Nujjiya Zhahirin: Chasing Dreams to the Land of Europe
Muhamad Nujjiya Zhahirin, or more familiarly called Nujjiya, is one of the talented students of Fikom’s Media Production Management study program who took a bold step in pursuing his dreams through the Indonesia International Student Mobility Awards program. Indonesia International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA). The man born in Bandung on July 7, 2002 had to go through a long and difficult journey to achieve his dream of studying at a leading university in the UK, Arts University Bournemouth. Dengan berpegang teguh pada motto hidupnya, ” every lesson shapes a life“, Nujjiya managed to go further.
Nujjiya revealed that her motivation for joining the IISMA program was her fixation on her dreams and future. She realizes that human resources are increasing and technology is advancing day by day. Therefore, Nujjiya wants to expand her knowledge by studying in an environment that has world standards in her field of study. She hopes to make a valuable contribution and compete not only in Indonesia, but also abroad. Nujjiya also wants to grow her company to have a positive impact on the community in her hometown, Bandung.
Nujjiya explained that as a vocational student in the Media Production Management study program, her options in the IISMA program were quite limited. However, due to her interest and background in communication and arts, she chose the IISMA program. Visual Communication at Arts University Bournemouth as her first choice. Nujjiya also revealed that preparation for the IISMA selection is not only about English language skills, good essay writing, or a brilliant academic record, but also about being mentally strong.
According to Nujjiya, the IISMA program is not for everyone. That is, only certain people with a strong mindset and mentality are able to follow all stages of the IISMA selection process, which is not easy. In addition, Nujjiya also understands that this program requires a lot of capital, so financial preparations also need to be finalized. Although not from a wealthy family, Nujjiya managed to accumulate the capital through various freelance jobs and projects. Nujjiya believes that with effort and value that he has, there is nothing that can stop him from achieving his goals.
Sure enough, Nujjiya passed the file selection and interview stages. Nujjiya was initially confused when she got the news that she was accepted into the IISMA program. However, after processing the information, she felt happy and proud of herself. Nonetheless, she remained focused and realized that this was only the beginning of her long journey.
In preparation for her departure abroad, Nujjiya focused on strengthening her English language skills and preparing herself mentally. In addition, Nujjiya also participated in the program pre-departure provided by IISMA to help awardees to study abroad more effectively. In addition, Nujjiya also took the initiative to make a list of competency targets that she should achieve as a benchmark for her development when she finished the IISMA program.
Starting her life in the UK, Nujjiya revealed that the cultural differences she felt were not too significant, especially if you are used to a disciplined lifestyle and using public transportation. However, Nujjiya also emphasizes the importance of asking questions when encountering different cultures or customs, and staying away from habits that are considered wrong.
Meanwhile, the differences are quite pronounced in the lectures at Arts University BournemouthIn addition, the university’s learning methods are very different from those of other universities, which are very focused on one subject in one study program. The learning method at the university is also very different, precisely using the method of project based. Meskipun demikian, Nujjiya dipertemukan dengan dosen-dosen yang sangat suportif dan tidak enggan membantu mahasiswanya yang kesulitan. Selain itu, mahasiswa juga dibekali dengan fasilitas peminjaman peralatan untuk keperluan pendidikan seperti laptop, kamera, lighting, dan lain sebagainya, sehingga mahasiswa dapat mengerjakan tugasnya secara optimal.
With a supportive environment, Nujjiya actively develops herself by participating in off-campus activities, creating content, and working part-time. She keeps in mind her main goal to learn different perspectives in communication and art through this opportunity. By doing so, she hopes that the knowledge she gained can make a valuable contribution when she returns to Indonesia.
Nujjiya recognizes that reality does not always match her expectations. Although she encountered obstacles, she saw them as opportunities to learn new things that she had not imagined before. For Nujjiya, confidence, mentality and thorough preparation are the keys that led her to achieve her dreams through IISMA. Put aside your fears and doubts because nothing can prevent you from achieving your goals, except yourself. (TDF)
