In the current era of rapid globalization, it is undeniable that students are increasingly expected to become global citizens with global insight and the ability to establish multicultural interactions. Various programs are held to prepare students to meet these challenges, one of which is the Maymester Program held by Lipscomb University in collaboration with Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH). This Maymester program is a short-term trip for students, providing global experience and competence in an interactive learning environment in other countries. Students also have the opportunity to take courses and get Semester Credit Units (SKS).

15 Lipscomb University students participated in a study tour to UPH as well as trips to Yogyakarta and Bali during the program, from May 9 to May 28, 2022. The UPH Global Partnership & International Office (GPIO) has prepared a series of activities to equip Lipscomb University students, including Brief Courses by UPH lecturers, Introduction to Indonesia’s Religious and Political Situation Class, Online Presentation by the Indonesia Stock Exchange, and visits to Jakarta Customs ports. In terms of cultural experiences, students are also invited to participate in a three-day cultural trip in Yogyakarta and a five-day cultural trip in Bali.

“I had an incredible experience in Indonesia, and we are very fortunate to have been able to establish a relationship with UPH that has an extraordinary structure, resources, and people. This is beneficial not only to me, but also most importantly for the students. “I hope this collaboration can continue and be developed into a two-way, multi-directional collaboration,” said Dr. Phil Pfeffer, Lipscomb University’s Professor of Management-Adjunct and CEO in Residence.

Shelby Bratcher, a student from Lipscomb University’s Marketing department, shared her experience while in Indonesia which was diverse and useful to broaden horizons and relationships. “Starting at UPH, we learned about the supply chain, stock market, and developing economy, we also learned about the importance of understanding the cultural differences in Indonesia and America which greatly affect many aspects of life. I would recommend this program to my other friends, and I am grateful to UPH and Lipscomb for accompanying, accommodating, and making this unforgettable experience possible for me,” she said.

Collaboration in this program benefits not only Lipscomb University students, but also UPH students from the International Community for Students (ICS), who are involved in its implementation. UPH students certainly gain cultural exposure, relationships, and valuable experiences. UPH students’ participation warms the atmosphere by establishing togetherness and relationships with Lipscomb University students and introducing Indonesian culture. This program, according to Giovani Prayitno, Manager of GPIO UPH, is a lesson for UPH as a host in preparing quality programs for foreign students on the upcoming study tour.

UPH hopes that Lipscomb University students who attend this study tour will gain valuable benefits and experiences. UPH and Lipscomb University will continue to collaborate and coordinate the study tour’s implementation in 2023.

Global Partnerships & International Office UPH

UPH Global Partnerships & International Office facilitates a variety of programs that equip and prepare students to become global citizens with global insight. UPH will continue to provide opportunities for its students to gain international knowledge and improve their quality through a network of strong and broad strategic partnerships with universities around the world. Let us now join UPH! For more information, please contact Student Consultants at 0811-1709-901 or register here.