On 30 August 2024, the Microbiology Students Association (PERMAHAMI) held its latest academic discussion event, “Bincang Bareng Keilmuan” (BBK), titled “Study Abroad: Expanding Horizons through Education.” The event, which took place in the KPTU Room of Building A1 at the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), saw the participation of 30 attendees from the Department of Agricultural Microbiology.
The discussion featured two guest speakers, Zikra Fathin Nabila and Sausan Syadzafie Shafar, both recipients of the ASEAN International Mobility for Students (AIMS) 2023 scholarship. They shared their valuable experiences from their student exchange programs in Japan and South Korea.
Zikra Fathin Nabila, a 2021 Agricultural Microbiology student, participated in an exchange program at Ibaraki University, Japan. She discussed her preparations for the trip, including visa, passport, and other essential documentation. At Ibaraki University, Zikra engaged in discussion-based learning models and field studies, which included agricultural harvesting activities. She also conducted independent research in a laboratory provided by the university.
Sausan Syadzafie Shafar, also a 2021 Agricultural Microbiology student, spent her exchange period at Gyeongsang National University (GNU) in South Korea. Sausan described her experiences at GNU, which offered comprehensive campus facilities such as a library, laboratories, cafeteria, and dormitories. Her coursework included classes in languages, wood physics, and agricultural economics. In addition to academics, Sausan actively participated in various campus festivals and community events.
Ir. Donny Widianto, Ph.D., Head of the Department of Agricultural Microbiology, opened the BBK event and emphasized the importance of such sharing sessions. He noted that these events are crucial for inspiring and informing students about how to secure exchange scholarships.
“I appreciate PERMAHAMI for organizing such events. For new and junior students, these sessions are essential as they provide motivation and insight into how to apply for exchange programs,” said Dr. Donny.
The BBK session was formatted as a talk show, where both speakers interacted directly with participants, answered questions, and provided motivation. Radea Adi Prasetyo, the event’s chief organizer, highlighted the significance of the event for Agricultural Microbiology students, noting the growing interest in student exchange programs. She hoped the event would offer clearer insights into studying abroad and motivate participants to implement the knowledge gained.
“The BBK was very motivating and taught us that studying abroad is not an impossible goal,” Radea commented.
Desi Utami, S.P., M.Env.Sc., Ph.D., a lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Microbiology, concluded the event by emphasizing the importance for undergraduate students to gain international exposure. She suggested starting by being a student buddy for international students at the Faculty of Agriculture. Dr. Desi also highlighted the benefits of participating in exchange programs, which enhance academic quality, build global networks, and provide insights into agricultural practices in other countries. Many alumni have reported significant benefits from these programs, including improved skills and expanded career opportunities.
The Bincang Bareng Keilmuan event by the Department of Agricultural Microbiology exemplifies the implementation of SDGs No. 4: Quality Education and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Reporter: Dwi Nur Cahyani
Editor: Desi Utami