The Beginning of the Journey: From Instagram to London
Tsania’s interest in IISMA began in 2021, at the start of her university years. A post she saw on a senior’s Instagram sparked her curiosity, prompting her to explore more through UGM’s OIA social media and various other sources. From the beginning, Tsania had always dreamed of joining a student exchange program. So, she began to seriously attend IISMA info sessions and prepare herself to apply in 2024.
That motivation didn’t come out of nowhere. Since high school, Tsania had been interested in student exchanges because she wanted to experience firsthand what education systems and cultures abroad were like. She believed that cross-cultural experiences would enrich her perspective, both personally and academically. Seeing IISMA as a golden opportunity, she committed herself wholeheartedly to the process.
Thorough Preparation and the Selection Process
Becoming an IISMA awardee is no easy feat. The main requirements include a certain GPA, being in the 4th or 6th semester at the time of application, and having an English Proficiency Test certificate such as IELTS or TOEFL. In addition, applicants must write essays, undergo interviews, and complete various administrative documents.
Tsania chose IELTS to demonstrate her English proficiency. She studied independently using e-books and YouTube videos from the end of 2023, and took the test in January 2024. She also took her essay writing very seriously, going through multiple rounds of proofreading to ensure the content and structure were strong and personal. This process taught her the importance of consistency and perseverance.
Her hard work paid off: Tsania was officially accepted as an awardee and assigned to Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), one of the most prestigious universities in the UK. She couldn’t hide her pride and gratitude when the official announcement came in March 2024.
Exploring London and Campus Life
Queen Mary University of London left a lasting impression on Tsania. With a modern and pedestrian-friendly campus environment, complete facilities, and strong academic and student welfare support, she felt very comfortable. She stayed in campus accommodation with friendly and open international friends.
The city of London itself is equally fascinating. As an architecture student, having the opportunity to observe iconic buildings firsthand was an invaluable experience. London’s multicultural and inclusive atmosphere also made adapting to a new environment much easier. From free-access museums to the city’s dynamic vibe, London offered endless opportunities for exploration.
Moreover, Tsania actively took part in various campus events and cultural activities. All of these experiences enriched her understanding of cultural diversity and global ways of life. She felt that in London, there was always something new to learn every single day.
Learning and Daily Life
At QMUL, Tsania enrolled in four interdisciplinary courses such as Walking the City and London’s Art Histories. Although these were not purely architectural subjects, they still offered relevant insights for her field. She observed how a city’s history, culture, and art shape the urban landscape of London.
Beyond academics, Tsania loved exploring the city, visiting museums (many of which are free), and studying at the university’s 24-hour library. She also adjusted to a different learning style than what she was used to in Indonesia—one that emphasized pre-class readings, active discussions, and essay-based assignments.
At first, the habit of reading extensively and constructing arguments through writing was a challenge. But over time, she adapted and even began to enjoy the process. She also experienced firsthand how site visits to historic locations helped deepen her theoretical understanding from class.
An Unforgettable Moment: Culturise
One of the most memorable experiences for Tsania was participating in Culturise, an event where Indonesian students introduced their culture to international peers. From cooking traditional dishes like martabak and bika ambon to showcasing batik, the event became a fun and proud moment of cultural exchange.
It wasn’t just about showcasing traditions—Tsania and her team also engaged in meaningful dialogue with other participants, discussing both the similarities and differences among their cultures. The warm atmosphere and enthusiasm from students of various countries reinforced her belief that sharing one’s culture is a powerful and meaningful form of diplomacy.
Reflections and Hopes
Although she had to postpone taking her Thematic Studio course and extend her study period due to IISMA, Tsania has no regrets whatsoever. The experience she gained in London was incredibly valuable and opened up new horizons.
In her view, the educational approach in the UK—one that emphasizes independent learning, active discussions, and hands-on field experiences—can serve as an inspiration to improve the quality of education in Indonesia.
In closing, Tsania hopes that more Indonesian students will have the courage to seize similar opportunities. She believes that programs like IISMA are not just about studying abroad, but about shaping individuals to become more open-minded, resilient, and visionary.
