UNAIR NEWS – Studying overseas is a dream of every student. This time, an International Relations student of Universitas Airlangga, Jayanti Aarnee Baskoro shared her learning experience at Hanyang University, South Korea, through the Indonesian International Student Mobility Award (IISMA) program.
Initiated by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, the program allows Indonesian students to gain fully-funded learning experiences at the World’s top universities.
To UNAIR NEWS, Aarnee explained that she chose two universities, Korea University and Hanyang University. She got accepted at her second choice, Hanyang University.
In her opinion, choosing the university requires careful consideration. She chose Korea University because she does not have the courage to choose non-Asian countries, and it has the course Aarnee was interested in.
At Hanyang University, Aarnee joined the local student club for international students. She chose SAY.U Student Club, where she got to discuss various topics with the local students for orientation and exploring destinations in South Korea.
“I couldn’t participate in every club or organization due to its limit. However, Hanyang University accommodates us with other clubs for international students,” she added.
Language became Aarnee’s biggest challenge during her stay as South Korea is a non-English spoken country where they use the Hangul alphabet. She learned the language in a Korean language class provided by the university.
The Korean language class aims to help international students join the study club. Several clubs are conducted in Korean language and are limited to international students.
“The facility helps us a lot. By the second or third week, we are able to read traffic signs and brands in food,” Aarnee said.
Besides, she also struggled with the academic culture, where the classes were delivered in full English plus she learned courses outside of her program. However, Aarnee was confident to face the challenges and complete them well in the supportive environment of the university.
She advised students to prepare well for the IISMA. Students must also practice the interview, which was the most important part of the selection. Lastly, students should not hesitate to ask away or request help from the IISMA alumni.
Author: Satrio Dwi Naryo
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
