AMINEF'S unfair treatment

I went to the American-Indonesian Exchange Foundation (AMINEF) recently to find out more about a Fulbright scholarship, which I had read about on the Internet. The scholarship is for 1999/2000. Due date for applications is July 31. It was stated that to get an application form I would have to give a copy of my curriculum vitae (CV). Then, to be selected, it is required that all applicants insert a letter of reference from a former lecturer and supervisor at work, and a copy of one's TOEFL test score with the application form.

To my surprise, a female employee said something that confused me. She told me that the CV had to be reviewed two days before I could get the application form. Also, I had to ask for a letter of reference from my rector and my work supervisor. I was confused because it was written that a letter of reference from a former lecturer was needed. Everybody knows that lecturer in English does not only mean a rector but also our teacher at college.

Last of all, and this is what I am criticizing most, despite my assurances that I could hand in all the documents before July 31, she assured that it would be impossible for me to complete all documents required. Actually, I could meet the deadline.

Another woman applicant told me that she was given the application form even though she did not submit her CV. Not only that, she was permitted to complete the documents the following week.

I always of think America as a fair and honest country, but what I experienced showed differently. A big institution like AMINEF should be fair in dealing with the public and give reliable explanations.

NURHAYA

Jakarta