Yolanda Marcela Binambuni, an English student of Universitas Dian Nuswantoro, ambitiously garnering priceless accomplishments. Currently, Yolanda has successfully become an Awardee in the 2023 Indonesian International Student Mobility (IISMA) program.

Through the program, she became one of the representatives from Udinus to engage in a student exchange program at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. The international student exchange program was initiated by the Ministry of Education and the Higher Education Service Institution (LLDIKTI).

During her interview, Yolanda expressed her utmost pleasure and pride for her success. Moreover, she also revealed that her current success served as a redemption for her previous failures in the same program. She uttered that her student exchange program would last for four months starting in July.

“I chose to participate in this program, as I have never stepped foot in other countries, and it has always been my desire to travel the world. At last, my hardships and struggles came to fruition after all these years. I would think that if you cannot go to foreign countries with your money, try using your wits and knowledge,” Yolanda explained.

In addition to engaging in a student exchange program, Dr. Ir. Dwi Eko Waluyo, M.M., the Head of the Bureau at Udinus, explained that through the IISMA program, students could also learn the history and traditional cultures owned by the destined country. Moreover, he also revealed that Yolanda became the representative from the campus, and roughly 8.267 students from many different universities in Indonesia had registered for the program.

“Furthermore, students who succeed in registering for this program would be tasked to host a cultural event known as ‘Culture Week,’ which would serve as an introduction to Indonesian culture for foreigners. Hopefully, Yolanda could contribute more to the public, particularly to Udinus and Central Java,” he explained.

At the IISMA program, students must undergo two selection processes, including academic and interview tests. The program provides an opportunity for Indonesian students to study at an internationally acclaimed university. By participating in this program, students are expected to contribute more to the public, particularly in the field of education. (Humas Udinus/Alex. Foto: Dok. KUI)