As a student, life on campus is certainly the center of your daily activities, from lectures, group discussions, to organizational activities.
However, participating in off-campus activities is equally important. Why is that?
Here are some reasons why students need to do off-campus activities, including through the Independent Learning Independent Campus (MBKM) program.
Soft Skills Development
Outside of campus, students have the opportunity to develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork.
For example, being involved in social communities or non-profit organizations can hone your ability to communicate with various levels of society, as well as learn to work in diverse teams.
These soft skills are invaluable in the working world, where the ability to interact and collaborate is often the key to success.
Through MBKM, students can join internship programs, student exchanges, or humanitarian projects that contribute to the development of soft skills.
Networking and Relationships
Off-campus activities open up opportunities to expand networks and relationships. Students can meet professionals from various fields, expanding connections that may be useful in the future.
These relationships are not only important for job opportunities, but also for project collaboration, finding mentors, and sharing knowledge and experience.
The MBKM program allows students to interact with various industry and academic partners, thus expanding connections.
Application of Theory to Practice
Through internships, part-time work, or engaging in community projects, students are able to put the theories learned in the classroom into practice.
This experience provides a deeper understanding of their field of study, as well as helping to make the connection between academic knowledge and the real world.
MBKM supports this by providing opportunities for students to get hands-on with real projects in various sectors.
Self-Development and Independence
Off-campus activities help students become more independent and responsible. Facing challenges outside the academic environment requires them to think critically and make decisions independently.
This is very important for self-development and preparation for life after graduation.
MBKM provides various activity options that challenge students to get out of their comfort zone and learn to deal with various situations.
Contribution to Society
Being involved in social or environmental activities provides an opportunity for students to contribute positively to society.
This not only has a good impact on the surrounding environment, but also provides valuable experience and increases students’ sensitivity to society.
Students who are active in social activities often become more empathetic and caring individuals towards social issues.
Through MBKM, students can participate in community empowerment projects, such as Thematic KKN or village service.
Untar itself facilitates its students to undergo MBKM with various programs, both independently and from the Independent Campus program.
This is proven by the award as the Best MBKM Organizing College from LLDikti III that Untar received in 2022.
Off-campus activities, including those provided through the MBKM program, are not just a complement to student life, but an integral part that supports holistic self-development.
Therefore, it is important for students to actively seek and engage in various off-campus activities.
Thus, students not only enrich their personal experience, but also prepare themselves to be individuals who are ready to face challenges in the future.
Article compiled from several sources (KJ/AW/KJ)