Studying all the way to China has always been something I’ve heard of but never imagined I would do. However, thanks to the opportunity provided by the faculty through the Student Exchange program, it has become a reality. I am grateful to the Islamic Banking Study Program for entrusting me with the opportunity to participate in this program.

The Student Exchange program is a journey filled with challenges and requires courage. It is not just about physically moving from one place to another, it is about opening the door to a new world, with all its uniqueness and diversity. My journey began on September 14, 2023, alongside 9 other delegations from various study programs, marking the beginning of our adventure. When I first set foot in the country known as the bamboo curtain, a mix of joy and curiosity filled me. Adapting to cultural differences and lifestyles, as well as coping with an unfamiliar language and different food, presented us with significant challenges.

Stepping onto the campus, I felt like I was embarking on a new chapter in my life. The unique style of learning, distinct from that of my home country, not only enriched my academic knowledge but also helped me develop interpersonal skills. Building friendships with students from various countries made me realize that every interaction is a precious cultural exchange, encompassing different festivals and daily habits.

Many of the unforgettable memories were made outside the classroom, such as during the City Tour. We were invited to explore several significant locations in Wuxi, including the WUXI Museum, Huishan Ancient Town, and WUXI Studio. This tour offered a golden opportunity for me to gain a better understanding of the city where I would be spending my time during the program. During this visit, we not only expanded our knowledge of Chinese history and culture but also strengthened our social relationships with fellow participants in the Student Exchange program.

Sports meetings also became one of the impressive extracurricular activities. I had the opportunity to wear batik and proudly hold the Indonesian flag in front of all the local students. Additionally, I participated in a cultural experience where I made a teapot with international students at WUXI Vocational Institute of Art Technology.

In addition to academic activities, I had the opportunity to participate in various extracurricular programs organized within the campus environment. One such example is the Xichen Intangible Cultural Heritage Society, a club I joined to learn about cultural heritage in the field of dance. This club not only provided me with the chance to expand my social network, both within and outside the campus environment, but also offered valuable support for my academic and professional growth in the future. The Student Exchange experience is not just about taking courses abroad, it is about personal growth, the courage to face the new, and understanding that the world is vast, and we are all part of it.