“I am incredibly grateful for the warmth and hospitality I’ve encountered, both in the classroom and in the communities I’ve explored.”
This was the expression of Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC) faculty member Kevin Paul C. Bonotan as he shared an update of his professorial endeavor in Spain on November 23.
Bonotan, who teaches Social Sciences and History at HCDC, is a recipient of the Spanish Embassy’s Language Assistant Program for Filipinos. He is now in his second month of stay in Spain.
“At IES Dionisio Alcalá Galiano and IES Aguilar y Eslava, the passion for learning was evident. The students were enthusiastic, and I enjoyed bringing topics in their Physical Education, Physics, Chemistry, Geography, and Arts in English. I had the chance to share Philippine History integrated in their History Class. The collaborative environment with the faculty encouraged me to grow as a teacher and learn from their teaching styles with the different orientations of students here in Spain,” he said.
He explained that teaching at IES Dionisio Alcalá Galiano and IES Aguilar y Eslava has been a rewarding journey.
“The students’ curiosity and enthusiasm, paired with the collaborative spirit of the teachers, made each day an adventure. Living in Andalusia has not only enhanced my teaching skills but also deepened my appreciation for Spanish culture and history,” Bonotan added.
More than his academic experience, Bonotan also continues to explore the beauty of Spain’s culture and heritage.
“As an auxiliar de conversación in Spain, I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in the culture and history of Andalusia, Spain. Cabra, a charming town nestled between olive groves and the mountains, was where I first truly connected with Andalusian culture,” he said.
“Outside of school, wandering Cabra’s cobbled streets and visiting the Subbética Natural Park gave me a sense of peace and connection with nature. My journey through Cabra, Málaga, Córdoba, and Granada has been nothing short of extraordinary. Here’s a glimpse of my experiences, both in the classroom and beyond,” Bonotan added.
He also expressed his gratitude to the Asesoria de Educacion en Filipinas of the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines and its Education Advisor Beatriz Jimeno Ortas, as well as to HCDC for the opportunity.
“I am excited to share more of my journey. So wait for my next update,” he added.
Bonotan’s academic and cultural endeavor in Spain is among the multi-faceted internationalization initiatives of HCDC to provide a globally-relevant and competent educational experience, not only for students but also for its faculty members.
