Month: October 2018

March 12^th, 2018

Spring break is over. Time flies so fast, I can’t even blink my eyes. Naturally, the students will have a vacation with their families. Most UGRADers went on a trip to the big states like California, Florida, Los Angeles, etc. on spring break, the campus is off for 12 days. I was really confused where to visit. My Indonesian friends asked me to go to Grand Canyon. I rejected it because it was going to spend $500 approximately and I couldn’t afford it. I was ready to be left alone on the dorm because it was going to empty.

My Thai friend who also happens to be my classmate. He informed me that there was a mission trip for 10 days in Montana. Two questions popped on my mind: What is mission trip? And where is Montana? But since it was free, without further thoughts I bought off on that offer. I emailed one of the persons in charge to confirm my participation.

Mission trip is an activity organized by church to travel far away and to toughen our faith by contributing to our society (my own definition). it usually takes place on a remote or underdeveloped area. It is also held to share the love of God.

The day had come. All of us were gathered in front of the church to decide who’s going with whose cars. This mission trip was followed by 40 people in total (I guess, I didn’t count), 6 of them are the facilitators and others are the “toddlers’’.

The trip to Montana by land transportation would approximately take 13 hours, if we went straight without staying over but it was not going to be fun at all. So, we were going nomadic. The route we had to pass through was Minnesota – South Dakota – Wyoming – Montana. We spent the first day in South Dakota and slept over on the church. on the evening, we played the board games and cards while introducing ourselves. It was really awkward the first time but after a while we could get along. At the night, we sang the Christian songs and heard the preach from the Pastor. The Pastor was hella wise and funny. The second day we made it to Montana. it was freezing all over the way with oxes and horses as distant as eyes could see.

In Montana, we visited the Crow Reservation. It is established to nurture the Native Americans Tribe. We were welcomed by Pastor Dan, the man who has run the church in the Crow Reservation for years. He also preached us. His warming and charming attitude melted our heart. His passion for serving God has been honed. His grit has made him a formidable being. He also told us about the story of Native Americans. I could be wide awake for nights just to listen to his extraordinary stories. After that we went to the Gymnasium by the school and stayed there.

On day fourth, we visited the school. we came to the school to do anything that the school wanted us to do.  In the morning, we had the breakfast with the kids and mingled with the kids. We were greeted with warmth and sincerity. These kids were fun to talk with too. I don’t know how they could be so nice to the persons they just met.

We divided the troupe into two based on the job description. One group would work in the school whereas the other one would go to the church. I decided to stay on the school and played with the kids. The “school” group helped the kids with reading, decorating the schools, cleaning the classroom, becoming the facilitators that the teachers could use to bolster the learning process. I and some friends were happened to help one the science teacher to create a renewable energy using the manure and the straws. My hands and my feet were freezing since we had to shovel the wood chips and the snow got into my shoes. We spent three days on this school.

on day sixth, we visited one the museum that consists the evidence of the Native American Civilization named The Battle of the Big Horn Museum.  We also had the chance to watch the documentary movies in that museum. One of the keepers took us out and escorted us to see the Last Stand. The place where hundreds of Native Americans and soldiers of the United States were died to fight for the land. I could also amaze myself by seeing the graves of these honored fighters.

On day seventh, it was the time for culinary exploration. We one of the most authentic native American restaurants in Montana. The offered menu was distinct, I could only find it this restaurant. While waiting for our orders, we were cheered with the servant who could impersonate the horse neighing. This restaurant was happened to sell the souvenirs too. I bought one for my mother. In front of the restaurant, I could see tiipii lining up, tiipii is the house for Native Americans.

On day eighth, we went back home. We farewell all the kids and Pastor Dan. He even cried when we left. He promised to pay a visit to Mankato. We departed from Montana on early morning to catch the day. On the way back home, we stopped by the Mount Rushmore to take some photos. This place is considered to be one most iconic destinations in the United States. I once saw this place on the movie called the National Treasure and I finally made it. What a dream come true!

March 19^th, 2018

After a long break, the moment to prove my seriousness on studying was contested, the Mid Term. It was really stressful and intense because this might influence my stay in United States. The fear consumed my body and thoughts. I believe that scariness emerges because of lack of preparation. I spent the whole spring break for vacation. So, you know how bad my preps are. I literally had a few days to recall all the materials but I was whacked by the long trip.

