Balikpapan - The opportunity to study outside campus is a valuable experience for students to broaden their perspectives, build networks, and directly experience Indonesia’s cultural diversity. This was experienced by Rifkihadi Rahmatullah, a 2022 student of the Digital Business Study Program at Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK), when he participated in the MBKM Pertukaran Mahasiswa Merdeka Program at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta.

Under the guidance of Deli Yansyah, S.E., M.Acc., Ak., Rifkihadi went through academic and social experiences that were different from his daily life at ITK. The program gave him the opportunity to experience the learning atmosphere at another university, interact with students from various regions, and understand new cultures that enriched his perspective as a student.

Rifkihadi’s interest in joining the program began with curiosity and the desire to take on a new challenge. He wanted to experience the atmosphere of studying at another campus while also getting to know a different social and cultural environment. “I was interested in learning new cultures and wanted to take on the challenge of experiencing what it feels like to study at another campus,” said Rifkihadi.

During the student exchange program in Yogyakarta, Rifkihadi not only attended academic activities but also took part in learning reflection sessions. Through these activities, he was able to evaluate the experiences he gained, from the adaptation process and challenges of living in a new environment to the cultural values he encountered throughout the program.

In addition, Rifkihadi was also active in community activities, both through discussion forums and interactions with local communities. For him, being involved in a community became an important space to share experiences, improve communication skills, and build cross-cultural understanding.

The experience left a deep impression on Rifkihadi. He described the program as an enjoyable journey that introduced him to many new experiences, including the opportunity to learn more closely about local cultures. “It was exciting. I gained many new experiences, especially the chance to learn about new cultures in different regions,” he said.

Through the Pertukaran Mahasiswa Merdeka Program, Rifkihadi learned that education does not only take place in the classroom. Living in a new environment, meeting people from different backgrounds, and adapting to other cultures became an important part of his personal growth.

Rifkihadi also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity he received through the program. For him, this experience became one of the most meaningful moments during his time as an ITK student. “Thank you for accepting me as one of the student exchange participants,” he said.

Rifkihadi Rahmatullah’s story shows that the MBKM Pertukaran Mahasiswa Merdeka Program serves as a broad learning space for students. It not only strengthens academic experience but also shapes character, improves communication skills, and fosters a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s cultural diversity.