KOICA Scholar, Alfa from Indonesia, Earned a Master’s in Social Studies at Ajou University in South Korea

Hi, my name is Alfa, and I’m from Indonesia. I am a graduate of the KOICA–AJOU Civil Society Leadership Program, where I earned a Master of Arts in Social Studies from the Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS), Ajou University, in Suwon, South Korea.

This program is specifically designed for members of civil society organizations, non-government organizations, and other similar institutions in developing countries across Asia. It is a collaboration between Ajou University and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), aiming to equip young and mid-level civil society leaders from Korea’s partner countries with essential knowledge and leadership skills. The ultimate goal of the program is to strengthen civil society capacity and contribute to the social development of each participant’s home country.

Before joining this program, I worked for more than six years in the humanitarian field, supporting programs related to community empowerment and social inclusion. I’ve always been passionate about creating opportunities for people to grow, and I was also quietly nurturing my dream to continue my education.

At that time, I was simply someone who enjoyed her work but was still searching for her true path, wondering who I wanted to be in the future and what kind of career I wanted to build. I used to feel a bit envious of friends and colleagues who already had those answers. Funny, right? But this program turned out to be the answer for me. I didn’t have high expectations at first. I was just grateful to be accepted as one of the scholars. But during my studies, I found the clarity and self-understanding I had been looking for.

Joining the KOICA–AJOU program gave me time and space to reflect, grow, and rediscover my purpose. It strengthened my capacity to design and manage programs that could make a lasting impact, especially in the development and civil society sectors in Indonesia. And for that, I’ll always be deeply grateful.

KOICA Scholarship Details

I received the KOICA Scholarship, fully funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency, in partnership with Ajou University. KOICA scholarships are part of South Korea’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) program and are typically awarded to government officials from partner countries.

However, the KOICA–AJOU Civil Society Leadership program was unique. It opened the door for NGO and CSO professionals to join alongside government officers. I was incredibly fortunate to be the only Indonesian recipient from the NGO/CSO background in my batch.

The scholarship covered tuition, application fee, on-campus housing, airfare, insurance, and allowance of 999.000 KRW (roughly equivalent to 900 USD) per month. More than the financial support, though, it gave me the opportunity to connect with changemakers from across the world and learn from Korea’s development journey firsthand.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

The KOICA Scholarship was the only scholarship I applied for and received for my master’s degree. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that aligned perfectly with my professional journey and aspirations.

Looking back on my undergraduate years, I also received a scholarship from my university called Beasiswa Prestasi, an academic excellence award granted by my school to students who maintained a GPA above 3.5 out of 4.00. I graduated with a GPA of 3.80, which became one of my early motivations to continue learning and pursuing higher education in the future.

Educational Background

As I said before, I graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Social Work with a GPA of 3.80/4.00. My college is a state-run institution under the Ministry of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, established to train students to become professional social workers.

Looking back, I think this degree is one of the main reasons why I ended up working in the humanitarian field. During college, we were trained in almost every area: casework, group work, and community work. Beyond the classroom, I also enjoy doing various volunteering activities and community engagement programs. I went to the field and interacted with communities. It was really enjoyable.

Those experiences really shaped me. They made me realize how much I enjoy working with people, listening to their stories, and being part of small changes in their lives. That’s how I started my career in humanitarian work, and since then, I’ve been lucky to work on different projects with various NGOs. My work has touched so many areas: children, youth, families, disabilities, gender, health, and education. Each of them made me even more curious about how development really works.

I think that curiosity is one of the biggest reasons why I decided to apply for the KOICA scholarship. I didn’t want to just rely on what I already knew from school or work. I felt like I needed to learn more, update my knowledge, and step out of my comfort zone. Maybe, in a way, I was also looking for a new version of myself, and this program gave me that chance.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Ajou University?

How Did You Find Information About KOICA Scholarships and Ajou University?

I first learned about the KOICA Scholarship from my cousin, who had received it a year earlier for her master’s program at Ewha Woman's University. She’s the one who kept me updated about the scholarship information and constantly pushed me to finish the application process.

She was really strict with me: sending reminders, checking my progress, and making sure I didn’t miss any details. Honestly, she acted like my personal manager throughout the process! I wouldn’t have made it through without her support. Thank you for that, sis 😊

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Yes, even though Ajou University didn’t specifically require a language certificate, the Indonesian government requested applicants to have at least a TOEFL score of 500. It had been quite a while since I last took the TOEFL, so I had to retake the test.

