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Improving your English as an International Student

Improving your English as an International Student
Reading Time: 2 minutes

In 2024, approximately 1.52 billion people worldwide speak English, highlighting its importance as a vital learning tool, especially for international students. English plays a significant role in communication, understanding academic material, and connecting with peers. However, Improving English can often be challenging and overwhelming at the beginning. To tackle these difficulties, students can adopt various strategies to enhance their English skills. This approach allows them to make substantial progress and effectively address their obstacles.

Immerse Yourself in the Language

One of the most effective ways for international students to improve their English is through immersion in the language. They should aim to surround themselves with English as much as possible by speaking the language throughout the day. Additionally, students should engage in conversations with classmates, friends, and lecturers. The key is to make English an integral part of their daily lives and to expose themselves to it as often as possible. Although it may take time to adjust to this change, consistent practice will lead to faster improvement in their language skills.

Use Academic and Online Resources

Students are encouraged to utilize the resources available to them. They will likely have access to workshops, academic lectures, and university clubs, all of which can help improve their writing, grammar, and speaking skills. Taking advantage of these tools can enhance their language proficiency and help them focus on challenging areas.

Practice Consistently and Track Your Progress

Consistency is essential when learning English. Set aside time every day for practice. You can write in a journal, record yourself speaking, or even have conversations with native speakers online. Additionally, there are online tools that can help you stay consistent and provide easy access to resources, such as Grammarly and Duolingo. It’s also important to track your progress. Celebrate small achievements, such as learning a new word or writing a clear sentence. Over time, you’ll notice how much you’ve improved.

How These Tips Helped Me as an International Student

Applying these strategies has significantly improved my English skills as an international student. To immerse myself in the language, I actively avoided holding conversations in my native language and instead engaged with more English speakers. This consistent effort allowed me to become comfortable speaking English daily while also building my vocabulary. For academic and online resources, I made use of the English books available in the library and regularly watched YouTube videos for shadowing practice, which enhanced my listening and speaking abilities. Lastly, I developed a routine of writing down my progress and taking weekly quizzes to assess my improvement. Even when I did not see immediate results, I reminded myself to stay positive and not become discouraged, knowing that consistent effort would eventually lead to progress.

Improving their English may require time and dedication from international students, but the benefits are well worth the effort. By immersing themselves in the language, utilizing helpful resources, and practicing regularly, they can make steady progress. Remember, every small step counts. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as they are an essential part of the learning process.

Reference:

International Center for Language Studies. (2024, August 20). Retrieved from https://www.icls.edu/blog/most-spoken-languages-in-the-world

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Why did TikTok Become Gen Z’s Search Engine?

Why did TikTok Become Gen Z’s Search Engine?
Reading Time: 2 minutes

In recent years, the way people search for information has changed significantly. The rapid growth of social media platforms has transformed the search experience by offering quick, visual, and personalized content. Among these platforms, according to the Fix article TikTok has emerged as a go-to source for information, especially for Generation Z.

This generation prefers dynamic and interactive experiences over static ones, making TikTok more than just an entertainment platform for them. The days of relying solely on search engines like Google and libraries are slowly disappearing.

One of the primary reasons Gen Z prefers TikTok as a search engine is the vast variety of content it offers. Unlike traditional search engines that mainly provide text-based links, TikTok presents information in short-form video format, making it more personalized and engaging. This unique approach allows users to access multiple sources for their questions easily.

For Generation Z, who have grown up in the digital age, TikTok is a familiar and effective platform. The content available on TikTok covers a wide variety of topics, including tutorials, life hacks, and in-depth explorations of different interests. Users can find videos on everything from quick meal preparation and study tips to product reviews. TikTok’s algorithm curates personalized feeds, presenting users with content based on their previous interactions, which makes the information they encounter highly relevant and tailored to their interests.

Another reason TikTok works for Gen Z is the trust they place in its content. Many users feel a connection with creators who share relatable, real-life experiences. This authenticity makes TikTok seem more trustworthy than traditional sources, which often feel distant or impersonal. While misinformation is a concern, Gen Z often balances this by cross-checking facts or consulting multiple sources.