The fear itself encouraged to optimize the short time that I had. I went to the library till night, packed my whole meals and brought to my room, reduced my sleep time. I could not let this slip. I could not sleep well, me eyes turned red and felt so exhausted. You win some, you lose some. That’s what I’ve always been reminded.

I am the type of person who cannot study by self. I need group or at least one person whom I can discuss with. That’s how I nail a new notion on my head. I speak it, I memorize it. With this method, I can learn twice faster than alone. Unfortunately, there was none a single person I who wanted to learn together. I kind of felt that they are already smart and genius and could figure everything out themselves. That happened to the four courses but not with U.S Government. This Thai friend of mine agreed to be my partner in exam.

The U.S Government compared to the other four was the hardest for me. This course is still new for me and I did not have any basis. I can easily understand anything with calculation but when it comes to history and memorizing. I am the complete opposite. this course requires me to read some thick books with some their hard vocabularies. If I were to calculate the time I have to spend to read a page, it would take 10 minutes or something. I was going to fail this course. I spent most of my time to learn this course, even more than the over four combined. I studied day and night with my Thai friend.

The day had come. Some were online exams and some were not. I did pretty good on the online ones because the results were shown right after the exams were done. The written ones are in progress. I think my effort has already paid off.

It was quite tense during the class exams. Almost in every exam, I became the last person who left the room while other were 20 to 30 minutes in advance. The questions were not so hard actually but I was just startled with their confidence. I don’t think they double – checked their answers. But, it made me went crazy just to see them one by one turning in their sheets. Some might not bother but I do. After a few moment, I controlled my emotions and back on track. I rechecked everything over and over again until I am certain.

March 26^th, 2018

I have mentioned earlier about how proud I am to be Indonesian, haven’t I? this week I had an opportunity to visit Indonesian bataknese family in Minneapolis.  This person happens to be a professor in MNSU. Actually, we have talked a few times directly and through email. So, yeah, he invited me over to his house.

On last Friday, he told me to come to his office with my personal belongings packed so we could drive to his house together. It took only two hours drive. On the way to his house, I asked him so many questions from the common questions to the craziest ones. He sure did answer all my questions with style. I adore his personality who is honest. He also taught me about modesty and life fulfillment. One of the most fabulous things I couldn’t be more amazed of is how he never loses his Indonesian accent even when he is speaking English. He has been living in the U.S for more than 10 years but I could totally see him as completely an Indonesian with advance thoughts and brilliant mind.

Arriving at his home, I was warmly welcomed by his wife and his only son. They catered me food. I spent that night just to know them better through their stories and advices. Never I felt wiser than ever.

I spent three days with them. They took me everywhere, some of them were famous places. They took me to see the Mall of America, the biggest Mall in America. it was really huge. I felt like I was lost and needed a map just to find out the exit sign.  That’s how big it is. The playground is also great. Many people from other states stopped by just to play. In America, specifically in Minnesota, the winter is extremely hard, so it is all indoor. It was quite pricey though. That’s why I only wandered, window shopped, and took some pictures whenever I found something cool.

I also visited an iconic place nearby named Saint Anthony Heritage Trail Falls. Nearby, built a bridge which connects Twin Cities and Minneapolis. This bridge is so crucial because it is the mute witness how this city built from nothing. The professor said that the scenery would be better on summer where I could enjoy the river stream and stay warm. On shiny day, I could also go down and play with the water.

April 2^nd, 2018

A week has passed and my lust to explore Minnesota is still on fire. All Indonesian students in Minnesota are automatically joined on Persatuan Mahasiswa Indonesia di Minnesota (PERMIAS). Few days ago, we were invited to attend the Indonesian night in which all the students in Minnesota were summoned. This annual event took place on University of Minnesota since it has the largest Indonesian population.

I and all of Indonesian friends from Mankato came earlier in order to meet more Indonesian people but apparently, we were late. when we showed up the show has been begun already.

