Studying in Europe, UM Surabaya Lecturer Reveals Tips for Winning Scholarships

Achmad Hidayatullah, Lecturer in Mathematics Education at the Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya (UM Surabaya) won a doctoral scholarship at the University of Szeged Hungary in Central Europe. In a written statement, Dayat shared his experience and shared tips and tricks when he won a scholarship. Thursday (10/2/22).

Dayat emphasized that getting a scholarship requires careful planning and a strong mentality. He also shared his experience when he went through dozens of failures that never made him give up.

“The most important thing for scholarship hunters is to have a strong desire before starting to apply for a scholarship, don't hesitate to find out starting from the type of scholarship, the qualifications needed, the study programs offered to the scholarship deadline. Don't just focus on one, list as many scholarships as possible and be prepared to try," Dayat explained.

Dayat emphasized that what needs to be considered again is not to give up easily and get up at every failure. While waiting for registration, it is very important for applicants to improve their skills in foreign languages. At least scholarship applicants must master two languages, namely English and the language of the intended study destination.

“English language ability is very important, almost all scholarships stipulate that scholarship candidates must have a minimum TOEFL score of 550. In practicing fluency in English, I practice it every day in every activity. I also do this to prepare when answering questions asked during interviews," added Dayat.

Dayat further explained that not a few people fail at this stage because they are nervous or lack confidence. Therefore, before undergoing the interview test, arm yourself with information about the chosen field of study so that scholarship applicants can provide mature answers to the choice of major.

"Studying abroad was a valuable experience for me, apart from understanding foreign cultures that are different from Indonesian culture as well as strengthening foreign language skills, finding new interests or interests, expanding my network of friends from various ethnicities, religions, cultures to increase career opportunities and more. the most important thing is to add life experience is the myriad of advantages that I get while here, "he said.