In the 2021/2022 academic year, UGM’s Korean Language and Culture Program sent five of its students to participate in an exchange student program abroad. Not only Korea but also Italy was among the destinations for this semester’s exchange students. The universities that hosted the students this time were the University of Padua, Korea University, Kyungpook National University, Jeonbuk National University, and Busan University of Foreign Studies.
Here are their profiles and documentation:
Name: Eiva Nabila Nissrina
Class Year: 2019
Host University: University of Padua
“My initial motivation to apply for and choose Italy was because I wanted a fresh perspective since I had started feeling tired and burnt out with Korean. When I saw the opening for the IISMA program, I was immediately interested in applying, as the requirements weren’t too demanding, and I could fulfill them. Plus, this program is fully funded, which made me even more confident to join. At first, I never expected to be accepted into the IISMA program, let alone at the University of Padua.
I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to exchange in Italy because it’s such a rare chance, especially for students from the Korean Language and Culture Program. This experience has broadened my horizons since I’m not only learning about Korean culture but also directly experiencing and learning about Italian culture. Although I faced a lot of culture shock, I’m happy that I could eventually adapt and feel comfortable living in Padua. I hope my fellow students won’t hesitate to try the IISMA program and also be brave enough to explore countries beyond South Korea.”
Name: Sekar Arum Anugrah Gusti
Class Year: 2018
Host University: Korea University
“Rarely practicing at home and being unable to go anywhere during the pandemic caused my Korean language skills to decline. When I saw the scholarship offer from IISMA, I immediately applied, choosing Korea University. I thought it was a great opportunity to practice my everyday Korean skills while also improving my English, which is used in classes.
Although my departure was delayed by six months due to the pandemic, Alhamdulillah, I finally set foot here. Keep striving for whatever you’re working on, friends. May Allah make it easy for you!”
Name: Maria Tricia
Class Year: 2019
Host University: Kyungpook National University (KNU)
“I decided to study abroad to improve my spoken Korean and, hopefully, enhance my academic writing in Korean during this exchange.”
Name: Amelinda Widhiatasya Anggraeni
Class Year: 2019
Host University: Jeonbuk National University
“What motivated me to go to Korea was my feeling that my skills hadn’t been honed and there was still much room for improvement. So, I took a leap of faith and applied for this program. Honestly, there were times I felt like giving up due to some challenges before departing. But, Alhamdulillah, Allah granted what was best for me, hehe. So, don’t give up, friends! Don’t forget that the support and attention of those around you can also serve as motivation. They’re all invaluable. ❤”
Name: Sylvia Monica
Class Year: 2019
Host University: Busan University of Foreign Studies
“I hope that by joining this exchange program, I can improve my Korean language skills and learn more about Korean culture up close.”
These are the profiles and documentation of the UGM Korean Language and Culture Program students currently participating in the exchange program to expand their knowledge and horizons. May this exchange student program proceed smoothly and benefit all the participants.