Rania is one of Gen z, she said that ‘She thinks that most of the gen z can’t stand reading for hours or watching long videos to get information, Tiktok provide really short videos which is good for people that can be distracted easily, also she read in an article that most of gen z suffer from shrinking attention span (Snow, 2023), that make them struggle to finish movies or the books they read overall TikTok is the only platform that catch their attention, and seems to be customized to their needs’’.

In conclusion, TikTok has changed the way Generation Z searches for information. Its fast-paced, engaging format, relatable creators, and authentic content make it an ideal platform for a generation that values speed, simplicity, and trust. As search habits continue to evolve, TikTok’s influence on how we consume information is undeniable.

References:

Marzano, E. (2024, 11 1). Retrieved from The Fix: https://thefix.media/2024/11/1/relatable-real-raw-tiktoks-power-in-news-for-gen-z

Snow, S. (2023, January 16). Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/shanesnow/2023/01/16/science-shows-humans-have-massive-capacity-for-sustained-attention-and-storytelling-unlocks-it/?sh=729b67281a38

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Transforming Yourself Through Reading: Insights From Three Remarkable Books

Transforming Yourself Through Reading: Insights From Three Remarkable Books
Reading Time: 2 minutes

In the realm of self-development, reading is an invaluable tool for personal growth, effective communication, and public speaking. Books offer timeless wisdom and practical strategies that reshape our habits, enhance our interpersonal skills, and help us overcome mental obstacles. Reading a book is like embarking on a thrilling journey through the minds of brilliant thinkers, offering the chance to unlock new perspectives, gain knowledge, and have a spark of endless possibilities within yourself.

This article will explore three insightful books: “Atomic Habits” by James Clear, “Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?” by Julie Smith, and “Surrounded by Idiots” by Thomas Erikson. Each of these books provides transformative lessons to help individuals thrive in their personal and professional lives. We will also discuss the broader significance of reading for personal growth, particularly for university students.

Atomic Habits

Clear’s Atomic Habits emphasizes the power of small, consistent changes to create lasting improvements in our lives. The book introduces the concept of habit stacking and the “4 Laws of Behaviour Change,” which guide readers to make habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying.

Key insights:

The Compound Effect: Tiny, unnoticeable changes compound over time, leading to remarkable transformations.

Identity-Based Habits: Focusing on who you want to become (e.g. a confident speaker) rather than what you want to achieve ensures sustained progress.

Real-life Application: By aligning habits with goals, one can gradually and effectively enhance skills like public speaking and communication.

 Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before

Dr. Julie Smith’s Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? offers practical psychological strategies to tackle mental health challenges and develop resilience. It’s an accessible guide to understanding emotions and maintaining mental well-being.

Key insights:

Emotional Mastery: Learning to regulate emotions can significantly improve interpersonal communication and clarity of thought.

Building Confidence: Tools for overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome are crucial for public speaking and professional success.

Practical Tools: The book provides actionable advice for staying grounded, managing anxiety, and communicating effectively under pressure.

Surrounded by Idiots

In Surrounded by Idiots, Thomas Erikson examines four personality types—Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green—and their influence on communication and relationships. The book clarifies human behaviour  and teaches how to adjust communication styles to suit different personalities.

Key Insights:

Personality Types: Understanding the strengths, weaknesses, and preferences associated with each personality type promotes effective collaboration.

Tailored Communication: Modifying your message to align with the listener’s personality enhances understanding and connection, which is essential for public speaking.

Conflict Resolution: The book offers strategies for resolving misunderstandings and building stronger relationships in both personal and professional contexts.

Reading is a cornerstone of personal growth, offering knowledge, inspiration, and new perspectives. For university students, it is particularly vital as it shapes their academic and professional futures. Through reading, students can develop critical thinking, enhance their communication skills, and build self-confidence. In today’s competitive environment, university students who prioritize reading not only gain a competitive edge but also develop the emotional intelligence and adaptability needed to excel in their careers and relationships.

These three books—Atomic Habits, Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?, and Surrounded by Idiots—offer simple yet powerful tools for personal growth. They teach better habits, emotional resilience, and effective communication. Reading is a key to lifelong learning, and for university students, it’s an essential step toward success in life and work. Start your journey today with these transformative reads!

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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12 IPC Students Join the International Conference ‘Current Development and Prospect of Cooperation Between Indonesia and Russia’

12 IPC Students Join the International Conference ‘Current Development and Prospect of Cooperation Between Indonesia and Russia’
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Several International Program Communications (IPC) UII students had the opportunity to join the international conference ‘Current Development and Prospect of Cooperation Between Indonesia and Russia’ on 18 November 2024 in Yogyakarta.