Honestly, it was a bit challenging because I was preparing all my scholarship documents while managing a busy work schedule. I didn’t really have much time to study properly, so I looked for an institution that allowed me to take the test online. I practiced using free online try-outs whenever I could, usually late at night or during weekends. Thankfully, I passed the test!

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the KOICA Scholarship?

Preparing for KOICA was one of the toughest yet most rewarding journeys of my life. At that time, I was still working full-time, so I had to balance my professional duties with the demanding application process. including writing essays, collecting recommendation letters, and securing an endorsement from the Ministry.

Getting that endorsement letter was the hardest part. There were moments when I almost gave up, especially when deadlines were tight and approvals took longer than expected. But I was lucky to have my family, my cousin who acted like my manager, and my friends by my side throughout the process. They supported me endlessly, encouraged me when I was tired, and made sure I didn’t give up. Thanks to them, I completed everything on time.

Looking back, I realize it wasn’t just hard work. it was also about timing. As the eldest daughter, I had always put my dreams on hold. focusing on work, helping my family, and taking care of others. But that year, everything seemed to align perfectly: my younger brother had graduated, my mother’s job became stable, and she told me, “It’s your turn now. Go chase your dream.” That moment still gives me goosebumps. It felt like life was gently whispering, “This is your time.”

How Is (was) Your Experience at Ajou University?

My 17 months in South Korea were truly transformative. Studying at Ajou University was a blend of challenge and discovery. It was academically rigorous, yet deeply personal and enriching. The program beautifully combined theory with practice, and our discussions often connected global frameworks with real issues happening in our own countries.

Beyond the classroom, I learned a lot about Korean culture, discipline, and resilience. I met classmates from across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. All of them are passionate about making a difference in their communities. Those friendships taught me more about global solidarity than any textbook ever could.

During my studies, I also found new ways to express myself creatively. I designed visuals for The Gazette, the university’s magazine, as well as for several class projects, including Music Management and Art Management, which were lectures outside my Civil Society courses.

These experiences felt like a spring breeze for me. giving me something I never had before: time for myself. They helped me relax, enjoy the learning process, and appreciate the beauty of trying new things. I even took more credits than I needed, simply because I wanted to explore and enjoy the process more.

It also reminded me of a simple yet meaningful quote: “If you want to make the people around you happy, you should be happy first.”

How Do You Rate Ajou University Academically and Why?

8/10

How Does the Institution Support International Students?

The Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS) is designed specifically to support international students. All students under GSIS are international, so the environment is very diverse and welcoming.

They provide all administrative services in English, and also offer basic Korean language classes to help us adapt and manage daily life in Korea. In addition, GSIS offers free consultation services in English for students who need academic or personal support. Basically, they help us a lot! Whenever you need something, you can simply reach out to the GSIS office, and they’ll happily assist you with anything you need.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Korean?

All classes under the GSIS are conducted in English, which makes it easier for international students like us to follow the lectures and participate actively.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing Korean?

I don’t think so. Most of my classmates couldn’t speak Korean, and they didn’t have any problems following the classes. However, if I can give one piece of advice, learning the native language is still very important, even if your classes are conducted in English. It will help you a lot in many ways, especially in daily life and when connecting with local people.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because it reflected sincerity and purpose. I didn’t come from the government officer background that most applicants had, but I showed how my experience in civil society aligned with the program’s goals.

In my essays, I emphasized that development should be inclusive that real change happens when the government and civil society work hand in hand. I think KOICA recognized that authenticity and believed in my vision.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Actually, I don’t have any regrets about the process I went through. It was an amazing journey that, of course, was full of ups and downs. But I truly enjoyed it.

However, if I had the chance to go back, I think I would look for more opportunities, like joining a more internship program (I only joined once) or applying as a professor’s assistant. It would have been a great way to gain more hands-on experience and connect deeper with the academic community.

Or maybe I will try to explore Korea more. Visiting more places or small and local cafes.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

If you’re dreaming of applying for the KOICA Scholarship or any other scholarship. Really,  my advice is simple: know your “why.” Your “why” will guide you through every sleepless night, every document revision, and every doubt that tries to stop you.

Don’t be discouraged if your path looks different. I didn’t come from a government background, and for years I thought that meant my chances were smaller. But what matters most is your story, your experience, your sincerity, and your willingness to grow and give back.

And when that moment finally comes, when you open that long-awaited email that says “Congratulations!” you’ll realize it was never just about going abroad. It’s about stepping into the version of yourself you’ve always dreamed of becoming.