StuNed Scholarship at Erasmus University and Lund University

I came from a humble beginning. I didn't have much money back then, and even when I did get a job, I could not save enough for higher education. However, I had this urge to get a good education with the aim of having it in international settings and being supported by a full scholarship. Luckily, there were plenty of scholarships available back in the early 2000s for young Indonesian workers. I was unsuccessful at first try until I had the opportunity to compete again in StuNed (Studeren in Nederland), a higher education international scholarship from the Dutch Government. I still remember back then that I was reviewed by former Minister of Education Prof. Dr. Fuad Hassan as a member of the selection committee. I finally won the selection and started the Master's course in Urban Management in the summer of 2003. I found myself at the threshold of a transformative journey, armed with a second (the first was in 2001 by SIDA) full scholarship from Nuffic, the Netherlands Government Education Agency. The scholarship is a joint programme by Erasmus University in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, and Lund University in Lund, Sweden, and has to be done in person in both countries. The world beckoned as I embarked on a Master's course that would unfold across the charming city of Rotterdam, nestled in the heart of the Netherlands, and the picturesque landscapes of Lund, Sweden.

The corridors of Erasmus University in Rotterdam whispered promises of knowledge and experiences that would shape my perspective forever. Urban Management, the chosen field of study, resonated deeply with my role as a planner in the Indonesian government's National Urban Development Corporation (Perumnas). It was a juncture where theory and practice were destined to intertwine, creating a mosaic of understanding that would guide my future endeavors in urban development.

As the autumn leaves danced in the Dutch breeze, I delved into the intricacies of Urban Management, absorbing the wealth of knowledge that the esteemed university had to offer. The vibrant city of Rotterdam, with its blend of modern architecture and historic charm, became not just a classroom but a canvas for learning. From innovative urban planning strategies to sustainable development practices, each lecture and field visit left an indelible mark on my academic journey.

The Netherlands, a land of tulip fields and windmills, provided a rich cultural tapestry that complemented the academic rigors. My days were filled with discussions in cozy cafes, exploring the city's bicycle-friendly lanes, and forging friendships with fellow scholars from around the globe. The Erasmus experience was not just about textbooks and lectures; it was about immersing oneself in a culture that embraced diversity and encouraged intellectual curiosity.

As the Dutch chapter of my academic saga drew to a close, I eagerly set forth for the enchanting city of Lund, Sweden. The cobblestone streets and medieval architecture welcomed me to a different facet of European charm. Lund University unfolded as a haven of academic excellence, offering a distinct perspective on Urban Management. The Swedish ethos of sustainability and meticulous urban planning practices provided a unique lens through which I could refine my understanding of my chosen field.

In the midst of lectures and research, I found moments of quiet reflection by the Lund Cathedral or the serene Botanical Gardens. It was during these contemplative moments that the gravity of the opportunity bestowed upon me by Nuffic became abundantly clear. The scholarship was not merely a ticket to academic accolades; it was a gateway to personal and professional growth that transcended borders.

Armed with newfound knowledge and a global perspective, I returned to the corridors of Perumnas in Indonesia. The corridors that once felt familiar now echoed with the resonance of my international experiences. The skills honed in the universities of Rotterdam and Lund positioned me for a significant leap in my career. The role of Regional Director Assistant had transformed into that of a Corporate Program Manager on a national scale.

I reflect on those transformative years with gratitude, for they were not just a chapter in my academic history but a pivotal juncture in my life's narrative. The scholarships from Nuffic not only opened doors to European classrooms but also paved the way for a broader understanding of global urban dynamics.

In the tapestry of my life, the year 2004 stands as a vibrant thread woven with the hues of Dutch tulips and Swedish landscapes. It is a testament to the power of education to transcend boundaries and transform lives. To Nuffic, Erasmus University, and the indomitable spirit of international scholarship, I owe a debt of gratitude for crafting a chapter that continues to resonate in the symphony of my professional journey.