Participating in the SEA-Teacher program has been a journey of growth, pushing me beyond my comfort zone and helping me to explore my potential as both a teacher and, one day, a lawyer. Initially, I struggled with a fear of speaking in front of unfamiliar people, but my father encouraged me to take this opportunity to overcome that hurdle. This program has not only helped me build confidence but also deepened my love for teaching, as I’ve come to appreciate the profound role teachers play in shaping students' futures. Despite the language barrier, this experience has enriched my perspective and reinforced my commitment to this profession.

I am immensely grateful to my family for their unwavering support and to my host family in Indonesia, Ibu Ratna and Bapak Hengke, for providing me with a second home during this journey. SEAMEO’s vision of giving education students international exposure has been a significant step in helping me embrace new cultures and broaden my worldview. Meeting people from diverse backgrounds and engaging with different traditions has truly expanded my understanding of life and my role as an educator. This program holds special meaning for me, and I am grateful for the invaluable experiences and connections it has given me.

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​1. Procedures of Practicum

The practicum procedures as a SEA Teacher were thoroughly explained to us by Sir Armand James Vallejo, who outlined our goals and objectives, providing essential guidance that helped us throughout the program. I am especially grateful for his support, which gave me a clear direction and purpose in my teaching journey. Upon arriving in Indonesia, my cooperating teacher at SMKN 4, Ibu Nessa, was instrumental in my experience, allowing me to observe and teach in different departments at SMKN 4, a vocational school, to gain a comprehensive perspective.

 

​From the first day, Ibu Nessa toured us around, explaining the unique needs and specialties of each department’s students. I am also deeply thankful for my host family— Ibu Ratna, Bapa Hengke, and Abang Rizaldi—who helped me adapt by sharing crucial insights about teaching and Indonesian culture. Their guidance and suggestions before and after each class were invaluable, allowing me to approach my practicum confidently and fully prepared.

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2.Outcomes of Practicum

The outcomes of my practicum in Indonesia as a SEA Teacher were profoundly rewarding, both personally and professionally. I gained firsthand experience in adapting teaching methods to a multicultural classroom and learned to communicate more effectively, overcoming language barriers by incorporating Bahasa Indonesia into my lessons. This practicum allowed me to witness the essential role of teachers in students' career paths, especially in a vocational setting like SMKN 4. My confidence in public speaking improved as I engaged with diverse groups, enhancing my teaching skills and adaptability. The experience also broadened my cultural perspective, making me more appreciative of the power of education in bridging cultural gaps and preparing me for an international teaching environment.

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3. The Challenges of Practicum

The practicum in Indonesia as a SEA Teacher presented several challenges, primarily due to the language barrier, which made effective communication and lesson delivery more difficult. Adapting to a new educational culture also required flexibility, as students’ learning styles and classroom dynamics were different from what I was accustomed to. Teaching diverse classes in a vocational school meant catering to various skill levels, which added complexity to lesson planning and classroom management. Additionally, the extended class durations tested my ability to keep students engaged, requiring creative, interactive activities to maintain their attention. Despite these challenges, the experience was invaluable for personal and professional growth, fostering resilience, adaptability, and a deeper appreciation for the teaching profession.

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4. Overall Impression and Suggestions for future improvement

My overall impression of the SEA Teacher program in Indonesia has been incredibly positive and enriching. The experience of teaching in a foreign setting opened my eyes to the diverse needs and learning styles of students, while also challenging me to adapt my teaching methods creatively. The support from the local teachers, staff, and my host family made a tremendous difference, fostering an environment of learning and cultural exchange that was both professional and personal. I left with a deeper appreciation for teaching as a career and a broader global perspective that has been invaluable.

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For future SEA Teachers joining this program, I suggest preparing thoroughly in both teaching methods and basic language skills. Learning key phrases in Bahasa Indonesia before arrival will help break language barriers and build rapport with students. Additionally, future participants should embrace flexibility and be open to advice from local mentors, as their insights on Indonesian education and culture will be essential for success. These small steps will not only improve their teaching experience but also enhance their cultural immersion, making the journey even more rewarding.