"I had an amazing experience in Leiden. Both socially and academically."

Jakarta, Indonesia
2015-2016: Master of Arts in Asian Studies (specialization in Southeast Asian Studies)

Why I chose Leiden University

Leiden University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world with an excellent reputation globally and a multi-cultural environment, particularly in the field of humanities and social sciences. Leiden University is one of just a few universities in Europe that offer Asian Studies. The program highlights the development of the fastest-growing region from the ancient era to the present day.

The Southeast Asian specialization provides a vast knowledge of the world’s dynamic and most diverse region in politics, economy, culture, history and arts from academic perspective objectively. I really recommend this program for students who are interested in pursuing a career in the region or be a regional/country specialist.

Another reason for choosing Leiden is that it has the most extensive and vast collections of Indonesian rare books, manuscripts and archives which helped me a lot with my research. Leiden University has always been my first choice in conducting research, especially about Indonesia because of its specialization and long connection with the Indonesian academic history.

What I’m Doing Now

I am currently working as a junior diplomat at the Headquarters of the Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry in Jakarta. My desk job is related to Asia Pacific and African bilateral affairs, particularly South and Central Asian region. My daily work routine involves coordinating and facilitating Indonesian official/government institutions and foreign embassies/missions in Indonesia, providing high level bilateral meeting scripts and background information, conducting and reporting official visits as well as bilateral mechanism events, and promoting diplomacy between Indonesian government agencies and its counter parts. I have worked in MoFA for 6 years since and now I am waiting for my first assignment abroad next year. 

My Leiden experiences

During my time in Leiden, I found that the university’s libraries were the best facilities for students to study before exams, have a group discussion, or just hang out with friends. The vast collections of books, journals, e-books, and other useful resources in the libraries provide a huge resource for students to conduct academic research. For example, I found many rare Indonesian and international books in remarkably good condition. 

Other things I cherished during my study in Leiden were its nice people, its beautiful and mesmerizing scenery, its busy  day and night life, and its international atmosphere. The latter gave me a sort of “security”, meaning I didn't have to worry if I had to speak Dutch because everyone understands English and a surpsiring amount speak Indonesian too.

My reasons for becoming a Leiden Ambassador

I have loved Leiden University and the Netherlands since my very first visit. During my timein Leiden, I had an amazing experience both in my social life and academic life. I visited many interesting events facilitated by Leiden University, like the Tolkien workshop, and participated in various programs hosted by the Indonesian Students Association in Leiden (PPI Leiden). Great ways to make new friends! In the academic field, I gained a lot of improvement in understanding the political economy and cultural history of Southeast Asia. High-skilled, brilliant and professional expertise, excellent courses, and an attractive campus environment are the top features of Leiden University. 

As a proud alumni of Leiden University, I would like to share my experiences to prospective Leiden students in Indonesia as well as to build a strong and (already) excellent image of Leiden University in Indonesia. Also, I'd like to broaden my network by educating Indonesian youth about education and international issues in this era of global village and global citizen.