Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA) is one of the programs of the ministry of education and culture since 2021, and this year that program also gives vocational students a chance to study abroad for a semester. Luckily, I feel so grateful that I can pass the super competitive election of this program. I am Balqis Nuha Student of Marketing Management at Universitas Negeri Malang, one of IISMA for Vocational students awardee at the University of Portsmouth, United Kingdom.
Since the IISMA for Vocational program launched, lectures and also Office International Affairs staff (OIA) have always helped us to complete the requirements for the registration. Although registration has not been opened, there are several documents and requirements that we must prepare, including English certification. Before we take the English language certification test the lectures and OIA staff also give us directions, and also some tips. It certainly eased us through a difficult time, for me absolutely.
From May to June, we go through various selection processes. In the first stage, of course, participants were asked to upload a file of personal information. And for me, the most challenging thing at this stage is the essay, writing a few sentences that can explain the quality and also our self-motivation is not easy. When writing my essay, I asked for suggestions from many parties to see their responses from a different points of view, I asked for advice from friends, lecturers, brothers, and even my parents. The lecturers gave the best advice that amazed me and felt grateful for their presence.
After the announcement of the first stage of selection, I am grateful to be able to take part in the second selection. The second stage is an interview test which is certainly a challenge for our speaking skills. Before facing the interview exam, the lecturers and OIA staff gave us directions so that we can go through it well and not be nervous.
And finally, on June 8, 2022, the final selection results are out. Of course, it was not the end of everything. In fact, it was the beginning part of my dream to take part in an overseas student exchange. I am nothing without the support and assistance from my parents, lecturers, OIA staff, and also my beloved campus Universitas Negeri Malang. During this process, I learned many things and practiced new skills, and from this process, I realized that I could because I tried. #VokasiStandsOut!