Diary Entry #2: The Opening Ceremony
date. September 20, 2023
location. Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (University Center) >> SMA Lab School
Diary Entry Title:. Selamat Datang di UPI!
Dear Diary,
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It is our first day in Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia and it's the opening ceremony day! We slept pretty late last night, after exploring in Gerlong but we had to wake up early for the 8:00 AM call time at the University Center. Yes, the UC is just inside UPI but given that we do not know the places in the university yet, we anticipated that we have to allot some time to walk around and locate the place.
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Guess what? We got lost. But we asked some students and although we were not able to communicate seamlessly with us talking in English and them in Bahasa Indonesia, we were able to understand each other through body language. In the end, we were able to find UC, got up to the fourth floor through the elevator, registered our names, and received a welcome box, which I was so excited to open.
The Welcome Box
When I opened the welcome box, I was excited to taste each of the food items in there. But setting that aside, it was bizarre for me to see the drink inside the box. In the Philippines, meals and snacks are usually accompanied by a bottled water, so this is new to me.
Present!
Despite getting lost on the way to UC, Ms. Shiermae and I made it. I remember being a little nervous because we were in the presence of the International Affairs Director, teachers, and doctors of philosophy as mentors. But as the program went on, I became more comfortable because of their warm welcome.
Favorites
These are two of what I like most from the welcome box. I asked Mentari (sahabat) what these are called. The first one is lemper ayam and the second one is sosis solo.
Warm Welcome
During the opening ceremony, we were all introduced to our cooperating teachers and mentors who would help us finish the program successfully. We were also advised during this time to not always stay indoors, instead, make the most out of our stay in Indonesia as we explore and experience the culture.
This is also the day that I met the most supportive and kind cooperating teacher, Ibu Juliantika to whom I am most grateful for during my practice teaching. She made me feel supported the most.
SMA Lab School
“A new place can make you feel both lost and found at the same time.”
After the opening ceremony, we were brought to our cooperating school - the SMA Lab School, where we discussed the grade level of the students that we're going to teach, the resource materials, and the curriculum.
Following Pak and Ibu to Lab School.
After the meeting at the principal's office, we went to explore the other parts of the school and found the mini canteen.
First look at the Lab School facade and marker.
This is what is written on the wall at the lobby which is probably the school motto. Here, I have already absorbed that the school values faith and religion very much in balance with academics.
As a "fearless food explorer" as what my co- SEA Teachers told me, I ordered an unfamiliar dish without knowing what it is made of and what it tastes like. I found out that it is called kupat tahu and it is made of sticky rice, peanut sauce, tofu, and sprouts with a side of fish crackers. Yes, I enjoyed it very much. I just got surpised with the minty and lemon grassy taste.