Attending the 69th TEFLIN Conference at Syiah Kuala University was a transformative experience for me and I can honestly say it was an experience of a lifetime. This marked my first participation in a TEFLIN conference and my second visit to the beautiful province of Aceh.
The entire journey was a delightful fusion of academia and cultural exploration, starting with the captivating opening ceremony that set the stage for the exciting days that followed. The pre-conference workshops were insightful and educational, particularly the one on fundamental English writing skills and the introduction to Perusall. These sessions equipped me with valuable tools and knowledge that I can apply in my teaching career.
The plenary sessions were a highlight of the conference. It was a privilege to listen to keynote speakers of the caliber of Bapak Iwan Syahril from Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, Professor Yunisrina Qismullah Yusuf from Universitas Syiah Kuala, Paul Gruba from The University of Melbourne, Australia, and many other distinguished speakers. Whether presenting their insights on-site or remotely, their wisdom and expertise left a lasting impact.
One of the most significant moments of pride for me was the opportunity to present my research during a parallel session. It was a fulfilling experience to share my work with fellow educators and receive valuable feedback and insights from them.
The greatest moment of the conference was undoubtedly the Teacher of the Year award presented by Professor Utami Widiati to me during the cultural night and gala dinner on the last day. It was a recognition that will forever hold a special place in my heart.
The journey didn’t end with the conference itself. The day after, we embarked on a marvellous trip to Sabang, where I once again stood in awe of the zero kilometer monument of Indonesia. Even though it was my second visit, the beauty and significance of the place felt like love at first sight all over again.
Reflecting on the entire experience, I can confidently say that the 69th TEFLIN Conference in Syiah Kuala University became one of the most memorable and cherished chapters of my academic journey. The conference provided a platform for intellectual growth, the opportunity to build new friendships, and the chance to immerse myself in the rich culture of Aceh. The cultural night, the trip to Sabang, and even the heartwarming cat rescue story at Unsyiah, all contribute to what I consider the most sparkling story of my 2023, a radiant tale in the Veranda of Mecca.
In sum, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to TEFLIN, Syiah Kuala University, and the entire organizing committee for an unforgettable experience. This conference has not only enriched my academic knowledge but also enriched my life with treasured memories. I eagerly look forward to future TEFLIN conferences and the experiences they hold in store.
Last but not least, here’s a pantun I’d like to share with you:
In Gayo land we learn Saman dance,
Wisdom blooms in education’s ray.
Keep sharing at TEFLIN conference
Together we learn, grow and stay.
Narrated by Sari Wulandari
