Excellence is never an accident; it is the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, skillful execution, and the vision to see obstacles as opportunities.

 

This quote resonates deeply with my journey, one I never envisioned while dreaming of far-off places during high school and college. Now, as I traverse the roads of Vietnam, I am living a dream—sharing connections with the people and immersing myself in their vibrant traditions through food and customs. This experience has become a chapter in my life that I will cherish forever.

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Reflecting on my teaching experience, I feel a profound sense of fulfillment. Each moment spent sharing what I learned in university enriched my heart. The immersion not only shaped my professional growth but also ignited a deeper understanding of myself. The valuable insights and constructive criticism I received were vital; they guided my journey toward excellence.

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As an outbound student, I faced significant challenges, particularly in communication. I often worried about effectively delivering instructions to my students. Yet, as future educators, we must embody flexibility and adaptability. Despite the hurdles I encountered during my practicum, I embraced the opportunity to rise to the occasion, pouring my heart into every lesson. This experience taught me that obstacles can be transformed into opportunities for growth.

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I am immensely grateful for the support of everyone I worked with—our English supervisor, Mr. Thuy; our Cooperating Teacher, Mr. Marcelo; the faculty at the host university; my fellow inbounds; and our wonderful Vietnamese buddies. Their unwavering encouragement made my stay memorable, reminding me that this journey was not a solitary battle but a collective effort. 

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One of the hardest parts was saying goodbye. Leaving behind newfound friends from both Vietnam and the Philippines was bittersweet. I detest goodbyes, and the 21-day program felt far too short to encompass all the memories we created together. I miss our hangouts, the unexpected twists and turns of our adventures. I hold onto the hope that, if the universe permits, we might reunite again someday.

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Ultimately, I have no regrets about choosing Vietnam for this program. I experienced so many firsts, each one etched in my memory. I want to carry these moments with me, making them a core part of who I am. This journey is a testament to the idea that excellence is cultivated through intention, effort, and the willingness to see beyond obstacles. I am excited to see how these lessons will shape my future, both personally and professionally.