Nahdhatul Ulama University (UNU) Yogyakarta organized the international conference in collaboration with Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO University).

The academic forum, which was attended by students and lecturers from various universities and practitioners, discussed strategic issues ranging from education, and business, to international cooperation opportunities.

Technically, the participants were divided into groups consisting of various universities. Each group will discuss and create ideas and solutions in response to the most beneficial cooperation potential for Indonesia and Russia.

Quoting from the official website of UNU Yogyakarta, academics from MGIMO University include Dr Nikita Kuklin, Dr Alena Dolgova, and Dr. Kira Tabunova. In general, the material presented was opportunities for cooperation, both in terms of academics related to scholarships in Russia and how to negotiate and communicate with people from various cultural backgrounds.

Ideas Delivered by IPC Students in International Forums

There were 12 IPC students who participated in the forum, one of the participants, Berliana Hafinda, shared her experience at the academic forum.

She got a topic related to logistics, with a team of 7 students from various campuses. In general, logistics is a process that involves planning, implementing, and controlling the flow of goods and information from the point of origin to the point of consumption.

“From the discussion we have done, the urgency of cooperation between Russia and Indonesia in the logistics industry is from the vast opportunities in Indonesia due to the natural conditions and the shape of the archipelago,” Berliana said.

“In addition, why choose Russia, because they have experience in this field. For example, there is GTLogistics as a company that focuses on this field which has advanced technology as well,” she added.

Humaira Lathifah, IPC Batch 2023 explained that the academic forum has relevance to the study of Communication Science, especially about intercultural communication.

“The most prominent thing is intercultural communication. We as participants get to know the cultures that exist in Russia. how is the cultural background and also the cultural differences with us as people who come from Indonesia,” said Humaira.

Regarding the topic at the international conference, the curriculum she studied was able to answer various challenges, ranging from communication strategies to critical thinking.

“As well as the PESTEL and SWOT analysis tasks, these are relevant to the development of corporate communication strategies when looking to enter new markets, as well as some public relations principles. strengthening communication soft skills is also included. public speaking, persuasion, critical thinking are very influential. which is the core of communication skills,” she said.

List of participants:

  1. Clorentia Sherly (Batch 2021)
  2. Berliana Hafinda AS (Batch 2021)
  3. Alifia Syauqillah Arrahman (Batch 2023)
  4. Fabio Danendra (Batch 2023)
  5. Cleodora Faustina (Batch 2023)
  6. Amelia Putri (Batch 2023)
  7. Humaira Lathifah (Batch 2023)
  8. Muhammad Fathurrahman Prima Sakti (Batch 2023)
  9. Muhammad Atha Damario (Batch 22)
  10. Spica Fijriyani S (Batch 22)
  11. Ahmad Jamaludin NurFahmi (Batch 22)
  12. Musdalifah (Batch 22)
  13. Muhammad Aranbagus (Batch 22)

All participants took turns presenting their ideas, in general they mentioned cooperation opportunities to the most profitable industries that could be collaborated between Indonesia and Russia.

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Gender Equality and The Responsibility of Social Media

gender equality
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Gender equality is fundamentally a human right. It means that all individuals regardless of their gender, race, or class should have equal opportunities, rights, and dignity in society. Beyond being a moral obligation, gender equality is essential for creating peaceful communities, unlocking human potential, and improving lives. In today’s digital era, social media has emerged as one of the most powerful tools for promoting gender equality.

Social media provides a platform for individuals to share their stories and experiences, which fosters advocacy, raises awareness, and drives systemic change. Its global reach and accessibility have contributed to significant shifts in how gender equality is perceived and addressed around the world.

Social media plays a significant role in promoting gender equality by offering a platform for marginalized groups.  For example, hashtags like #HeForShe and #EqualPay have sparked widespread discussions and mobilized action worldwide. Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok enable users to share personal experiences of discrimination and success stories, amplifying diverse voices.

