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