UNAIR NEWS – Experiencing a different academic environment away from home aptly describes the past four months for Akbar Ihza Mahendra. The law student from the Faculty of Law Universitas
Syiah Kuala, Aceh, is currently participating in the Domestic Student Exchange Program with Credit Transfer System (PERMATA-SAKTI) at Universitas Airlangga.
Mahendra was joined by three other students. Three other students are also part of the program: Widya Pratiwi from Universitas Syiah Kuala, as well as Monica Uli Natasia Nababan and Rahim Munandar from Universitas Andalas. According to Mahendra, the program is a collaborative initiative involving several universities and has been running for four years.
“I first learned about the program through my university’s rectorate and decided to apply. At the time, I was asked whether I knew about UNAIR, and I admitted I didn’t. I believe I was selected based on my organizational experience, including my role in the Indonesian Moot Court Community Association (HKPSI) as head of academic and activity divisions,” Mahendra explained.
The four students arrived in Surabaya in early August. Upon arrival, they immediately completed their study plan registration and met with academic advisors. During their studies, Mahendra and his peers noticed several differences compared to their home universities, particularly in the practice-oriented teaching methods, class sizes, classroom environment, and examination systems.
“We didn’t face major difficulties because the lecturers here are
highly competent, making the material easier to understand. Outside the classroom, we were invited to explore Javanese culture and nature through visits to Prambanan Temple, Mount Merapi, and Mount Bromo. I also had the opportunity to attend a public discussion in October,” Mahendra recounted.
Joining communities and exploring Surabaya and beyond
Nababan also shared her experience, who has actively participated in activities beyond academic life. Since joining the program, she has been involved in several community groups, particularly those related
to religious and social engagement, such as the Christian Spiritual Unit (UK3), the Inter-University Christian Fellowship (Perkantas), and the International Christian Assembly.
“I’ve been more involved in off-campus activities, especially with Perkantas Surabaya in Tenggilis. One of their programs includes teaching underprivileged children,” Nababan shared.
The participants also had memorable experiences while exploring Surabaya and its surrounding areas. Mahendra recalled an incident when he borrowed a friend’s motorbike to go for a ride. While passing through a narrow alley, he was stopped by local residents and asked to get off due to a posted sign requiring riders to dismount. Although surprised, he came to understand the local custom, which differed from what he was used to.
“I’ve been planning to try the Suroboyo Bus, but I haven’t found the right time yet, even though I’ve already collected plastic bottles for the fare. There are still many places we want to explore, such as historical sites, cultural performances at Cak Durasim, and nearby cities beyond Madura and Sidoarjo. Hopefully, we can visit them before returning home,” Nababan added.
Both students also encouraged others interested in student exchange programs, whether national or international, to step outside their comfort zones, adapt to new environments, absorb positive experiences, and represent their home regions with pride. (*)
Author: Nabila Amelia
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
