Poco a Poco: Stella Sutedja’s Journey at Lancaster University (IISMA 2022)
By Stella Sutedja
November 16, 2022
Ever since I was little, I’ve always struggled to answer what my dream was. I didn’t know
what I wanted to be, nor any professions I’d like to embark most of my life in. However,
growing up, I realized that having a dream conflicts with the definition of “as is”. My dream is
to be a sincere person that is perfectly content with her own presence and can also inspire
other people. It may sound rather generic, but for me, I have smaller goals that I celebrate
on my way to achieving my dream.
One of those milestones would be studying abroad. I’ve always loved the idea of embracing
a new environment, escaping my routine, and most importantly meeting new people! After
continuous efforts, endless revisions, and a rollercoaster selection process, tears were shed
when I was named one of IISMA 2022 Awardees.
Alas, now I’m 20 years old and currently at Lancaster University (Bailrigg, UK). Time flies a
tad bit too fast when we’re enjoying time. It felt like I’d just left Indonesia a few days ago, yet
it has been over two months long.
Throughout my time here, I learnt a lot. In a nutshell, I have been blessed to meet with some
of the most amazing peers. Moreover, to study in the UK’s top 15 universities and emerge
into understanding, adapting, and fully-captivating living abroad.
The People
After exploring some parts of the UK, one thing I realised about Lancaster is that it’s home. If
asked what’s so special about Lancaster, without any hesitation, I would answer its people.
To be fair, we don’t have much in this small yet beloved city.
Us and our routines:
1. Badminton with the Indonesian Society every Tuesday
2. Sainsbury’s Grocery Shopping every Wednesday
3. Therapy and ‘Study’ Sessions in the library
4. Travels every Saturday and Sunday
To be frank, many smiles have turned into frowns when the topic of leaving or going home
arose in conversations. Amongst fellow IISMA Awardees at Lancaster University, our
international friends, and even the Indonesian students here. Nevertheless, these memories
will last eternally, the good times to be cherished and nostalgic about.
The Education System
Never have I expected myself to fall in awe with a module, this is my first time embracing
media studies with MSC 101. Transformations from Mass Media to Social Media. I also
really appreciate how the lecturers always give a full outline of the full course, with all the
resources available from day one. Besides that, students are always encouraged to
participate in class discussions (especially during seminars) and it helps because we’re
prepared with the pre-reading materials. Lastly, the teaching staff has been wonderful in
assisting students and welcoming questions that might at all come forth.
The ‘Living Abroad’ Expectations,
Believe it or not, this is my first time away from the comfort of home. Aside from adapting,
taking proper care of myself, and ‘adulting’. Funny thing is that I was expecting a strong
British accent coming here but turns out very few people still have such an accent. Living
abroad has been amazing, I am able to travel a lot with my friends and see wonderful places
in the UK. So far, we visited a lot of cities and are planning for more!
All in all, I’m convinced that it would be very bittersweet to come home. I love Lancaster,
especially the people. Whatever happens, poco a poco, little by little I will get to where I want to be by celebrating where I’m at right now. We’ll see what the future holds and can’t wait to unfold more chapters ahead.