Divulging the Treasured Memories: A Personal Information and Journey Overview



  A Personal Information

 

     Hi! I am Mariz G. Gregorio, and I am 21 years old. Currently, I am a senior in college majoring in English to earn a Bachelor of Secondary Education degree. I currently reside in the Philippines and attend the San Leonardo-Off Campus of Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology. As part of the Southeast Asian Teacher-Student Exchange Program, I attended Universitas Tunas Pembangunan Surakarta to prepare for a career in education. I participated in what is officially called the "Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia," or the SEA-Teacher Project. Its goal is to give university-bound student teachers from Southeast Asian nations the opportunity to get classroom experience (practicum) in elementary and secondary schools across Southeast Asia.

  Participating in the SEA-Teacher Program was completely serendipitous; I had no intention of studying abroad, yet the opportunity presented itself. I can't help but wonder whether what I'm experiencing is real. I always made sure I was capable and worth it for the program before I left. Since there were many NEUST students, it was my responsibility to represent not just my university but also my country as well. I need to make up for the admiration and expectation I felt every time I looked into their eyes by delivering outstanding results for the program.

    My thoughts were constantly soaring like birds in the sky, and the bags under my eyes were evident. I wasn't sure whether to keep on since my mind was filled with what-if scenarios.  Despite my doubts about myself and my ability, I dove myself into the program and gave it my all.

    Along with the necessities for my time in Indonesia, I also brought the determination, courage, and love that my loved ones have bestowed upon me. I keep telling myself that even though it would be strange at first, I will get a lot of knowledge from this journey. A lot of people were there for me, both emotionally and monetarily. As I was there, they were my lifeline; they never got weary of reaching out to me to lighten up the monotony I was experiencing. 

 

Journey Overview

      It was like being on a roller coaster; the adrenaline rush, the unpredictability, and the exhilarating results brought back memories of the bliss I felt in Indonesia. With each passing day, my curiosity about what the next day held grew, making me seem like I was opening a presents box full of surprises. I felt like an intrepid adventurer who wanted to see the world and learn about all its wonders.

      

      I was never made to feel out of place by the bright smiles of my CT Arsa Foundation students and teachers. The fact that they are so disciplined and obedient gives us peace of mind. Seeing the joy and awe in their eyes always made me feel good. Their tenacity in learning English was inspiring, even if they struggled with English. Everyone at CT Arsa Foundation was wonderful, but my favorite part was seeing the students—those who never gave up and who fulfilled their greatest ambitions.


  I considered the friendships I built with a few Indonesians to be priceless. Their efforts to respond to my queries and provide comments were very appreciated; I could see they were struggling to keep up with all of my inquiries. They introduced me to their language, culture, and customs; they suggested and provided mouth-watering meals; and enlightened me about their faith and beliefs. 

 

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