons and memories we share with our students will continue to live in both their hearts and ours. And while I may have left their classroom, a part of me will always remain there. I’m getting emotional already, so I’m going to end the reflection here. So much love for my Grade 7-C students!
If you want to see more of Week 3’s beautiful and fun moments, you’re in for a treat! We’ve got a full one-hour vlog packed with laughter, celebrations, and unforgettable memories. You’ll get to see so much more than what I’ve shared here; it’s like joining us for the entire week!