Pondering Point

STUDY AND ENJOY PARADISE

Mikael Kiuru of Asia Exchange Ltd. recently sent us the following information on an interesting exchange study program for university students who want to experience Bali. Their studies concentrate on learning Bahasa Indonesia along with the local culture and customs. This way it aims to bring foreigners to Indonesia who are not just interested in partying for a few weeks and going home, but those who are really interested in the country, its culture and its people. Is it possible to combine studying and life in paradise?

People visiting Bali are often young, energetic and enthusiastic. Eager to experience and learn more about life in a new environment, they come to Bali to surf, have fun and enjoy the sun. A large portion of them are students taking a break from studying in the form of a short vacation or a longer trip. The latter choice is often a tempting one, but most students find it impossible to justify a long absence from their studies in the name of just a longer vacation. But what if the two could be combined?

Nowadays, an increasing number of students complete part of their studies abroad. At the university level a study abroad period is not only a vital part of a student's degree but also an asset to a CV, because it helps the job applicant stand out. In the past, student migration has concentrated towards Europe, the United States and Australia, but during the past few years Asia has become one of the most popular destinations for studying abroad and thus challenged the old favorites. While major reasons are undoubtedly the rising economic powers and the larger role of Asian nations on the global market, more personal agendas underlie.

Most of us who have visited South East Asia as tourist or backpacker can describe the experience as being in a paradise on earth: living costs are low, traveling within and between countries is convenient, the local people are warmhearted and gentle and the rich culture amaze the traveler with their never-ending wonders. Needless to say, the growing economic importance of Asia on a global scale makes the continent a good destination for traveling with regard to studies and future career opportunities. People who possess firsthand knowledge of Asia naturally have an edge when applying for jobs, not only at multinational companies but also governmental organizations.

A study abroad period benefits one's future career and provides lifelong memories. Students who have used the opportunity to experience a student exchange program often state that the study period has been the most fruitful experience of their lives so far. The only problem is that the amount of study places for exchange students at Asian universities are often very limited compared to the demand. Universities' exchange study agreements usually only provide study places to a few selected applicants, so finding a study abroad place independently as a free-mover can be a long and unpredictable road.

Udayana University, located in Denpasar - the capital of Bali, has established a new study program called "Bali International Program on Asian Studies", which includes courses in economics, tourism, law, culture and language. This 4 month study program is given in English and all the people who fulfill the minimum requirements are warmly welcome to participate. Most of the applicants are university students in their home countries, and by completing this study program they receive a respectable amount of credit to add to their university degrees. In contrast, some of the students taking part in the program are not currently studying at a university in their home country but can make use of the earned credits if they choose to enroll in the future. The tuition fees are very affordable – the costs are only 10-20% of what a semester payment is in a Western country.

Applying for this study program has been made possible by Udayana University's partner Asia Exchange, which handles the laborious paper work and provides students with useful information ranging from visa procedures to accommodation options. This way the applicant can enroll for the study abroad period with ease and concentrate on more important things, such as enjoying the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Interested? Fill out an application and pack up your bags... You will receive a response about being approved for the study program within a week of sending in your application.
Grab you experience – in and outside the classroom!

Visit the Asia Exchange website at: www.asiaexchange.org «»

Photos Nyoman Ari Gunadi