Studying abroad is different and unique for every international student. No two journeys are ever the same. This is especially true of the spark which ignites the desire and motivation to pursue a degree abroad. For Sitti Hadijah, it was a deep sense of commitment to improving the lives and skills of her students in Indonesia through education. It was a passion that led Sitti to the University of Galway to pursue a PhD in Education. We sat down with Sitti to explore her journey, inspirations, and aspirations.
How the journey began
“It all started when I studied education and teaching for my undergraduate and master’s degrees in Indonesia. I was always interested in education and saw the importance of teaching and learning for empowering students,” explains Sitti. “I work professionally as an English teacher and lecturer, which I enjoy, but I noticed some of the struggles my students have with communication and language. I wanted to make a positive change.”
It was this desire to transform outcomes and ultimately lives that first led Sitti to Ireland in 2019 after being awarded a scholarship by the Indonesian Government under the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology for a short course programme at the University of Galway. Having experienced the academic environment at the university, including the vibrant exchange of ideas, multicultural community, and advanced facilities, Sitti was more convinced than ever that studying full-time at the university was her goal.
“To be honest, I didn’t have that much exposure to Irish higher education institutions while in Indonesia, so coming to Galway in 2019 opened my eyes to what was possible. Unfortunately, my return was a little delayed by the pandemic,” Sitti elaborates. “But I was determined and secured funding from the Indonesian Government once more through the Indonesian Education Scholarship Scheme. I was a bit nervous about applying, but luckily, I have a brilliant supervisor, and we kept in touch throughout the process, which was helpful.”
Studying abroad becomes a reality
Sitti underlines how seminal the relationship with her supervisor was in shaping her overall experience and how the relationship grew stronger during her studies. Her supervisor encouraged her to take ownership of her research area as an expert and pursue ideas, leading to academic freedom, which felt empowering. Another key component of support came from the international office.
“The international office has been excellent in assisting me and other students with everything from study permits to accommodation advice and assistance,” says Sitti. “I had a challenge with my accommodation not long after arriving, and they helped me to find a new place to stay. It really helped to relieve the stress.”
This support and that of a close-knit international student community helped Sitti adjust to life in Ireland after initially struggling with the weather, which proved unexpectedly cold. The weather may have been cold, but the welcome was much warmer, with Sitti relating how she always felt accepted at the university and within Galway. She is even part of a small gathering club with fellow Indonesian students who get together to cook some cuisine from home.
“I’ve made quite a lot of friends here at the university, and this has been helped by joining clubs and societies. I signed up for the Islamic Society, which made me feel part of a community, especially during Ramadan when I was away from home,” Sitti points out. “I’ve even joined activities like painting, which is great for stress relief. I also decided to sign up for the Student Ambassador programme, which has allowed me to meet many people and attend events. I’ve also enjoyed travelling to some places in Ireland and even went to Belfast in the UK.”
Fulfilling ambition and giving back
Even with the academic rigour and pressure that comes with studying for a PhD Sitti has embraced university life to the full. This includes taking advantage of additional academic support services and training opportunities. Sitti has also taken the chance to travel to Dublin to attend and present at an education conference and interact with researchers in her field. This is something that she plans to do again.
“I’m very committed to my research and want to develop as much as possible. I take any opportunity that can help me grow my confidence, develop my independence, and inform my academic work,” elaborates Sitti. “I want to take what I have learnt and apply this effectively in an educational and academic environment to help students as much as possible. I want them to realise the potential they have. Ultimately, I would like to become a published academic and have the chance to supervise students.”
Sitti’s commitment to making a difference and impacting future students is clear. Her insight and expertise will prove invaluable to those she will work with. Sitti is also keen to let prospective international students know that they should pursue their dream of international study, work diligently towards this, and never give up if challenges present themselves. Her final message, “Don’t overthink it, just go for it. It’ll be worth the risk.”
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