I am deeply honored to come to this event since some of the successful Indonesian figure would be the panelists. These persons have proven that they can be who they are now from the bottom. It was a pure inspiration. One of them was the General Manager of Apple Inc, one works for Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing (3M), one was the Gamelan expertise, the other one was the old lady who has been surviving living the US. They all shared on how they found success and how to surviving while holding their values in the US.

I can tell those panelists are exactly as they said just from the way they talk. They were being honest. They have sacrificed a lot of things to get to where they are right now. I am positive that they will be something beyond in the future. Their pep talks were really burning, it turns my zeal on.

I am not inspired to those people who can be crazy rich because of their parents’ money. Literally everybody can do it with a little effort. I am crazy to see people who turn nothing into something. I am the living witness to see that it could happen because I have seen it directly from this panel discussion.

This sharing session was interspersed by the Indonesian traditional dance and music. The dance performed was Saman and the musical instrument played was Angklung. The performance was actually very common but the way the students live Indonesian culture is worthy of standing ovation. They were probably didn’t get paid for performing and the rehearsal was so much tiring because they also had to sneak behind their tight college schedules. What can we say, love would make us do everything.

Upon the completion of the discussion, we were served with Indonesian food. That was the perfect time to broaden my networking. Sure enough I have made some new friends who have different majors but still good tho. We talked in Bahasa all over the Auditorium and the lobby. That was really cool.

I made it to meet the panelists in person. I still didn’t have that much courage to ask them question as if I’m not worthy of it but my friends were really passionate about digging as much as information from these people. I just followed them, responded them, and wondered how could persons these great become so modest.

To be continued to 4th part.

January 31^st, 2018

One of the biggest pleasure you can have while studying abroad is to have people of your nation. I am not denying that. Because it is a thousand percent true. People tend to fond those who have the same birth lands. As Nelson Mandela said, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, it goes to his heart”. Yes, I want to be fluent in English but not by eroding my mother tongue. Speaking Bahasa with these people are so priceless.

It was all started with my personal meeting with my international advisor in MNSU. After we had settled down our concerns, I got down to this question “am I the only Indonesian here?”. Then he said “no”. I was really excited to meet this people. A few days afterwards, my advisor emailed me and send the contact information of the Indonesian people. I contacted them right away. After a small talk in the Facebook, they finally invited me to come to one’s apartment and they welcomed me.

In honor to welcome my arrival on this campus, I don’t know weather it is the part of their tradition but they cooked me Indonesian foods. I almost forgot how Indonesian food taste like. That night was even better since they served me Indomie and we popped some “soda”. That night was running smoothly, we got to know each other. It was started from name then the convo got deeper into hobbies, girls, personal feelings, and so forth. We laughed in the same Indonesian jokes. These people are coming from Jakarta, Sulawesi, and Java but we have the sense of humor. Indonesian will be Indonesian everywhere in the world.

February 7^th, 2018

Minnesota State University Mankato is a huge campus with numerous students. it varies from 98 countries all over the world. I do not know whether this is true but I heard this fact on the orientation. I can assume that everyday I will meet different people either in the way to the library or when I have brunch. Every nationality carries each unique characteristic. It is funny to listen to their slight accents.

Based on my observation for the last few weeks and my little research, I could map the behaviors of some people based on their nationalities. Most of them considered as majority are so attached to their groups. Some of the groups Include Koreans, Most Africans, and Americans. I am generalizing, some of them are not. This is really bugging me off. If you are in the US, studying in the US education system, it’s so much better if you use English in daily basis. I said so because these people speak with only their own language and hanging out with the same person every day. I love chilling with my Indonesian friends but that does not mean I have to be with them all the time. I’ve got to sharp my English skills too. This makes them are not approachable. They always ganging everywhere. So, two days ago, I met this Korean people, I greeted him he replied and we talked. It was on the way to my dorm, we had a nice time. Suddenly, his Korean friend showed up and interrupted our conversation. They even spoke Korean in front of me and left me hanging seeing them talking. What a disrespect!

I have also now more confidence to greet people because I know how to do it. it is not as simply as saying “Hi” to people because people judge you (Personal Opinion). You have to say it cool to make you look cool and worth to talk to. The first impression is really important. For example, I said “what’s good” to Black American. They’d reply the same “what’s good” too. For Americans I use “how is it going” or “how are you doing”. It worked for me.

