Studying in a new country isn’t just about adjusting to the classroom, but also about understanding the society, culture, and adapting to daily life. Recognizing the challenges faced by international students, the International Relations Office of SBM ITB, held a welcoming session for all international students who will be studying at SBM ITB starting next semester at the SBM ITB building in Bandung (February 6).
“Welcome to our school, and I hope you have a pleasant and memorable experience in Bandung. Please enjoy Indonesia,” said Ira Fachira, Coordinator of the International Partnership Division of SBM ITB, in her remarks.
Ira emphasized that this welcoming session aims to ensure all students feel prepared, safe, and accepted as they begin their academic journey. Students from France, India, South Korea, Brunei Darussalam, and the Netherlands attended the event. This session aims to equip students with academic information, cultural understanding, and practical preparation for their stay and study in Indonesia.
In addition to academic aspects, this session emphasizes various aspects of Indonesian culture and social etiquette. Students learn about Indonesia’s cultural diversity and daily customs, such as greetings, communication styles, and social norms, to facilitate social integration. Furthermore, a special session discusses Indonesian food culture, including staple foods, consumption habits, and the importance of halal regulations in Indonesia.
To ensure student well-being, a session also covers safety and security, including common risks such as petty theft, public transportation safety, and traffic conditions. Students are advised to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and at night.
To conclude the series of presentations, students received an explanation of the Cultural Trip to the Margamulya Tourism Village, which will include a visit to a goat farm, participation in agricultural activities like rice planting, and learning pencak silat, a traditional Indonesian martial art. This activity is designed to provide a firsthand experience of rural life and local Indonesian traditions.
When asked about their motivations for choosing SBM ITB, Dorian Biteau, a student from France, highlighted its appeal as “an interesting place with many engaging courses.” Meanwhile, Soejeong Park, a student from South Korea, expressed her excitement about “learning more about Indonesian culture and society.” These responses demonstrate that SBM ITB attracts international students not only because of its academic excellence but also due to its rich cultural environment.
Written by Student Reporter (Muhammad Rafi Rashad Budiman, Management 2027)
