In September 2024, Annie, a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) at SMA Xaverius Bandar Lampung, attended a three-day, two-night Santiaji student council camping leadership training at Asilo Hermelink in Bandar Lampung. The event involved 67 students and 29 teachers, including candidates for the 2024/2025 OSIS and MPK student council positions from Classes X and XI. Despite the packed schedule, which began each morning at 5 a.m. with group aerobics, the students remained enthusiastic and committed to the program’s goals.

The training aimed to align student leaders with the vision of SMA Xaverius Bandar Lampung: excellence, transformation, and sustainability. Throughout the weekend, the students participated in workshops on leadership topics such as public speaking and organizational management and engaged in team-building activities. Lessons emphasized the importance of being a responsible, dynamic leader by fostering cohesion and serving as a role model within the school community. Qualities such as patience, innovation, and integrity were highlighted as essential traits for leadership.

Annie enjoyed learning alongside the students and teachers, gaining valuable insights into the school’s leadership values. She also cherished the time spent outside of the classroom setting to build relationships with her school community. Annie’s favorite weekend memories include singing around the campfire and learning to make pukis (traditional Indonesian snack), enak! (delicious!).

Annie Cowen is currently teaching at SMA Xaverius Bandar Lampung, Lampung.