On February 14, ETA Alice Rodi held SMK Raden Umar Said’s (RUS) local WORDS competition.

The event began in the school’s Aula (hall) at 1 pm with opening remarks from Alice, student MCs Mano and Zidane, and principal Bapak Agam. Seven students performed before intermission, followed by six more after a brief break for coffee and snacks. The performances concluded around 3 p.m., after which the judges discussed their results. Finally, the winners were announced, closing remarks were made, and prizes were conferred.

Myta Aurora was given the recognition of “Best Performer,” and Khansa ‘Athaaya Mazaya was awarded “Best Story.” Third place went to Zidane Khalid Wibowo, second to Tsabita Kamila, and first to Clarintha Glory Amungin Allokendek.

The day was a resounding success, with impressive showings from all 13 competitors. Alice is extremely proud of all the hard work her students put in and is incredibly grateful to all those who helped out, including the MCs who guided the competition’s flow, the members of OSIS (student body) who made sure the event ran smoothly, and the talented Journalistik members who provided coverage throughout the day. She is also thankful for the event’s wonderful judges: ETA Iyesha Belgrave, Universitas Muria Kudus lecturer Ms. Rusiana, and Bu Faiza (ETA Iyesha’s counterpart at SMA NU Al-Ma’ruf); her own counterpart, Ms. Ica; the public speaking coach, Ms. Ita; all of RUS’s dedicated teachers and staff; and everyone else who came to show their support.

Alice Rodi is currently teaching at SMK Raden Umar Said Kudus, Central Java.