Japanese Literature (SPJL) FCS UB Students Explore A New Perspective Through Student Exchange at Busan University, South Korea
Collaboration between FCS UB and Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS) under the student exchange program becomes a genuine step to stimulate cross-cultural understanding and cultivate skills which are necessary to face the present global challenges. In the current globalization period, cultural exchanges between nations become an important platform to comprehend and cherish the diversity of the world. This time, SPJL students have strode forward in exploring culture through the student exchange program at Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS), South Korea.
In the middle of activity at BUFS, Adkha Alif Sugi Ferdiana has experienced many things that broaden his perspective. Adkha did not only learn about Korean culture and language, but also dive deeper into social, economical and political dynamics in South Korea.
Through an interview, Adkha stated, “This program has opened my eyes about various aspects of life in South Korea. I did not only learn from the textbook, but also daily interaction with local people and foreign friends.”
Adkha participated in this program since September to December 2023. She chose to take Global Business Administration major at BUFS. The courses she took were Marketing, Customer Relationship Management, Electronic Commerce, and Korean Language for Foreigners. It was a new challenge for Adkha to study in a formal class, especially surrounded by friends and lecturers from diverse nations. However Adkha pointed out that all these things were actually enjoyable because of her supportive and kind friends and Professors, as well as an amusing class environment that has never been experienced before.
Besides formal lectures, Adkha also actively explored campus life by participating in the activities such as Gyeongju Trip, Road Theatre and also Chuseok Festival. Not only that, she also joined the Korea-Indonesia student community in Busan whose name is ‘Nongki Busan’, where they were mutually learning language, exchanging culture and sharing experiences.
Adkha also shares, “Four months at BUFS was one of the best times I had in my life. I did not only learn about global business, but also experienced treasured moments in adapting with different environments and building relationships with diverse backgrounds.”
It not only becomes an unforgettable moment, but also helps Adkha to mature personally and academically. Her passion in exploring new culture and facing challenges becomes an inspiration to other students who want to follow her steps in joining student exchanges abroad.
At the end of the interview, Adkha expressed that she failed to obtain this scholarship twice. She felt sad and hopeless at that time, but she was determined to not give up achieving her dreams. In the third attempt, she finally succeeded. She hopes that other SPJL students have the courage and determination to keep fighting for their dreams. Adkha also suggests to keep trying, because nobody knows when the opportunities will come.
(anna)