Maria Rosita Tumbelaka an English Literature Student Who Helped Filipino Farmers During UGSMA 2026
International student exchange programs are no longer just about travel or classroom learning. This was proven by Maria Rosita Tumbelaka, a 2024 English Literature student from the State University of Surabaya (Unesa), Magetan Campus, who recently completed the Unesa Global Students Mobility Awards (UGSMA) 2026 at Batangas State University, Philippines.
โReturning on April 28, 2026, Maria brought home an inspiring narrative of how Indonesian students can contribute to global issues and community empowerment on the international stage.
โDuring her month-long stay (March 29 โ April 28), Maria immersed herself deeply in the Filipino way of life. From singing the national anthem and traditional dancing to cooking local delicacies like Chicken Adobo, Lo-mi, and Turon, she moved beyond the role of a typical exchange student.
โโWe didn't just become visitors. We became a part of the culture itself.โ Maria stated. Her journey also included deep dives into history, visiting the country's oldest churches and museums to understand the figures behind Philippine independence, and exploring the artistry of the Barong Tagalog, the national costume.
โThe highlight of Mariaโs journey is her contribution to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Alongside her peers, Maria developed a strategic business proposal to assist local Filipino farmers in the coffee and sugar sectors.
โThis initiative demonstrates that English Literature students possess the cross-disciplinary skills needed to solve grassroots economic problems through effective global communication. Furthermore, Maria participated in an arts workshop that produced a collaborative song blending Indonesian and Filipino languages, embodying SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
โDespite facing an initial language barrier in daily interactions, Mariaโs adaptability shone through. She noted that her familiarity with diverse environments helped her navigate the challenge.
โ"Interestingly, many Tagalog words are similar to Bahasa Indonesia, which made it easier to get the hang of it when we went out to buy dinner or necessities," she recalled. She also tackled the local climate with a practical mindset, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated and resilient.
โAs a student still in the early years of her degree, Maria encourages her fellow students at Unesa Magetan to embrace international opportunities. To her, education has no borders, and every global experience is a door to personal and professional maturity.
โโDon't be afraid of experience international scope activities that could boarden your perspective in life. If you are hesitant to take that oppoy, try to think of it this way, learning doesn't have limitations. It opens the door to many opportunities to help you grow. So, don't be afraid to try takung that chance and create your own memories through that experience.โ She said as the message to all the students in or out of English Literature degree.
