In a testament to academic excellence and global collaboration, Feilicia Garcia, a distinguished student from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences majoring in Business Administration at Universitas Sumatera Utara, has been awarded the prestigious Ernst Mach Grant by the Austrian Government's OEAD (Austria's Agency for Education and Internationalisation). This grant facilitated her enrollment in an enriching one-semester program at FH Joanneum Graz, Austria, a renowned University of Applied Sciences. Feilicia's journey of academic exploration began when she received the Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA), allowing her to study at the esteemed University of Sydney in Australia, ranked among the top 20 universities globally. Undeterred by the challenges of international mobility, she returned with a wealth of experiences and furthered her educational pursuits through the Ernst Mach Grant.
The opportunity arose due to the strong collaboration between Universitas Sumatera Utara and FH Joanneum Austria, fostering a global academic exchange platform for students like Feilicia. During her semester at FH Joanneum, Feilicia actively engaged in three intensive courses, each carrying a weight of 5 ECTS, totaling 15 ECTS. The academic aspect proved to be intellectually fulfilling and personally transformative. Feilicia seized the chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, establishing a global network and exchanging cultural perspectives. Professors at FH Joanneum, with exceptional expertise in their respective fields, played a pivotal role in shaping her educational journey. Feilicia's coursework included international marketing, Cross-Cultural and Entrepreneurial Perspectives, and an introduction to B2B marketing and selling. Each course provided a unique lens on various aspects of business, enhancing her analytical skills and broadening her understanding of global markets. Beyond academics, Feilicia embraced Austrian culture wholeheartedly, forging connections with local friends and networking with peers worldwide. The diversity of characters, backgrounds, and cultures enriched her experience, allowing her to learn from others and showcase Indonesia to the global community.
Reflecting on her educational chapter at FH Joanneum, Feilicia expresses gratitude for the valuable insights gained and skills honed during her time in Austria. With a commitment to sharing and applying her newfound expertise, she aspires to contribute actively to the broader global community. She aims to make meaningful contributions and foster collaborative growth in the dynamic realm of international business. Feilicia Garcia's success serves as an inspiration, highlighting the positive outcomes of international collaboration and the transformative power of academic exchange programs. Her journey exemplifies personal and professional growth potential from embracing diverse perspectives and engaging with global academic communities.