Americans are really hospitable. It is exhibited from the way they hold the door handles for you. So, I walked slowly on my way to the Dining Center, one American walked faster and passed me because he might be into something. That made him reached the door first. He saw, He opened the door for me and bear it for me. He waited to come out and let me go first. Then he let go the door and walked fast again. Seeing these examples everyday made me copy that habit. I did the same thing too ever since. The people that I helped, they never forgot to thank me with a sincere smile. No matter where you are or what your nationality is, goodness is goodness. it is contagious to your surroundings. Some might say that Americans are rude or whatsoever but what I felt is the complete opposite. so, there was one time I asked the room of one professors to one of the random students passing through the aisle. She opened her headset and tried to describe it to me. I was being frank and I had no Idea what she was directing me to because I said I was still new in this campus. I knew she was busy but she still took me there. What a nice person!

February 14^th, 2018

It is not always easy to make friends here. Because I’ve always wanted to have an extraordinary English skill like a real native speaker, I would be reasonable, according to my opinion, by mingling with the Americans. If it were in Indonesia, it would be really easy, we Indonesians have a similar sense of humor, hobby, and something in common. Those things are the best ammunition to build bromance. I have asked few people and concluded that networking is their main goal on making friends. This might be true because I have experienced it myself.

Undergoing one month in this state, I thought I would have American friends. I encounter with them every day on every corner of the campus yet none of them puts their attention on me. In the classroom, we can be really close discussing about the lectures, but when we’re out and encountered in the public places, say the Café, they acted like I am a stranger. This is weird. This is one the best reasons why Del is irreplaceable, it always feels like home wherever you are

it is all starting to fade away when one of my Indonesian friends invited me to go to church. the worship is just like anything else beside songs. They are not adapted from congregation hymn books. They are more modernized. It might be because the most congregations are students and kids. They welcomed me, asked me every unnecessary question just to get to know me closer to them. It was warming and happiness all over the air. I have never been treated this nice by Americans before. I don’t usually disclose myself to strangers but this feels different.

The church is a bit modernized. Every week is divided into two sessions: Wednesday and Sunday. The church is really fun to chill at. There is billiard, all kinds of board games, unlimited food, musical instruments that can be operated all the time placed on the basement. I usually come to the basement almost everyday to play pool and music with my Indonesian friends.

I personally perceive that a religion regardless what it is, does not only focus on the vertical relationship but also the horizontal one. Before the worship begun, we are catered with hot beverages and some American foods. This food is cooked by the local family there for free. while enjoying our food, we gather in the basement and interact. The affection is shown by noticing others. After the worship, we also gather in the basement and play. It feels like second home.

We also did some outdoor activities like skiing. Skiing was very challenging to me. I thought it was going to be easy just like the scene I saw on some movies but it wasn’t. The pastor drove us to the Mt. Kato and we might choose either to snowboarding our skiing. Either one is fine for me but skiing really caught my eyes. I suck at this sport and fell over and over again. Luckily, our pastor lessoned me how to do it step by step. After a few hours rehearsal, I could finally beat my first hill. What a day!

February 21^st, 2018

I have mentioned before that when it comes to studying, the American education system has a more practical approach. Without hesitation, I would say that it is true.

I am taking MET 425 Lean Manufacturing. For those who don’t know, Lean Manufacturing is a discipline who focuses on diminishing the waste on the plant. for every plant on earth, this course is really crucial to increase the productivity.

Exactly 4 days ago, we went on a factory tour to learn about what actually Lean Manufacturing is. It was at Saint Peter, one hour and a half drive from Mankato. Since I don’t have any personal transportation, the vice president of this MET Department let me tagging along to hers.

The company we went to was Alumacraft, it is a small – medium sized company. We were welcomed by the managers and lectured a basic code of conduct in the company. After putting on all the safety equipment, we went inside and observed how the steel and lumbers could be transformed into such beautiful boats.

It was really noisy inside the factory. I couldn’t really ask the managers and workers and they seemed really busy with their affairs. Even, I could manage to talk to them face to face but still I would not understand anything. The sound of the machine was really hurting my ears. It was all paid off, I have now better understanding about the real use of Lean Manufacturing.

