During my one-month stay in Bengkulu, time flew by so quickly during my stay that I barely noticed it was time to return to the Philippines. It felt like a rollercoaster ride—a thrilling yet meaningful ride where every moment was meaningful. Each day brought new lessons, and not a single moment felt wasted. Looking back, this program gave me more than I could have ever imagined. Words can’t fully capture how much it has improved my life. I arrived in Bengkulu like a puzzle with missing pieces, but now, so many of those blank spots have been filled with meaningful experiences and connections.

 

       For sure, this program will continue to hone more pre-service teachers, giving them the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and embark on life-changing journeys. It’s a program that doesn’t just aim to shape pre-service teachers professionally but holistically, giving them the tools and knowledge needed to navigate diverse classrooms, connect with different cultures, and build their resilience.

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As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." This experience taught me to embrace every moment with an open heart and mind, constantly seeking growth and understanding.