My practicum experience has profoundly reshaped my perception of teaching and education. Before this experience, I always knew teaching was my calling. However, after completing the practicum, I fully realized its significance as I found immense joy in what I was doing—teaching, seeing my students actively involved, and understanding the lessons I delivered.

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Over the course of one month, I immersed myself in hands-on learning that tested my skills and imparted invaluable lessons. These lessons were not confined to the four walls of the classroom but extended beyond them, offering irreplaceable life skills and professional growth. They have made me feel more prepared and resilient for my future as an educator.

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The practicum’s purpose was not only to help me learn but also to allow me to share my knowledge while honing my teaching skills. It challenged me to adapt to new people, environments, and even a foreign language. I had to improve my ability to plan lessons effectively, address my students’ needs, and ensure they learned something valuable from me.

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Although the practicum followed a structured schedule, my abilities were put to the test earlier than anticipated. On the fourth day of our observation, my cooperating teacher, Ibu Nelly, requested that Jacky and I teach the class. This opportunity, though challenging, marked our first experience teaching in a real classroom setting. After our session, both the students and Ibu Nelly were pleased with the results. She later shared that her students learned more with us and that even she gained insights from observing our methods. As a result, she often entrusted her classes to us for the remainder of the practicum.

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By the end of the program, I had significantly enhanced my skills in creating engaging lesson plans, encouraging active participation, and fostering a positive learning environment. Additionally, I became more confident in incorporating technology into my teaching practices.

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One of the most significant challenges I faced was the language barrier, which initially hindered my ability to communicate and explain lessons effectively. English is a foreign language for the students, but I remained undeterred in my purpose—to teach them English. To bridge the gap, I learned basic Bahasa Indonesia. This effort not only helped build rapport with the students but also motivated them to engage more confidently in class, demonstrating that learning a foreign language is achievable.

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Overall, this practicum was an enriching experience that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. It solidified my passion for teaching, prepared me for future challenges, and opened numerous doors of opportunity. It also served as a vital stepping stone for my growth as a future-ready educator.

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To enhance the program for future participants, I would recommend incorporating more workshops on classroom management and differentiated instruction. These would better prepare participants for diverse classroom settings. Additionally, extending the observation period before full teaching responsibilities could provide participants with ample time to understand classroom dynamics and develop effective strategies.

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This practicum was more than just a requirement; it was a life-changing journey. It provided lessons that will last a lifetime, not only for me but also for my peers. This experience opened doors of opportunity and laid the foundation for us to grow in our strengths, achieve our goals, and become better teachers.