Studying abroad has special meaning

Studying abroad has special meaning

Every year, several Indonesian students travel abroad
in order to obtain their bachelor, master and Ph.D
degrees. There are several advantages in obtaining or continuing
their studies abroad.

First of all, is the experience of assimilating with an
environment that is quite different compared with the one in
Indonesia, especially in the developed West, where life is quick
and the system more complicated.

Another is the difference in systems, such as the
education, administration, politics and lifestyle of the
community the student is involved in. Assimilating with the
foreign community, mainly the academic community, gives the
opportunity for one to adapt, compete, transfer or receive new
experiences through direct communication, observation and
involvement. When returning, they will not only have learned new
experiences, but will be affected, maybe intensely, by the
culture they were in.

One's way of thinking, talking and planning depends on their
intellect and experiences. And with overseas experience, not only
may they be involved in communication, but also activities such
as research. Once they return, they will practice what they have
learned abroad.

Many say that obtaining overseas degrees will give a
perception of quality, prestige and respect due to the academic
accomplishment achieved in the study and many will be
enthusiastic about their presence in the academic world and
in the public.

We have all heard about the "Berkeley Group" during
the New Order or the "Team", which are well known about their
perception and style in planning development in Indonesia.

What is a style? Style may be defined as "looks" as Americans
say, the way one talks or thinks. But perceptions are a way of
thinking that is shared by a group, which may be part of the
system.

Why are overseas experiences so important, or should I say
special? Once an Indonesian student starts his or her first day
in the foreign university, they will have
to communicate in a foreign language, which requires time to
master, not only in communicating but also in explaining, arguing
and persuading. Through communication, the conversation
develops from greetings to story-telling to business
negotiations. Even one who is not experienced in communicating
will be forced to do so in order to keep up with the pace.

Many local students read books, including some in English,
even though there are many who still consider it too difficult to
understand. Others actively participate in campus organizations
and are involved in scientific research, but are they
ready to adapt, assimilate, compete with and outperform their
international counterparts?

NINO MANUWOTO
Bogor, West Java