Once Again, Students from the Japanese Language Education Study Program at Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha Make a Proud Achievement
Four PBJ Undiksha students have successfully passed the selection to participate in a six-month internship program at Hotel Nikko Alivia in Okinawa, Japan. This program offers students the opportunity to apply the knowledge they have gained in their studies while also experiencing the work ethic in Japan firsthand in its country of origin.
On this occasion, the author had the opportunity to interview one of the four PBJ students selected for the internship, Azzahra Novelia Khairunnisa, who is often called Ara, from the 7th semester. Ara-san expressed her happiness upon hearing the announcement that she had been accepted for the internship. She had to overcome various challenges before being declared successful. Ara-san had to convince her parents and carefully consider the family’s financial situation to be able to join the program. Additionally, she prepared herself by asking friends who had previously participated in internships in Japan, compiling a list of frequently asked interview questions, studying internship interview videos, and practicing interview simulations. Now, Ara-san is preparing to depart for Japan, from securing a passport and visa to budgeting for living expenses in Japan.
Ara-san also shared tips for other students who are interested in pursuing an internship in Japan. First, find reference questions as a guide for the interview and prepare answers in advance. Second, craft responses that are not too rigid—simple yet unique—so that the interviewer can see your personality and appeal, but avoid memorizing answers as it will be obvious if you’re reciting them. Third, master the language used in the interview because all answers must be given spontaneously, so you must respond quickly. Lastly, always smile, even if you’re nervous. In her closing statement, Ara-san said, “After giving your best effort, surrender to the outcome, because the results will never betray your hard work.”
May this achievement inspire other students to continue excelling and make Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha a leading educational institution on the international stage.
