Taking the Risk, Gaining the World: My SEA-Teacher Journey

The entire experience was truly worthwhile—an adventure filled with learning, self-growth, and the development of new friendships and connections. Looking back, I can confidently say that the risk I took was absolutely worth it. Every single day was memorable, and I will forever treasure everything that happened—the people I met, the relationships I built, and the lessons I learned.

This journey taught me so much more than just teaching techniques; it taught me about life. I learned how to develop myself—not only professionally, as a future teacher, but also personally, as an individual navigating a different culture. My one-month stay was full of cultural immersion and exchange. We experienced Thai culture not just through learning Muay Thai and Thai Dance, but also through everyday interactions with our Thai buddies, teachers, and students.

We also had the opportunity to share our own culture—introducing our traditions and giving them a glimpse of life in the Philippines. Although I wasn’t able to teach a class specifically for children with special needs, which is my major, I gained valuable experiences that contributed to my growth as a future Special Needs Education teacher. I learned to appreciate diversity, to respect differences, and most importantly, to ensure inclusivity in the classroom.

This journey deepened my understanding of what it truly means to create a learning environment where everyone belongs—regardless of who they are, their race, abilities, strengths, weaknesses, or conditions. Inclusivity is at the heart of Special Needs Education, and this program gave me the opportunity to live out that value in a real-world setting.

Because of this, I firmly believe that the purpose and goal of the SEA-Teacher Program were fully realized.

SUGGESTIONS--

I sincerely hope that this program continues for many more years. The SEA-Teacher Program is not just about traveling or having fun—it is about gaining lifelong learning experiences. It shapes not only future teachers’ skills but also their character and worldview.

My journey is living proof that investing in experiences like this is never a waste. It is, in fact, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that leaves you with lessons you can carry for the rest of your life.

So, are you ready to take the exciting risk? 🌏✨

WORDS OF APPRECIATION--

To Ban Nong Bua School

Ban Nong Bua was the place where I spent most of my time during observations, assistance, and demonstrations, and it gave me invaluable learning experiences about teaching. I learned so much from:

• The teachers I observed

• My co-pre-service teachers (our two Janes, who were also in their internships)

• The school director and other teachers

• And most especially, the students

  
  

Communicating with my students was sometimes challenging because of the language barrier, but they never made me feel disconnected. Their warmth, respect, and politeness made me realize that true connection goes beyond language—it’s built on kindness, patience, and understanding.

From them, I learned to be adaptable, flexible, and more intentional in improving my teaching strategies. They showed me that respect and attitude matter as much as skill and knowledge. This lesson is something I will carry wherever I go, whoever I meet.

To Kanchanaburi Rajabhat University (KRU)

KRU was our home for a month, and it truly felt like one. The facilities were complete, the surroundings were clean and peaceful, and everything we needed was accessible. It was such a calming place—even roaming around the campus felt refreshing (though I must admit, riding the “gogo bike” helped a lot!).

I will never forget the distinct floral scent from the trees that greeted us every time we returned to the dorm—it became KRU’s signature smell for me.

I am grateful to everyone at KRU who made our stay special:

• The university staff who were so welcoming

• The President, who even took the time to meet us personally and gave us Thai names (which I’ll proudly use when I return!)

• Ajan Chin, who always made time for us and even invited us to dinner with his family

• Teacher Mofatt, one of our “Thai Moms,” who cared for us like family and gave constructive feedback that helped improve my teaching

• And of course, Teacher Bien (or Mom Bien), who treated us like her own children. From picking us up despite her busy schedule, to bonding with her kind and joyful family, to even lending me her bag when mine broke at the last minute—her support made me feel truly at home.

  
  

Their kindness, generosity, and genuine care made my stay in Thailand unforgettable.

To Our Thai Buddies

To our buddies who became our constant companions, thank you. You made this experience lighter, happier, and easier to navigate. You were always there to guide us, drive us from the dorm to Ban Nong Bua, and offer a helping hand whenever we needed one.

Special thanks to Aom, Frost, Newy, Non, Boom, and especially Angon, with whom I shared many memorable moments. To View, Malee, Bam, Dom, Noknam, and everyone who spent time with us—thank you for your friendship and endless support.

To My Co-SEA Teacher Participants

Lastly, to my fellow SEA-Teacher participants—Jayne, Zy, Les, Eug, Audiva, and Thallah—thank you for making this journey unforgettable. Being away from home for a month was a challenge, but your presence made everything easier. Together, we conquered many “firsts”—our first time away from family, our first time leaving the country, and our first time immersing ourselves in a new culture.

I am grateful to have shared this chapter of my life with all of you.

FINAL THOUGHTS--

This experience was more than just a program—it was a journey of growth, courage, and connection. I came to Thailand to learn how to teach better, but I left with so much more: new friends, new lessons, and a deeper appreciation for diversity and inclusivity.

To anyone given the chance to join the SEA-Teacher Program, I have one piece of advice:

Take the risk. Embrace the unknown. Learn beyond borders. 🌍❤️