For instance, the #MeToo movement, which originated in Hollywood, became a global phenomenon that exposed systemic harassment and discrimination across industries, including sports, media, and academia. It not only encouraged survivors to share their stories but also led to changes, such as stricter workplace harassment policies in countries like the United States, India, and France. Similarly, the #HeForShe campaign launched by UN Women encouraged men to take an active role in advocating for gender equality and challenging traditional gender norms.

Social media makes a significant contribution to gender equality, but it also has risks. One major issue is misinformation. When false information spreads, it can create confusion and harm the cause of gender equality. Also, insensitive posts can reinforce stereotypes or make light of serious issues, which can hurt people’s understanding of gender issues. For instance, false claims about gender pay gaps or exaggerated statistics on women’s participation in politics can undermine efforts for equality. In some cases, such misinformation is intentionally spread by groups opposing gender rights movements. This creates mistrust and diverts focus from real issues.

Another critical challenge is the prevalence of online harassment and hate speech. Platforms like Instagram and Twitter often become breeding grounds for trolls who target individuals advocating for gender equality. Survivors of gender-based violence, in particular, face threats, victim-blaming, and silencing tactics that discourage them from speaking out. For example, many women who share their experiences with harassment or assault online report receiving abusive comments, which can retraumatize survivors and deter others from joining the conversation.

To address these challenges, a multi-faceted approach is required:

  1. Platform Responsibility: Social media companies must take greater responsibility in moderating content. Implementing stricter policies against hate speech, increasing transparency in algorithm design, and promoting educational campaigns can create a safer online environment.
  2. Government Regulation: Governments can play a role in regulating online harassment by enacting and enforcing laws that protect individuals from cyberbullying, hate speech, and gendered abuse.
  3. Community Support: Encouraging online communities to support marginalized voices and report abusive behavior can help build a more inclusive digital space. Initiatives that celebrate positive narratives and allyship can shift othe nline discourse in a constructive direction.

Despite challenges posed by online harassment, and misinformation social media remains a vital tool for empowering people, allowing them to share their experiences and advocating for their rights. Ultimately, Its potential to unite people and challenge societal norms makes it essential for achieving gender equality.

 

References:

Transparency: The First Step to Fixing Social Media

How should social media platforms combat misinformation and hate speech?

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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The 5th Annual Workshop on Globalization 2024: Voices for Change ‘Media’s Role in Ending Gender-Based Violence’

AWG
Reading Time: 3 minutes

It was recorded that throughout 2024 the number of reports of sexual violence cases collected by the Ministry of PPPA reached 23,294 cases. Of these, women are the most victims with a percentage reaching 86 per cent. (Data up to 20 November 2024)

Ironically, gender-based violence does not stop at that issue. The media has a big role, one of which is by publishing articles whose language actually complicates and normalizes gender-based violence (GBV).

Numbers and facts cannot be underestimated, to respond to gender-based violence (GBV) the International Program Communication (IPC) held The5th Annual Workshop on Globalization 2024 which took the topic Voices for Change ‘Media’s Role in Ending Gender-Based Violence’ on 19 November 2024 at Main Library UII.

This topic explores the intersection of globalization, feminism, and media in shaping gender-based violence (GBV) and its impact on women’s empowerment.

How Media’s Role in Ending Gender-based Violence?

Interestingly, this workshop did not only present perspectives from women’s voices, but also from men’s voices. The three speakers presented included Dr. Katrin Bandel (Faculty member of the Department of Cultural Studies, Sanata Dharma University, International Scholar with expertise in media and gender studies), Indiah Wahyu Andari (Director of Rifka Annisa Women’s Crisis Center, a gender specialist with expertise in gender-based violence), and Iwan Awaluddin Yuyuf, Ph.D. (Faculty member of the Department of Communications, Universitas Islam Indonesia, an expert on media and gender studies).

Dr. Katrin Bandel delivered a presentation on ‘Sexual Violence Narratives in the Mass Media and in Fiction’. She explained how the narratives in the media are more likely to tell things that do not consider the trauma of victims to be unbalanced.

Sexual violence is an experience that ruins the victim’s life, it is also tough to tell. However, at the same time, the media actually makes news that explores the profile of the perpetrator and compares his condition with the victim. Until the public is led to sympathize with the future of the perpetrator if they receive severe punishment.

“But even therapeutic or feminist narratives can become problematic, if they are normalized, so that a rape victim not fitting into the narrative feels marginalized and not represented,” she said.

