For Alex, an Environmental Science student from the University of Melbourne, the decision to join the exchange program at UGM was a leap of faith. Drawn by the beautiful campus photos and the proximity to Australia, Alex traded the massive lecture halls of Melbourne for the intimate, “laid-back” classrooms of the Faculty of Biology at UGM.

A More Personal Way of Learning

Alex noticed a significant shift in the academic atmosphere upon arriving at UGM. Unlike the large classes at his home university, UGM offered smaller groups and much more interaction with lecturers. “I found the academic environment great,” Alex shares, noting that courses like Environmental Science, Toxicology, and Plant Anatomy were perfect for expanding his knowledge in his core field.

The teaching style, which he described as more self-managed, proved beneficial. It allowed him to balance his studies with his desire to explore the city and build deeper connections with fellow students.

Beyond Bali: Discovering the Heart of Jogja

While many Australians are familiar with Bali, Alex discovered a different side of Indonesia in Yogyakarta. His first impression was the “relaxed vibe” of the city and the surprising friendliness of the staff and students. One cultural highlight that left a lasting mark wasn’t a grand monument, but a local snack: Chicken Teriyaki Cireng Isi at the Sunmor market. “The crispy, chewy texture was so good that I’d always try to find cireng on every menu after that!”

However, the most unique aspect of Jogja for Alex was the people. Coming from a city where people can be “largely unfriendly in public,” he was moved by the spontaneous smiles, nods of acknowledgment, and conversations that started out of nowhere.

Overcoming Anxiety and Finding Perspective

One of Alex’s most “real” memories happened outside the classroom during a trip to Merapi. When a friend’s bike broke down in Kaliurang, the day turned into a surreal adventure involving an impromptu coffee shop visit and a Grab driver towing the bike all the way back to UGM.

Reflecting on his journey, Alex admits he was initially anxious about moving to an unknown country. His advice to future students is to push through that fear:

“Whatever image of Indonesia you have is almost certainly wrong—there is so much diversity and complexity. Go into it ready to have your preconceptions challenged. I can’t imagine my life if I had backed out.”

Alex summarizes his experience with three powerful words: Learning, Understanding, and Real. For him, the exchange was a reminder that despite our different backgrounds, at a fundamental level, we are all very similar.

For Esther de Groot, a Health & Life Sciences student from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, exchange was an opportunity to step far outside her comfort zone. Seeking a complete contrast to her life in the Netherlands, she chose the Faculty of Biology at UGM for its high reputation and the chance to immerse herself in Indonesia’s unique culture and nature.

A Fresh Academic Atmosphere

Back in Amsterdam, Esther’s studies focused primarily on human biology. At UGM, she challenged herself by diving into marine, plant, and animal biology. While different from her usual track, she found the experience rewarding, especially within the faculty’s “cosy” and welcoming environment.

“I really liked the atmosphere at the faculty. It isn’t too big and it felt like everyone knows each other,” she noted. She particularly enjoyed Environmental Pollution & Toxicology due to the engaging discussions, as well as Genetics, where the intense Thursday afternoon practicals became a highlight. “I did many practical things I had never done before, and it was so much fun with the other students.”

Embracing the “Bule” Cheer and Local Kindness

Esther’s journey was filled with unexpected moments, but one stands out as “only in Yogyakarta.” After accidentally wandering into a Comic-Con event, she and a friend found themselves playing a ‘LARP’ game. When they won, thousands of people cheered them on, chanting “Bule! Bule!”. This welcoming spirit, she says, is something that would never happen in the Netherlands.

Beyond the city, Esther’s favorite memory was a sleepless weekend tour of East Java. Witnessing the blue fire of Mount Ijen, the craters of Bromo, and the Tumpak Sewu waterfall with a newly formed group of friends remains one of the most special moments of her life.

Advice for the Next Exchange Students

Initially overwhelmed by the “chaotic” traffic and the different pace of life, Esther grew to appreciate the positive mindset of the people she met. Her biggest piece of advice for future students is to befriend local students early on.

“The most funny, interesting, and unexpected memories were mostly made with the Indonesian students. It is such a nice way to learn about the culture and there is always so much to talk about.”

Esther summarizes her time at UGM as Educational, Fun, and Cosy—a journey where she felt truly welcome from day one.

For Hilde Aris, a Clinical Sciences student from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Indonesia was more than just an exchange destination—it was a journey of curiosity. Drawn by the country’s diverse culture and nature, she chose UGM and Yogyakarta, a city renowned for its vibrant student life.

A Hands-on Academic Shift

Back in the Netherlands, Hilde’s studies were deeply rooted in human biology. At the UGM Faculty of Biology, her perspective shifted toward nature and biodiversity. She found the “field-based learning” approach particularly refreshing, involving lessons outside the classroom and practical sessions on real-world issues.

Her favorite course, Environmental Pollution and Toxicology, allowed her to compare environmental challenges between the Netherlands and Indonesia. Beyond the curriculum, she appreciated the small, personal class sizes: “It encouraged active participation. I really liked this and enjoyed the classes more because of it.”

Connection Beyond the Classroom

Hilde’s experience was defined by the warmth of the people she met. One of her most cherished memories happened early on when she went to play badminton. She was invited to play by a local couple, Ana and Vino, and they ended up playing together almost every week followed by dinner. “They felt like parental figures to me during my time in Yogyakarta,” Hilde shares.

Another “only in Indonesia” moment that left a lasting impression was the Lustrum Bingo at the faculty, which turned into a massive karaoke session with both students and teachers singing “Aku Cinta Jogja.” Whether it was playing for the UGM hockey team at Pancasila Stadium or joining a neighborhood celebration for Independence Day, Hilde felt an inclusive atmosphere everywhere she went.

Advice for Future Students: “DO DO DO IT”

Hilde’s advice for those considering UGM is simple: put Indonesia at the top of your list. While exchange friends are great, she emphasizes the importance of connecting with locals.

“Really invest time in meeting local people: Indonesian classmates or even people you meet on the street. Everyone is incredibly friendly and wants to share their stories.”

Hilde describes her six months at UGM as “Cinta, Beautiful, and Special.” It wasn’t just an academic semester; it was, as she calls it, the best six months of her life.