USK International Student Motivated Senior High School Student to Study Abroad

Under the coordination of the Office of International Affairs, 3 International Students of Universitas Syiah Kuala participated as speakers in the annual school event called Saleum 8, held by Senior High School of MAN 1 Banda Aceh on 13 February 2023. Through the International Talkshow, they shared their study experiences and motivation for students to study abroad and expand their view of the world.

During the sharing session, Toyly Ashyyev, Informatics International Student from Turkmenistan said that students’ motivation and inspiration they got are very important. As the country’s best future generations, they should study hard and pursue their dreams, gain a lot of experience, and get scholarships to study abroad so they can develop their capabilities.

The same idea was also carried out by Mamadou, an English Department student from Senegal. He mentioned that motivation in learning is very significant. It can push someone to be a better human being for society and the country. Moreover, education is one of the keys to being a successful person.

“Let’s take a look at successful people like Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa, Zakir Abdul Karim Naik, Islamic Preacher from India, and others, they are successful people. We have to learn something new every day like them”, he said.

In addition, International Students also shared their experiences during studying at Universitas Syiah Kuala and living in Aceh.

“I am happy to be able to study at Universitas Syiah Kuala. I take FKIP Bahasa Indonesia because I have found similarities between the Indonesian language and my language, which is the Filipino language. Besides, the Indonesian language is one of the international languages that is taught abroad, such as in Australia, that’s why I am interested in learning the language directly in its country, “said Marivic.

“Before I go to Aceh, I did not understand Islam religion, I knew it a little bit. But when I got here, I got a different view. One day I found that all the eating places were closed even though it was mealtime. I had no idea why, but then someone told me that it was due to prayer time. So, I think it is amazing”, she added.

Furthermore, Toyly and Mamadou also have the same impression regarding Muslim Acehnese society, most Acehnese, especially women, wear headscarves or head covers and dress modestly, and that appearance is hard to find in their country.

After the talk show, the Principal of MAN 1 Banda Aceh, that is Nursiah S.Ag., M.Pd. appreciated the international students for their willingness to inspire and encourage students of MAN 1 Banda Aceh.

Meanwhile the Chairman of the Office of International Affairs, Dr. Muzailin Affan, M. Sc., delivered his gratitude for the success of this event that invited international students. He believed through this kind of event, can stimulate students to have a high commitment to study abroad.