In addition, rape culture normalizes rape and sexual violence through the assumption that it is normal for men to be very aggressive and unable to control their desires. Unfortunately, another habit is victim blaming for the victim’s appearance, accusing the victim as a provocateur for the perpetrator’s actions.

This statement is supported by research conducted by Iwan Awaluddin Yusuf, Ph.D, the media in Indonesia in publishing GBV news often journalists use titles that are not in accordance with the context.

‘The problem starts with the use of words. Double victimization’ he said.

In the context of sexual violence against child victims, the choice of words that should use the phrase ‘rape and sexual abuse’ instead chooses ‘planning sex’. In the choice of words, children who should be positioned as victims instead seem to be sexual subjects.

By giving various examples of inappropriate word choice, he said that the position of journalists as important figures in the media should be a fair figure.

‘Journalists as mindful users of language, fix the misused word,’ he said again.

Indiah Wahyu Andari, a professional who has been helping GBV victims for years, said that the role of the media is very large. One of them is through GBV preventive campaigns.

She shared three stages of prevention, first primary prevention which refers to activities to do before sexual violence occurs through stopping conditions that support sexual violence and promoting positive behaviors to prevent sexual violence.

Then there is secondary prevention, which is the immediate response after sexual violence occurs to prevent and address both short-term and long-term impacts on victims through things like reporting, case handling, and recovery.

Finally, tertiary prevention is activities to prevent the recurrence of violence. Building structures, norms, and social practices that prevent the risk of recurrence of violence.

The hope is that the workshop will be able to offer a global perspective. The dual role of the media in perpetuating and overcoming violence against women, and the important role of feminist activism in shaping media narratives and promoting women’s empowerment.

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The Power of Youth: Making the World a Better Place for Everyone

The Power of Youth: Making the World a Better Place for Everyone
Reading Time: 2 minutes

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) are 17 agreements signed by 193 countries in 2015 to transform the world by 2030. Its ultimate goal is to create a better world where sustainability, safety, and equality drive our decisions. In our current economy, the majority are young people. They are known as the most flexible and adaptable generation and are also a major source of innovation and creativity. Their role in a country’s progress and prosperity shows how important it is for them to contribute to sustainable development.

Youth involvement is crucial for a sustainable future, as they bring fresh ideas, motivation, and commitment. They approach problems with a different outlook and creative solutions; having such skills would make their involvement more effective. Plus, they are skilled with digital tools and social media, allowing them to spread awareness and mobilize communities on a global scale. As this generation will face the longest-lasting impacts of today’s decisions, this makes their involvement more effective in solving today’s challenges.

Since there are significant global challenges that impact their future, young people should become involved in the sustainability movement. For instance, there have been serious weather occurrences due to the approximately 1.1°C increase in global temperatures since pre-industrial times; in 2019 alone, 344 natural disasters caused $150 billion in damages. Animal populations have declined by an average of 68% since 1970 as a result of habitat degradation, which is also hurting wildlife. Furthermore, air pollution affects many people’s health, particularly in underprivileged areas, and causes about 7 million early deaths annually.

With a global rate of roughly 13.7% as of 2022, youth unemployment is another issue that makes it more difficult for young people to find employment. Youth may address these urgent issues by becoming involved in the sustainability movement. By joining the sustainability movement, youth can help tackle these pressing issues and work for a healthier and fairer planet for everyone.

How can the youth be involved and what are the outcomes of youth contribution

Youth can be involved in existing youth-led movements or organizations, such as the global youth biodiversity network, which empowers young people to influence biodiversity policies and initiatives. These platforms provide chances for the youth to collaborate and take collective action toward sustainability goals. Another way is by engaging in educational programs that focus on sustainability. They equip young people with the necessary skills. Knowledge and networks effectively contribute to sustainable development.

Increasing the involvement of young people in sustainable development fosters creative ideas and raises awareness of important problems like inequality and climate change. By promoting inclusivity and attending to the needs of excluded groups, their active participation fosters social unity and increases community resilience. Youth engagement also increases accountability in governance, develops intergenerational cooperation, and empowers young leaders. All things considered, their different points of view and abilities have a big influence on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and help create a more sustainable future for everybody.

