Vu Minh Anh is among the 1,423 graduates from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), who were celebrated on Wednesday (May 22) at Grha Sabha Pramana.
This Vietnamese student completed her undergraduate studies in the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) in International Relations at the UGM Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (Fisipol UGM), graduating cum laude.
In an interview on Tuesday (May 28), while finishing the administrative process for her diploma at Fisipol UGM, Vu Minh expressed her joy and pride in completing her bachelor’s degree at UGM.
She recalled that choosing to study in Indonesia was a significant decision, especially since she initially faced language barriers and cultural differences that made communication and interaction challenging.
However, she found joy in making new friends from various countries who consistently supported her.
“I am happy; this is one of my life achievements,” said Vu Minh.
Regarding her choice to study at UGM, Vu Minh mentioned that she initially learned about the university from her relatives, who had lived and worked in Indonesia for several years.
“UGM was recommended because it is considered one of Indonesia’s top universities that frequently offers scholarship programs,” Vu Minh recalled, quoting a family member.
Following this recommendation, Vu Minh sought information about UGM scholarships, applied, and was eventually accepted into the IUP in International Relations through the Fisipol UGM ASEAN+1 Scholarship Program (FIAS).
“The offer included full educational funding, a monthly stipend, and cultural studies. So, I decided to take that opportunity,” she explained.
Vu Minh was one of the recipients of FIAS, which provides full funding for eight semesters. The scholarship is available to students from all ASEAN countries and Timor Leste, and three departments offer it: the Department of International Relations, the Department of Public Policy and Management, and the Department of Communication Sciences.
Vu Minh was among the first batch of students to receive this scholarship since its inception in 2021.
For Vu Minh, studying abroad is a precious opportunity not everyone can experience, and not all international universities have the standards to accept international students. Therefore, she felt proud to graduate as an alumnus of Fisipol UGM.
“Fisipol UGM adopts a liberal approach to education. The lecturers here are always ready to guide me, the staff are very accommodating, and the facilities are available whenever I need them,” Vu Minh elaborated.
The orientation programs at Fisipol UGM helped Vu Minh adapt to her new learning environment, residence, and friends. She was also pleased to participate in other activities, such as community service and cultural programs.
“I am very grateful and happy to study here, and I recommend Fisipol UGM to friends who wish to study in Indonesia,” she concluded.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson