Acknowledgement
​This is the first time I've made a big life decision: to do FS (Field Study) in Vietnam. When I first heard about it, I felt excited and really wanted to be part of the SEA-Teacher program. But challenges arose—first, my mom said "NO" to this opportunity due to personal reasons, which made it very difficult for us. I remember crying over it, and I even expressed my emotions during the Barangay training because I felt like I couldn't move forward. But God had a plan—He opened the door for me to join the program and gave me the chance to travel abroad. Thank you, Lord, for this opportunity and for a safe journey.
At first, I was hesitant, wondering if I could handle it. It was my first time traveling internationally, and I knew nothing about the country, the rules, or even the food, which worried me because I’m quite picky. Everything was new—how to navigate the airport, where to go, where to sit, where to place my baggage. I observed others closely, but thankfully, Ate Sam was there to guide and help me through the process. And finally, here I am in Vietnam! Every moment here has been memorable because it’s my first time abroad, my first international trip, and everything feels like an adventure.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who supported me. To my ates, kuyas, sir, and ma’am—you helped me achieve my dream. To my mom, thank you for being there every time I called, even with my usual OA (overacting) moments. Thank you for your support! To my dad and the VGM Pawnshop employees, thank you so much for your help—your support really surprised me, and I cried with joy. A huge thank you to the Barangay Officials and SK Chairperson of New Bohol, and to Ate Jenky from BEED. Ate Lani and Nanay Lingling, thank you very much for your support. To Kuya Noknok and Ate Kerin Salibio, thank you for the encouragement and for sharing insights about the place I went to.
I also want to thank my MAS-Amicus family, Tagum Central Adventist family, and New Bohol SDA for all your prayers, especially for the special prayer you offered. Ate Langlang, thank you for being the one I could rely on to contact my Mami. Ate Mismis, thank you for lending me what I needed. Sir James, Ma’am Ansona, and Sir Ken, I appreciate all your help. To UMTC, thank you for this wonderful opportunity. To Elementarius Magister, especially Broce, thank you for being approachable and always there. To our program head, Dr. Chagas, your words of wisdom will stay with me.
To Nhã and My An, my two amazing buddies—thank you for always supporting me, helping me with translations, and accompanying me during my journey. I will miss both of you, and hopefully, we meet again someday. To Ngoc, Nguyen, Tina, Sophia, Nina, Teddy, Lyn, Giang, and all my other Vietnamese friends, thank you for making my experience more enjoyable and unforgettable.
A special thank you to Ate Sam, my roommate and my “mom” during this trip. You took such good care of me, especially when I wasn’t feeling well. I’m so lucky to have had you by my side. To Bob, my partner in crime, and Dexter—thank you for the memories. To my school friends, neighbors, and everyone who mentioned me on Facebook for safe travels—thank you! Special shoutout to Mark Angelo, Rischel, Rosie, Noreen, and Dodong—you guys always know how to make me laugh!
Most importantly, to my Mami (Grandmother) and Dadi (Grandfather)—thank you for always supporting me, rain or shine, and for accompanying me everywhere, including to the airport. Even though Mami cried at the airport, she hugged us all and prayed for us. Mami and Dadi, I’ve achieved one of our dreams.
This is Ira, deeply grateful. Cảm ơn