Young participation in sustainable development is essential to a brighter future. In order to address problems like inequality and climate change, young people provide new perspectives and a strong sense of justice. They create major improvements and reinforce communities by participating in local initiatives and promoting change. In order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, it is important that we support the voices of young people. By investing in their involvement, we can create a more sustainable world for everyone.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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How Goal Setting and Time Management Can Transform Students Success

Time management
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Graduating from school to university presents both excitement and challenges. School life offers structured schedules, guidance from parents and teachers, while university life offers freedom, independence, and responsibility, requiring students to learn crucial skills.

During their first year, students should develop time management and goal-setting skills to balance personal and academic lives, create direction, and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

First-year students usually struggle with the new demands of university life. It is challenging for them to manage their time effectively between classes, study, do extracurriculars, and manage their personal lives; moreover, these students who still have not developed any kind of skills usually spend their time on unimportant tasks and then end up stressing about the delayed ones. To navigate these obstacles and have a smoother university life, students should start working on their fundamental soft skills and focus more on the two main skills.

The importance of time management:

A big workload and no clear structure make managing time essential, especially during the first year. “Time management is the process of planning, organizing, and prioritizing tasks and activities to make the best use of your time. It involves setting goals, creating schedules, and making conscious choices about how to allocate your time to various tasks and responsibilities”. Students who use their time wisely will be able to finish tasks without hurrying at the last minute and keep up with their class while also making time for hobbies, friends, and rest, leading to a balanced university life.

Time-blocking is one of the effective techniques for time management; it involves focused work periods followed by breaks. For example, a student may set aside two hours each day to study and take brief breaks to unwind. This method helps keep focus and prevents tiredness. As a first-year student, this method was a turning point for me. It effectively helped me to set my priorities right and have enough time to finish my list without stressing.

Why Goal Setting is Essential:

Goal setting is a skill that involves identifying a specific target or outcome, breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks, and setting a timeline. It also plays a significant role as an aspect of time management and as a fundamental soft skill. It increases motivation and

Based on the workshop “Goal Setting & Time Management” delivered by Miss Wanadya Ayu Krishna Dewi on October 28, I learned about the SMART method. This approach to setting goals involves making sure that each goal is:

  1. Specific: Clearly defining what you want to achieve.
  2. Measurable: Ensuring there are criteria to track progress and completion.
  3. Achievable: Setting realistic goals within your reach.
  4. Relevant: Aligning goals with your broader objectives and values.
  5. Time-bound: Having a clear deadline or timeframe for each goal.

This workshop provided me with practical tools for goal setting and time management, which I can apply in my personal and professional life.

University is a place where students can turn their challenges into opportunities, but this transformation occurs when they are dedicated to improving their experience. They should view it as a chance for personal growth and to build a successful future for themselves.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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How to get a Scholarship in Abroad: My experience with FGLS in Indonesia

How to get a scholarship in Abroad: My experience with FGLS in Indonesia
Reading Time: 2 minutes

I had that dreamed of studying abroad as a way to achieve my goals of being independent, seeing the world, and experiencing different cultures for a long time. The thought thrilled me, but I realized that securing a scholarship was the only way to make it happen. My journey, nevertheless, was more difficult than I had thought. I imagined that if I worked hard to look for and apply for scholarships, no matter how modest, I would undoubtedly be awarded one. However, reality was very different.

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It provide access to a high-quality education, and it also broadens your vision, offers new perspectives, and gain personal growth. It exposes you to experiences and challenges that you wouldn’t experience  in your home country, making it truly unique.

I started looking for scholarships while I was still in school, but I only began applying during my gap year. I applied to more than thirteen scholarships, got accepted for only one, and never heard back from most of the others. I spent days researching trustworthy scholarships, dealing with complicated application requirements, and filling out long forms. These little disappointments made me feel like applying for more scholarships was a waste of time. Looking back now, I see that my lack of understanding about the scholarship process made it more difficult than it had to be.

I was so thrilled and excited when I got the acceptance email from Universitas Islam Indonesia. It felt unbelievable after the hard work and frustration. I made my sister read it out loud to make sure I’m not dreaming. The happiness I felt at that moment was worth every effort and the time taken to get there.

If you want to make your application process  goes smoother, here are a few tips :

  1. Identify scholarships that goes with your interests and eligibility.
  2. Start your applications early
  3. Prepare thoroughly for interviews and application process.
  4. Don’t hesitate to look out for guidance if you feel unsure.