We then moved to the boat inventory and the maintenance. The boats were stacked outside, waiting for the customers call. It was a fun trip. The managers offered us to have a full-time internship there. I’d love to take the opportunity but because of my Visa Status, it seems impossible.

February 28^th,2018

I love studying here in Minnesota. Even the weather is killing tropical – country human. After two months, it gets to the point where the excitement going downhill. seeing the same snow everyday in the same place would be a tedious. I’ve gotta visit at least the closest city to also loose the stress a little bit. one day without books and assignment.

My Indonesian friends thought about the escaping the routine as well. So, we were planning to go Minneapolis to find some fresh air.

It was on Friday February 23^rd, the perfect time to execute it. One of my friends just got his new car so we were using that car. We were three persons going on this trip, one of the two picked me up by the front lobby of my dorm. I was really hyped. The trip would take 2 hours – drive. It was quite distant and we did not want to burden all the costs fuel to the car owner. So, we split the gasoline.

The view was wonderful. During the trip my eyes were pampered by the snowy meadows and freezing forests. I opened down the window, I glanced while inhaling the cold – fresh air.  It felt like I could forget all my problems, quizzes, and the upcoming exams. I guess my eyes were glowing and my soul was relieved seeing this. Upon our arrival at Minneapolis, we drove slowly sightseeing the city view. Unlike Mankato, the city is filled with antique buildings.

In Minneapolis, we stopped by to some places but the most memorable place is the Minnesota State University. One of the best universities in the United States. The campus was hella huge. I have got to be frank but I am kind of jealous to this one. On UofM, in turns out to be a lot of Indonesian people, approximately 50 students. we had been told there was an Indonesian event there. It was also one of the reasons why we came there on the first place. We attended that meeting and it was a blast. Meeting with other crazy amazing Indonesians there was a blessing in disguise. We mingled, we talked, and introduced myself. I was very proud to convey that I am a Fulbright Scholar from Del Institute of Technology. Even none of them knew it. lol. it was even more intriguing because they served us Indonesian food like Gado – gado, Lontong, etc.

After the event, our curiosity of exploring this huge campus was messing with us. so, we took a walk for a moment and took some pictures. The day was almost turned into night so we wrapped it up. It was a tiring day so we stopped the Japanese Buffet Restaurant to eat.

To be continued to 3rd Part.

This is the story of Marselo Hamonangan Sitorus, One of the Engineering Management Students who had spread his wings internationally. He was honored to be chosen as one out of 5 Indonesians to represent Indonesia on Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) to experience living and studying the American culture for one semester. During his stay in the US, He was placed on Minnesota State University, Mankato. It was not easy for him to tackle all the challenges coming upon his ways but he somehow managed to survive and had a really good academic standing. Here is the story of him through thick and thin in the US.

January 3^rd, 2018

Most people spend their New Year’s Eve with their families but I did not. I was staying in hotel three days before my departure. I departed from Indonesia to Minnesota at January 2^nd, 2018. for those who don’t know, I am representing Indonesia for Global Undergraduate Exchange Program in the United States.

As I flew, still I pictured the moment of happiness on my beloved campus IT Del with my friends, staffs, and lecturers. Still I heard the sound of my family echoing telling me how proud they are about this achievement. Since then, I decided to only have one job, to not disappoint them. Thank you for their conviction on me.

Being in the International flight was not easy for me. I was confused about this and that. I was really paranoid that my luggage would not arrive at my last airport, or I would lose my passport and trapped on the airport and couldn’t go back. I was also still confused about what can and what cannot be carried to pass the security check. What if they put me in jail. It was kind of funny if I recalled it again. Lol. I don’t know how but somehow, I could manage to pass all those crazy things popped on my mind and made it safely to Minnesota.

I did not prepare well. I was told that it was going to be winter in this state but I looked it down. I was lectured by the staff that picked me up from the airport that Minnesota is considered to be the coldest state in the United States after Alaska. The only jacket that I have is the Himamera Jacket and I know and everyone knows for the fact that jacket with that thick would never ever save me from -30C. I wore no gloves, I wore no hats, just that jacket. It was killing me to my bone. Five more minutes on this weather and I’d be dead. And I was like “oh boy, how do I survive?”. It was all paid off because I was humbled by the people here and served by this kind of scenery.

