The student exchange program is a dream opportunity for many university students. Studying abroad, meeting peers from around the world, and experiencing a different academic environment are invaluable experiences. This was exactly what Salsabila Azzahra Faustine Hermansyah, a student at Diponegoro University, experienced during her Study Abroad program at the University of Pécs, Hungary.

The University of Pécs is a prestigious institution—known as the oldest university in Hungary and home to many international students. One of the main reasons she chose this university was its wide range of courses that aligned with her major at UNDIP. The relatively affordable cost of living and the university’s strategic location in Central Europe also made Hungary an ideal choice for her academic journey. Being centrally located allowed for convenient travel to neighboring countries, adding value to the overall experience.

During the program, she encountered various challenges, particularly in cultural and communication styles. Hungarians tend to be more direct, while she was used to a more subtle communication approach. This created some initial difficulties, especially in classroom discussions and social interactions with locals. However, she remained resilient and adapted by becoming more assertive in class and taking the initiative in conversations. Maintaining an open-minded attitude proved to be a crucial factor in helping her adjust.

Her academic background in Intercultural Communication, a course she had taken at UNDIP, provided a strong foundation in understanding and navigating cultural differences. This knowledge equipped her to handle real-world challenges effectively during her exchange.

Building on her international exposure, she also secured an internship at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Budapest, working in the Information, Social, and Cultural Affairs division. The internship gave her meaningful insights and hands-on experience that supported her career development. Her responsibilities included compiling the embassy’s kaleidoscope report, acting as a public relations liaison for both official and non-official communication, and participating in strategic discussions with embassy partners. Additionally, she was given the opportunity to prepare a report on Hungarian market intelligence, which involved applying her research skills to analyze the profile, characteristics, and current economic relations between Indonesia and Hungary.

These exchange and internship experiences significantly contributed to her personal and professional growth. Beyond academic knowledge, she gained valuable lessons from volunteering and hands-on work, which enhanced her adaptability and expanded her professional network. For her, stepping out of her comfort zone and being open to new experiences were essential keys to personal development.

She encouraged other students to take similar opportunities by doing thorough research on their destination countries—understanding their culture, norms, and habits to better adapt. She emphasized the importance of not being afraid to explore new things, as these experiences are where true learning and growth occur.

While living abroad is not without its challenges, including moments of homesickness, it remains one of the most valuable chapters in one’s life. She concluded by encouraging others to embrace every opportunity, enjoy the journey, and become stronger and more prepared to face the world.