Remember to give your best effort in every step of the application process.

I’d like to share some information about the scholarship that I received. It is called the Future Global Leaders Scholarship from Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII). It offers a wide range of International Program (IP), and opens applications once a year. Students who are accepted are required to take a one-month Bahasa Indonesia (BIPA) class before the academic year begins. Be sure to check the link below for more details on this opportunity.

It is, therefore, without doubt that getting a scholarship to study abroad is always a hard process but the outcome, the personal and academic gains all make it worthwhile. Do not let challenges deter you, instead let the challenges be the very reason you push forward to achieve your goals.

More information:

https://pmb.uii.ac.id/international/scholarships/

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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A Unique Perspective: Attending INCOMS as an International Student

A Unique Perspective: Attending INCOMS as an international student
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Going to study abroad forces students to adapt quickly. Starting from language differences to cultures that we never knew before. Thrya from Yemen tells us about her experience in a very lively welcome ceremony. She felt different, but she found a new perspective.

 

When I signed up for INCOMS 2024, an event hosted by Universitas Islam Indonesia and the Communications Department. Its focus was on giving an “Introduction to Communications” and as someone studying the field, I was excited to dive in. There was something that made me hesitate whether to participate or not being the only international student there.

Later on, this made my experience both thrilling and a bit overwhelming. The theme, “A Piece of Tone!” immediately caught my attention. It felt like a call to explore the many layers of communication in today’s world. From the warm welcome of the local students to the insightful sessions, INCOMS was much more than just an event, it was a chance to see Communications in action across cultures and perspectives.

On the first day, we reached the villa. Then we started with an alumni talk show, he discussed and shared his experience and advice with the freshmen students. The day continued with introduction to important organizations like HIMAKOM and Ikonisia TV, and then it was followed by incredible films made by students that showcased real-life stories. The day ended with lively, differently, and culturally performances highlighting student talents.

On the second day, participants started with Fajr prayer, followed by morning group workouts. Then the jamaah played interactive and fun games. Lastly, the event wrapped up with awards, a group photo, and a heartfelt closing ceremony.

What stood out for me the most at the INCOMS was the Wonderland Indonesia performance. It was such a breathtaking and rich performance. The music was a mesmerizing blend of modern and traditional sounds, featuring instruments like dumps, classes, and cups, which add a rhythmic complexity. The voices of the performers resonated with the song’s emotions perfectly and carried the energy of the whole performance. They wear their traditional clothes, which add a special touch and a beautiful representation of cultural diversity.

Another astonishing aspect is the energy of the performers and the dynamic group singing in harmony. It was impossible not to feel their passion, pride, and love for their country. As the show ended, I found myself completely impressed by the music, costumes, and energy of the performers. It also gives me a deeper sense of appreciation for the culture and the people who represent it beautifully.

Culture shock

One particular moment of cultural shock that I remember most was having breakfast at 7 a.m. The food served was traditional Indonesian food, some of which I had never tried before. The dishes were delicious, but the idea of me starting my day by eating rice for breakfast was new to me. These little experiences, though minor, taught me about the eating culture in Indonesia and how it is different from my country. For us, we usually start our first meal at 9, and it mostly consists of bread and legumes. That is why it was completely new to me.

I would say attending this event could also be considered to be a culture shock because the welcoming parties and events that are usually held for freshman students are not a common thing in my country. Universities always start right away with the curriculum without having any briefing about the major or engaging events with other students, and that makes their adaptation to university life a bit harder.

Impact of the Event

Even though this event was completely in Bahasa Indonesian, the side discussions and casual conversations were too; however, I was surprised by the fact that most of the students tried their best to not make me feel left out and to accompany me. They used to translate most of the information on the event, my role in the film, and many other things. Going through this experience made me feel that there was room for international students in such events, and there was a space for them to step out of their comfort zone and engage with a new academic and cultural environment.

Attending INCOMS as the only international student was both a challenge and an opportunity. The event not only enhanced my academic experience but also allowed me to experience Indonesian hospitality and culture in a way I hadn’t before.

My advice for international students attending such events is to fully enjoy the experience. There will be moments of culture shock or language barriers, these challenges are growth opportunities. Be open to engage with local students and professionals, and take advantage of such great events. Good luck to you all.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita