For Billy Lim, a student from BINUS Bandung, participating in the Enrichment Study Abroad program through the Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA) was more than just an academic experience—it was a transformative chapter in his life. Studying at the University of Siena in Italy offered him not only the opportunity to take part in international education but also to grow as an individual in ways he had never imagined.
Billy was drawn to the University of Siena because of its challenging and engaging course offerings. What stood out to him was the availability of several master’s-level courses that allowed him to push beyond the boundaries of his undergraduate studies. During his time there, he enrolled in Project Management, Marketing and Innovation Management, and New Media and Globalization. These courses combined both theoretical foundations and practical applications through group projects and company visits, allowing him to gain hands-on experience and exposure to real-world business environments.
His academic journey in Siena lasted about five and a half months. Classes began in late September and continued through early January, followed by an exam period extending into late February. But the experience went far beyond lecture halls and classrooms.
Living in a new cultural setting taught Billy valuable life lessons. Being far from home, he had to adapt quickly to a different way of life—navigating everything from local customs to group dynamics with fellow IISMA awardees. “It was a great opportunity to develop my soft skills,” he said, reflecting on the diverse interactions he had with people from different backgrounds and the collaborative spirit he shared with the other 15 Indonesian students in his cohort.
Language proved to be one of the main challenges. Communicating with locals, especially the elderly, was sometimes difficult as many of them were not fluent in English. Billy and his friends addressed this challenge by learning basic Italian—a daunting but rewarding endeavor that deepened their connection to the culture.
One of the most memorable aspects of his time in Italy was experiencing the local traditions and lifestyle. Billy was particularly fascinated by how Italians valued the produce of their land. He noticed that many Italian dishes focused on highlighting the freshness and authenticity of local ingredients—like tomatoes and cheeses used in their iconic pizzas—which offered a delightful insight into the country’s food culture.
Outside of academic life, Billy took full advantage of his picturesque surroundings. He often went cycling or jogging around the city, finding joy in the breathtaking views of Siena’s medieval architecture and the serenity of its countryside. These simple yet meaningful activities helped him unwind while also connecting with the local environment.
Billy emphasized the importance of the support he received from BINUS Bandung throughout the entire process. From the initial IISMA selection to his departure and return, the university provided both technical and emotional guidance. “I’m truly grateful for BINUS’ assistance in every step of my study abroad journey,” he shared.
To fellow BINUSIAN students considering the Enrichment Study Abroad program, Billy has one clear message:
“If you have the chance and the privilege to study abroad—go for it! Don’t hesitate! The experience will be irreplaceable and incredibly valuable for your future. Living abroad and learning about a new culture has been one of the most enriching parts of my life. It made me more open-minded and adaptable.”
Billy’s story is a testament to how stepping outside one’s comfort zone can lead to personal and academic breakthroughs. His journey in Siena is not just about studying in a foreign country—it’s about discovering new perspectives, building resilience, and embracing the beauty of global learning.