Meulaboh- Students from the English Education Department (TBI) STAIN Teungku Dirundeng Meulaboh joined an online session with Lilis Su’adah, an adviser at EducationUSA, on November 6, 2024.

The session, held via Zoom, provided valuable insights into exchange programs and studying at accredited colleges and universities in the United States.

Lilis encouraged students to explore a range of U.S. exchange programs tailored to their interests and backgrounds. “There are many programs you can try, so make the most of your college years by participating in positive activities,” she advised.

On the same occasion, Ahmad Yusuf Mubarak, a student from UIN Ar-Raniry, shared his experience studying at the University of Nevada, Reno, through a short-term academic program. Yusuf spoke enthusiastically about the program’s cultural activities, academic sessions, community service, and final capstone project.

“It was an amazing experience. The activities were varied and impactful,” Yusuf said. He encouraged STAIN Meulaboh students to take advantage of similar opportunities and advised them to keep building their English skills. “You’ll still have time to improve your language skills before leaving,” he reassured.

EducationUSA Aceh’s session was a great opportunity for STAIN Meulaboh students to learn more about studying in the United States and get inspired by a fellow student’s journey.

Meulaboh – The Sociolinguistics class led by Rena Juliana, M.Pd., at the English Education Department (Tadris Bahasa Inggris), STAIN Teungku Dirundeng Meulaboh, had the privilege of hosting Dr. Hj. Meinarni Susilowati, M.Ed., as a guest lecturer, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Dr. Meinarni from UIN Malang shared her insights on the topic of “Language and Gender.”

This engaging and interactive session offered students new perspectives on the relationship between language and gender, a relevant theme in sociolinguistic studies. Dr. Meinarni also expressed her intention to donate a limited number of books on the subject to support student learning.

During the session, Rena Juliana provided a summary of the material covered so far and introduced a small project for the students. This project encourages students to investigate language phenomena within society, divided into three research groups.

One group will investigate the efforts to preserve regional languages amid the pressures of modernization, providing insights into language maintenance practices. Another group will explore the diversity of Acehnese dialects, examining their unique characteristics and differences. A third group is set to delve into the evolution of slang, studying its development and role within the local society.

The collaboration with Dr. Meinarni has greatly motivated students to delve deeper into the sociolinguistic aspects surrounding them.

Meulaboh-An international seminar titled “Cross-Cultural Understanding: Challenges and Opportunities for Students in the International World” was held, featuring prominent speakers Fajar Nina Purnama Alam, an Executive Committee member of MATSA, Penang, and Anuar bin Abdullah, a Bachelor of Islamic Studies and Arabic Language graduate from Kolej Ihsaniah Kedah, Malaysia, Tuesday, September 24, 2024.

During his address, Ustadz Usman highlighted STAIN’s innovative approach to Cross-Cultural Understanding, emphasizing the importance of practical experience.

“One of the best systems at STAIN is the practice of Cross-Cultural Understanding, not just the theory. STAIN students should go to Malaysia and Thailand to gain deeper insight into different cultures. This will help us build connections and foster harmony, reducing the risk of conflicts among us,” he explained.

Ustadz Fajar also touched on the close historical bond between Aceh and Malaysia, particularly in the Kedah and Penang regions. “Many Acehnese scholars have visited, settled, and contributed knowledge in Kedah and Penang. This deep cultural and intellectual exchange has made Malaysians feel at home in Aceh, as if they were returning to their own country. The emotional connection between us is very strong,” he remarked.

The seminar provided participants with meaningful insights into the power of cross-cultural understanding and the importance of fostering strong relationships across borders.