Nur Farisyah Rahman and Nurafika Rostan are not just any students; they are trailblazers representing Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) on a one-semester exchange program at Universitas Brawijaya in Malang, Indonesia, during their A241 semester. These ambitious Bachelor of Science in Economics with Honours students have embraced an extraordinary opportunity to broaden their academic and cultural horizons, and their journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Their adventure began on August 14, 2024, when they arrived in Malang, East Java. Greeted warmly by the staff of Universitas Brawijaya, they were quickly immersed in a new environment that promised to challenge and excite them. From their first campus tour to crucial meetings with the university’s International Relations Office, Nur Farisyah and Nurafika have shown remarkable enthusiasm and adaptability, soaking in every bit of knowledge and cultural insight they encounter.
Why is global experience so vital? In today’s interconnected world, it’s no longer enough to excel academically; students must also develop a deep understanding of different cultures, the ability to communicate across borders, and the adaptability to thrive in diverse environments. Nur Farisyah Rahman and Nurafika Rostan are gaining these essential skills through participating in this exchange program, setting themselves apart in the global job market and paving the way for successful futures.
Living in a new country, far from the comforts of home, these students are learning invaluable life lessons. They are navigating new social norms, adapting to a different educational system, and managing the challenges of living independently. Each experience, whether mastering the local language or simply finding their way around campus, builds resilience, independence, and a broader worldview—qualities that serve them well in any future endeavour.
Their time at Universitas Brawijaya is more than just an academic exercise; it’s a journey of self-discovery and growth. Exposure to new perspectives and ideas enriches their understanding of the world, and they are becoming true global citizens, equipped to make meaningful contributions wherever their careers take them.
As Nur Farisyah Rahman and Nurafika Rostan continue to explore, learn, and grow, they make the most of their time abroad and set an example for their peers back at UUM. Their story demonstrates the transformative power of global experience and reminds them of the opportunities that await those who dare to step out of their comfort zones.
We encourage all UUM students to seize similar opportunities for global experience, whether through exchange programs, international internships, or short-term study abroad initiatives. These experiences enrich your academic journey and prepare you for a successful career in our globalised world.
To those currently abroad, like Nur Farisyah and Nurafika at Universitas Brawijaya, we wish you continued success navigating this exciting chapter of your lives. Your experiences today are shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Safe travels, and may you continue to embrace every moment of this incredible journey!
This news was prepared by the Global Experience Unit of the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC), UUM. For information on global experience, visit the CIAC website at http://ciac.uum.edu.my