by Mikee N. Norico, BA Comm-4, Centralian Link Intern
Indonesian exchange students extend their heartfelt gratitute for their transformative journey at CPU.
Central Philippine University (CPU) has opened its doors to three vibrant Indonesian exchange students, each bringing with them a unique perspective and a thirst for new experiences. Kezhia Margaretha Sitompul, Kharin Angela Kristi, and Yunielvin Harefa share their insights and reflections on their transformative journey at CPU.
Upon arriving at CPU, Kezhia Margaretha Sitompul, 21 years old, Kharin Angela Kristi, 20 years old, and Yunielvin Harefa, 21 years old, were greeted with warmth and hospitality, setting the tone for their exchange experience. While excitement and nervousness filled the air, they found solace in the serene environment and the friendly faces around them.
CPU Office of the President welcomed the exchange students from Petra Christian University, Indonesia.
“I feel very excited because this is my first time going abroad and with the aim of studying. When I arrived at CPU, I liked seeing the natural environment, not too much pollution, and the atmosphere was calm. And I think the weather will be very favorable for me to enjoy living here,” Kezhia said.
Navigating through cultural nuances and academic differences, the Indonesian students found themselves gradually adapting to life at CPU. Despite initial challenges such as language barriers and culinary adjustments, the welcoming nature of the university community eased their transition.
“It has been 2 months since I was here in the Philippines. There are a lot of adjustments to make, like the food, the culture, the school, etc. But, I feel very welcome here. I do feel that people are so nice and welcoming to me. The university community also welcomed me and helped me when I felt confused. So, it was not easy to adjust but I can manage because of how welcoming and warm people are here,” Kharin said.
Immersing themselves in Filipino culture, the exchange students found themselves captivated by traditions like the Dinagyang Festival and the rich tapestry of dances and songs. Their curiosity extended beyond campus as they ventured into the local cuisine, eager to savor the flavors of the Philippines.
“There are many things that make an impression on me. One of them is that I can take part in Dinagyang activities which show Filipino culture, such as traditional dances. I really enjoyed exploring this. Moreover, I came to the event together with classmates who were close to me and a lecturer who also kindly accompanied us to the event,” Yunielvin said.
From classroom dynamics to examination formats, Kezhia, Kharin, and Yunielvin noted distinct differences between the education systems in Indonesia and the Philippines. While CPU emphasized a structured approach with frequent assessments, they appreciated the emphasis on holistic development and extracurricular activities.
“In Indonesia, especially in Petra Christian University, we use technology in almost every aspect. For example, we always bring out laptops to take notes while in Central Philippine University we use paper and pen. The education system in Central Philippine University focuses on the individual, and they have a dean list or rank that is shown on the board; we do not have ranks in Petra Christian University,” Kharin said.
From attending classes to exploring the city, the exchange students shared a glimpse into their daily routines. Balancing academics with leisure activities, they cherished moments of camaraderie with fellow students and cherished the friendships forged along the way.
From visa hurdles to language barriers, the journey wasn’t without its obstacles. However, through resilience and support from their peers, they overcame these challenges, emerging stronger and more confident in their abilities.
From festival celebrations to heartfelt gestures of kindness, Kezhia, Kharin, and Yunielvin recounted unforgettable moments that left a lasting impression. Whether it was being embraced by the CPU community during festivities or receiving unwavering support from friends, these experiences enriched their exchange journey.
Reflecting on their time at CPU, the exchange students acknowledged the profound impact it had on their personal and academic growth. From fostering independence to broadening their perspectives on education, each day brought new opportunities for learning and self-discovery.
As their exchange program draws to a close, Kezhia, Kharin, and Yunielvin offer words of wisdom to future exchange students. They encourage embracing every moment, cherishing the diversity of experiences, and approaching challenges with an open heart and mind.
“Becoming an exchange student is a dream for many students. Coming to a place where the environment is different in terms of culture, customs, and language is a challenge that can be really enjoyed. But being an exchange student is not just a dream come true, but an opportunity to experience God more. For future exchange students, I hope that you can prepare yourself better. Actually, this is a very short process; enjoy every moment during student exchange to learn, be blessed, and experience God,” Yunielvin said.
The story of Kezhia, Kharin, and Yunielvin exemplifies the transformative power of cultural exchange. Through their journey at Central Philippine University, they not only expanded their horizons but also forged lifelong connections across borders, embodying the spirit of unity in diversity.