Berita

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – In a vibrant display of camaraderie and cultural exchange, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) recently hosted the Mataf UMY 2024 orientation event, bringing together students from diverse backgrounds to foster connections and enrich their academic journeys. The event has proven particularly impactful for international students, who shared their experiences of adaptation, learning, and friendship.

Yin Phyu Phyu, an accounting student from Myanmar, reflected on her challenging yet rewarding experience as she navigated the intricacies of Indonesian culture. “Mataf UMY has been tough and tiring for me as an international student still getting familiar with the culture,” she said. “Despite the overwhelming assignments, the support from my crew leader and fellow students made all the difference.” Through Mataf UMY, Yin deepened her understanding of the university, formed lasting friendships, and gained insights into various academic opportunities.

Similarly, Nyan, another participant from Myanmar, expressed his amazement at the unity showcased during the primary UMY Mataf day. “Seeing students from different departments dancing and singing together filled me with a sense of belonging,” he remarked. Nyan’s experience was further highlighted when he was selected as a representative for the Alma Mata Penning ceremony, an honor that left him feeling celebrated and empowered.

Sohail Abbas from Pakistan described Mataf UMY as a transformative experience, emphasizing the importance of orientation in introducing new students to the university’s values and opportunities. “The series of events helped us understand not only academic programs but also global issues, like the situation in Palestine,” he noted. “The university’s commitment to addressing injustices while providing a platform for successful personalities to share their journeys was inspiring.”

Rimsha, a master’s student from Pakistan, highlighted the energetic atmosphere of Mataf UMY, describing it as a fantastic immersion into Indonesian culture. “It feels like a crash course in celebrating and connecting with the community,” she stated. While she acknowledged that some aspects felt overly strict, she remains optimistic about the event’s potential for refinement in the future.

Netzer Medico Kimno from the Philippines echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for the unique insights gained during Mataf. “This event has shown me the beauty of UMY and helped me make lifelong friends,” he shared. “I believe the experiences from Mataf UMY 2024 will shape me into an innovative leader, ready to tackle the challenges of the modern world.”

As Mataf UMY 2024 concludes, the university celebrates the invaluable connections forged and the enriching experiences shared among its diverse student body. The event is a testament to UMY’s dedication to fostering a welcoming environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

For more information, please visit the Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta website or follow us on social media at @ocia_umy