My name is Muhammad Rafiandra Aulia Putra, a student of Civil Engineering at BINUS University, with student ID 2502007685, from the Class of 2021. In the odd semester of 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a Study Abroad program at Sapienza University of Rome, Italy, which took place from September 2024 to February 2025. This program is part of BINUS University’s internationalization efforts and marked a significant milestone in my academic journey.

Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine especially in Europe, a region rich in history, culture, and engineering heritage. Italy, as one of the world’s centres of civilization and home to many iconic structures, offered the perfect setting. Sapienza University of Rome, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, provided a vibrant academic atmosphere and new perspectives in the field of civil engineering.

During the program, I experienced firsthand how the higher education system in Italy differs from what I was used to in Indonesia. The teaching methods were highly interactive, encouraging students to participate actively in discussions, present their own ideas, and think critically. I also had the opportunity to engage in group projects and real-world case studies, such as analyzing historic structures in Rome and exploring urban infrastructure planning through sustainable development approaches.

Beyond academics, I gained so much personally from this journey. I formed friendships with students from various countries, expanding my global network and cultural understanding. Living in Rome also meant adapting to a new daily routine shopping for groceries at local markets, learning the public transport system, and experiencing life from the perspective of a local Italian resident.

In between my studies, I travelled to several iconic destinations such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Milan, Lake Como, Venice, and even Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid, Spain. These travels were more than just sightseeing; they enriched my appreciation for history, culture, and the timeless engineering marvels that have stood the test of time.

Overall, this experience was one of the most memorable moments in my academic life, both intellectually and personally. I believe that opportunities like this are essential in shaping globally minded civil engineers not just technically competent, but also adaptable, open-minded, and collaborative across cultures.

I strongly encourage fellow students to take part in this kind of program if the opportunity arises. Studying abroad is not only about learning in a different country it’s also about discovering new perspectives, building lifelong friendships, and growing into the best version of yourself in a world full of possibility.