January 10^th, 2018

The humans are meant to be together with others and that’s how I feel. At the very first day here, I didn’t have a friend, not a single one. My roommate is not even here because he is on spring break. I was all alone even in the dorm. It is snowy all over the place and had no idea where to go or what to do.

it was three days ago I saw a black dude who lives in the same dorm, same floor. I was a bit scared to approach this guy because I do not know how to befriend foreigner in a proper way. so, in the end, without any doubt, I went to his room and knocked his door. I had no idea why but he was super nice to me and welcomed me warmly. He asked me to stay over to his room and I asked him too. Short story, I knew that he is from Ethiopia and a transfer student from his country. After a long talk, we kind of hit it off and became bros. I took him anywhere, to the Dining Center, to the library, the Bullpen, the Central Student Union, everywhere I go.

Like the most universities, the first days are for the student orientation. It is just like every other common orientation, the supervisors directed us to take a stroll around campus while completing the number of things listed on the form given. The committee gave us the account that connected to all portals in MNSU named StarID. I guess most universities in the US undergoes the same system. So, paying the bills, printing, submission, registration, grading, quizzes, free wifi, etc. will be staked on this single account.

The orientation directed us to pick the courses. I have had this talk to both my honorable dean and the head of the study program. I already had the list but some courses are not available on spring semester. It’s either because of the university policy, lecturer availability, or the quota for each class. Most of them are because of insufficient seats. So, I took a time to discuss it over with my beloved advisor, Mariana Simanjuntak and finally got the resolution. My request to take 15 credits was accepted, two of them are on senior level, 1 one of them is for junior student, the other two are for freshman. I am actually a bit nervous and scared about taking these senior courses. It’d be a huge problem if I screwed up. I don’t know where I heard it but students who can’t maintain solid GPA above 2.00 will be terminated from this program.

I am not genius and the valid proof for that is I could not remember which direction I had to take to reach certain buildings with only going to those buildings once. My biggest mistake ever was to lose the map given during the orientation. I almost even skipped my first class on Fundamental of Communication because I was too busy looking for the building signs. I acknowledge my defect on remembering things but I am not shy to ask people. The people are so humble asking my every question even when they noticed me not following them. I even made more friends by roleplaying as a freaky lost person.

The first week is the toughest. It is not possible to carry all the stuff I needed from Indonesia. Beside the airport regulation on this matter about what can and cannot be taken, baggage maximum weight, etc., which chained me up. Some basic needs such as bath equipment, bed cover, pillow, rug, and so forth seem to be implausible carried from home. I realized that all this stuff was not going to be prepared, that’s why I wasn’t so surprised. But things are not going to change by itself. It requires forces. Recalling that I have a roommate that is not actually in this campus since he has been away for a winter break. He left most of his personal belongings in our room. I thought like “this is my exit!”. I was going to use some of his items until he comes back. Lol. But this will lead no good for future relationship. I have to save some respect to this guy. So, I’m using it up until I can find myself out the market and how to get there but only to the level he can’t detect it. I am just going to use it bit by bit.

The food has always been my biggest concerns. Growing up as Asian, rice has become our main source to harness carbohydrate. This is really critical, some people are failed studying overseas because of the vulnerability of their digestive system. The health comes first. That is a solid opinion I cannot argue on. Ever since I landed on this state, it is really hard to find rice. Even by any chance I encountered it, it tastes different. It was a few days after the orientation that I could finally eat rice in the Dining Center. I couldn’t be happier that my digestive system is not fighting back. What a triumph!

January 17^th, 2018

The first two weeks was the time I dedicated to settle things up and to adapt to the new environment. This week I dedicated to explore Mankato! The best place to be in Mankato is the lakes since it’s crazy cold here, the lakes are freezing. Someone can even bring their vehicles to the lake surface without being afraid the ice will crack. Some of those people who boldly playing with their lives in the frozen lake, dug a hole in the middle the lake and went fishing. I thought it was just in a movie.

