A Semester in Indonesia: Expanding New Horizons
“My international mobility experience in Jakarta, Indonesia, became an important and exciting stage in my academic journey, opening up a whole new world of education and cultural experiences”. Arina Nefedova, a 2nd-year master’s student in Business Analytics and Big Data Systems program share her experience of studying at Binus University.
Why Indonesia?
When I was offered to join the mobility program, choosing a country was not easy. Indonesia stood out because of its uniqueness. I wanted more than academic experience. I wanted to immerse myself in a completely different culture. Jakarta, with its mix of tradition and modern life, felt like the right place.
Studying at Binus University
Binus University became a strong platform for my academic growth. The university has five large campuses located across Jakarta. They are modern and well equipped with new technologies. The learning environment is comfortable and supportive. Professors are always ready to help and open to discussion, including cultural topics.
The academic system is similar to what I was used to in Russia. There are many practice-oriented courses. They help students apply theory to real projects. This approach is valuable because I can use this knowledge in my future career.
The university also organized many activities for international students. We joined cultural tours around Jakarta and other parts of Indonesia. There were meetings and events that helped us connect and better understand local traditions.
Life in Jakarta: Culture and Food
Jakarta is a huge megacity. It combines skyscrapers and a fast business rhythm with traditional markets, historic temples and cultural landmarks. These two worlds exist side by side and this contrast is impressive.
Food plays a special role in Indonesian culture. It is more than just a meal. It is part of everyday life and tradition. One of my favorite dishes was nasi goreng, a fried rice dish with chicken and spices. I also loved satay, grilled meat served with peanut sauce. Local cuisine is rich in flavor, spices, and aromas. Every meal felt like a small culinary adventure.
Traveling across Indonesia and Neighboring Countries
My time in Indonesia gave me the chance to travel a lot. I visited Bali, Lombok, and Java. Each island has its own atmosphere. Bali is famous for its beaches and culture. Lombok offers beautiful nature and local traditions. Java is known for its ancient temples and vibrant cities.
I also traveled to Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam. These trips helped me better understand cultural differences across Asia. Singapore impressed me with its modern architecture and cleanliness. Malaysia and Vietnam surprised me with their rich history and diverse cultures.
Studying and living in Jakarta was both an academic and personal discovery. I gained knowledge that will support my future career. I also met inspiring people and experienced a new culture. This journey changed my perspective and expanded my horizons. Indonesia combines rapid development with deep traditions. I am sure this experience will stay with me for life.
