Three determined students from Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) have taken a bold step in their academic careers by participating in a one-semester exchange program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Muhammad Afiq Bin Saedon, Zahidah Binti Mohammed Edries, and Nur Jannatun Najla Binti Alizan are not only representing UUM but are also immersing themselves in a unique cultural and educational experience that promises to shape their futures.
Their journey began on August 9th and 11th, 2024, when they arrived at Kulon Progo International Airport in Yogyakarta. After a scenic two-hour drive, they settled into their accommodations at Ratnaningsih Kinanti and Dharmaputra Santren UGM, conveniently located just 10 minutes from the UGM campus. The warm welcome and seamless transition into their new environment set the stage for an enriching semester.
On August 16th, the students attended the International Student Orientation at UGM's Grha Sabha Pramana Hall. This orientation, organized by UGM’s Office of International Affairs (OIA), provided them with crucial insights into Yogyakarta's academic landscape and lifestyle. The session included valuable sharing opportunities with international students who had previously studied at UGM, offering a firsthand perspective on what to expect during their stay.
Course registration at UGM was online through the Simaster app on August 5th, well before classes commenced on August 12th. This early preparation allowed our UUM students to familiarize themselves with their surroundings and ensure a smooth start to their academic endeavours. Thanks to the support of their "buddies," local UGM students assigned to assist them, they encountered no difficulties in locating their lecture rooms and navigating their new academic environment.
The "buddy" system at UGM has been particularly beneficial, providing Muhammad Afiq, Zahidah, and Nur Jannatun with a support network beyond academics. These local friends have been instrumental in helping them adjust to life in Yogyakarta, answering questions and offering guidance on academic and cultural matters.
As these students continue their journey at UGM, they are gaining academic knowledge and life lessons that contribute to their growth as global citizens. Their experience highlights the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing the opportunities that come with global engagement.
We encourage all UUM students to consider similar opportunities for global experience, whether through exchange programs, international internships, or other study-abroad initiatives. These experiences enrich your academic journey and prepare you for a successful career in our increasingly interconnected world.
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