SEA Teacher Project: A Door-Opener

When I was a first-year student, and I first learned that Davao del Sur State College had an International Affairs and Relations Office (IARO), I told myself, “I want to be an exchange student.” God truly had better plans because that dream came true in a way I never expected. I am not just an exchange student, but as a student teacher completing my actual internship abroad under the 10th Batch of Southeast Asia (SEA) Teacher Project by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Secretariat (SEAMEO Secretariat).

Coming from a humble background, taking on an additional internship outside of our local high school meant doubling the expenses. I also had responsibilities as the Supreme Student Council (SSC) Vice President, and with my undergraduate thesis still in progress, I was hesitant to join the program. I was overwhelmed. I had doubts. I questioned if I could manage everything. Yet, here I am because of my supportive mom. This inspired me to do my best at Semarang, Indonesia. 

Actually, this isn’t my first time visiting Indonesia. Two years ago, I traveled to Jakarta for an international convention. The trip was fully funded by the Fairtrade Network of Asian and Pacific Producers, an international NGO with which I’m affiliated, and by the European Union. I stayed in a hotel for a week and didn’t really get the chance to explore or experience much of the local life (https://l1nk.dev/indonesia2023). But even in that short time, I have noticed the hospitality, and warmth of Indonesian people. I’m also very curious of other places aside from the high-rise building.

Now that I’m back for a second time, the experience feels even sweeter. This time, I’m not just a visitor, I’m living, teaching, and learning here with my company, Marlowe, Iza, and Rogie. It’s a deeper kind of connection, and it has made me appreciate the country and its people on a whole new level. More importantly, this journey has given me time and space for self-reflection. It challenged me, and helped me grow. As I prepare to return to the Philippines, I carry not only memories, but lessons that will stay with me.