Encouraging Further Study Abroad, ULM Language Center Holds Cultural Discussion
Friday, October 20 2023, the Language Technical Assistance Unit (UPT) of Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) held a cultural discussion activity with the title Studying Across Countries and Culture: Challenges and Tips. This activity was carried out on the 3rd floor of the UPT Language ULM building. The resource persons in this activity were Elvina Arapah (ULM), teacher of the Cross Cultural Understanding course and recipient of the Access Microscholarship program grant in the U.S.; Professor at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP ULM), Atiek Winarti. He is also a recipient of the Dutch Stunedke scholarship; Lyka A. Darvin (University of the Immaculate Conception – SEA Teacher Batch 9 participant – Filipino nationality), and Jin Ju A. Hong (University of the Immaculate Conception – SEA Teacher Batch 9 participant, mixed Filipino and Korean). Participants in this discussion were 50 ULM lecturers and students.
According to the Head of the ULM Language UPT, Jumariati, the purpose of holding this activity includes discussing cultural concepts and cultural differences across countries and continents, especially in Asia, Europe and America; sharpen soft skills (intrapersonal communication & cultural sensitivity) when dealing with foreigners; expand insight into cultures across continents; and motivate participants to continue their studies/take part in scholarship programs abroad. Jumariati also said that this activity was very good for opening insight and sharpening cultural sensitivity. “That what is taboo in our culture may not be taboo in other cultures, and vice versa. “This cultural discussion activity will continue to be carried out in the following years, of course with the support of the University Leadership,”she said.
Until the end, the activity ran smoothly because all participants enthusiastically listened to the material presented and participated in the Q&A session. Student participants showed high enthusiasm and were inspired to seek scholarship opportunities to study abroad. (Dewi Alfianti/Public Relations of FKIP ULM)