I needed to fulfill my daily needs but I did not know where to go. Fortunately, the UGRAD fellows from other country who has already been here since last semester were willing to show us around. So, on MNSU, there are 4 other UGRADers who are extremely kind, those are Panamanian, Tajikistani, Turkmen, and Moroccan. My Tajikistani and Turkmen who brought us out the closest supermarket. It is well-known in the US and so called as Walmart. Every international student shops in this market. It provides everything with a reasonable price. This is not an endorsement but this place is highly recommended.

Wherever we stand, money always matters. The first two weeks I only used the dollars given by the AMINEF staff before my departure. My pocket is getting thinner and I had to deposit the check afforded to me so I could utilize it. so, I took the Mankato Bus, doubly checked the route and went to the downtown. The Bank I went for was Wells Fargo, it is considered to be one of the most used Bank for International Students. Maybe it is because the low tax and its accessibility. You will find easily this Bank anywhere in the US. I made it to the Bank and got my business done. It turned out to be better because I met the first Indonesian in that Bank, working as a teller. She was the one who made my bank account.

I strolled a little bit nearby the bank location afterwards. I accidentally found a row of antique buildings which kind of reminded me of the Romanian Empire. So, I took some selfies and the one I liked the most is the cathedral church. after a few moment I went sightseeing, I felt like going back to the bus stop. I tried to walk the same route but I was even getting further. I still do not have the US number and of course no internet. That means I could not use the maps, the Waze, or to order the online transportations. To make it even worse, my jacket was not that thick, and it was freaking -20C outside. After a few minutes, I didn’t feel like sensing my face, my hands were almost petrified, my nose was snotty, my ear lobes would go crack if I snapped it. I panicked, I went to some random buildings, standing on the heaters, and went out again. I asked some people but I did not understand them. I could not even think that time. After a few direction and guides, I could finally made it to the bus stop and went back safely. It was a bit dramatic but it was true.

January 24^th, 2018

The main purpose of this exchange program beside to learn American culture, is to ripen my understanding about the field I am currently passionate on. I feel like my strong desire and American education system would be the perfect match. I said so because it emphasizes on understanding/concepts and is committed on its practical side. All those two and my fondness to English will take me to the next level. I am so hyped.

The class has been commenced for the last two weeks. It has been very challenging to me. No matter how often I was listening to the English presentation, watching English movies without subtitles, and reading English comics, I still have some difficulties on understanding the professors. Not to mention but they speak really fast and I cannot catch up. Some of the old the professors even speak with old-fashioned English with a lot of idioms and technical terms. If I were to calculate my absorbing rate, it would be below 10%. I am not being modest. In order to chase the pace, I read the textbooks before the class begun.

The class atmosphere is so different. Everyone is so positively competitive. I was baffled seeing this too-good-to-be-true view. From now on, I will never wonder why Americans are so smart. When they are in class, they exist in the class and become present in the class. When they don’t like to be in the class, they don’t bother to attend. Some might see this as a madness but I personally perceive this as a genius. They are so well-managed in time, so they better do other productive activities outside rather than hearing nonsense in the classroom. I never saw any students playing Mobile Legend, Dota 2, out here. No offense please but they are really committed to their study, most of them, some may be not.

I can also spot the major difference between Indonesians and Americans in the sense of the participation of the students. Most Americans that I met in the classroom are so proactive. If they did not know a thing, they would directly ask the professors in the classroom. Even the smallest and the simplest question or even some unrelated-topic questions. Based on own experience, their questions are not so difficult, I am not bragging but even I could answer the question. One thing I am really startled about was their acknowledgement of not knowing things because not – knowing does mean stupidity but the process of learning, if you are willing to ask. I am generalizing based on what I have undergone for more than 10 years on the Indonesian school. The students are not so confident to speak for themselves, maybe it’s because how the norm shapes us. That is to be humble and modest. Some students are so not confident and ask their seatmates or their friends. So, there is a saying here in Mankato “Don’t believe your friends but your professors”. It doesn’t mean you can’t trust your friends at all, they can be correct too but don’t just rely on them. Because we don’t want to see the blind leading the blind.

To be continued to 2nd Part