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My time at Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) wasn’t just about teaching, it was filled with enriching activities that helped me grow personally, culturally, and linguistically. These experiences outside the classroom made my SEA-Teacher Batch 11 adventure even more memorable and meaningful.
I joined the Halina Umaykan sessions organized by Sentro ng Wika at Kultura (SWAK). It was a fun, interactive class where I learned everyday Filipino and Ilokano phrases, greetings, simple conversations, ordering food, and asking directions. We also explored Filipino and Ilocano culture, traditions, and social norms through role-plays and group activities. It greatly improved my confidence in using English and helped me connect better with locals.
I was fortunate to have free time for weekend explorations, and I used it to visit two of the most iconic destinations in the region: Vigan (in Ilocos Sur, just a few hours south) and Pagudpud (the northern tip of Ilocos Norte). These trips weren’t just sightseeing, they deepened my understanding of Filipino heritage, geography, and the warm Ilocano spirit. Traveling with friends (local students or fellow SEA-Teachers) made every moment more fun and meaningful. Overall, these activities taught me so much: patience in learning new things, the joy of cultural exchange, the beauty of the Philippines, and how stepping out to explore builds lasting memories and friendships.
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