M.Sc. Medical Biotechnology Student Tri Lestari from Indonesia Shares Her Journey of Studying at Chungbuk National University, South Korea

My name is Tri Lestari, and I am from Indonesia. I graduated from the University of Indonesia with a degree in Bioprocess Engineering. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a strong and growing interest in medical biotechnology, driven by my curiosity about how biological processes can be translated into real solutions for human health.

Studying bioprocess engineering allowed me to build a solid foundation in biotechnology while also encouraging me to think beyond theory, toward innovation, application, and impact. This academic journey motivated me to pursue further education, where I can deepen my expertise and contribute more meaningfully to advancements in medical and healthcare-related biotechnology.

Global Korea Scholarship Details

I am honored to have been awarded the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) of the Korean government in 2024. This fully funded scholarship allows me to pursue my master’s degree in Korea while fully focusing on academic development and cultural exchange.

Under the 2026 GKS guidelines, the scholarship covers full tuition fees at the host university and provides Korean language training for up to one year prior to the start of degree studies. During the language training period, scholars receive a monthly stipend of KRW 1,000,000, while during the master’s degree program, the stipend increases to KRW 1,300,000 per month to support living expenses. In addition, the scholarship provides round-trip airfare, enabling scholars to study and live in Korea with financial stability throughout their academic journey.

Educational Background

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Bioprocess Engineering from the University of Indonesia, graduating with a GPA of 3.73 out of 4.00. During my undergraduate studies, I intentionally took more credits than required for graduation, choosing advanced courses such as bioinformatics, genetic modification, and protein engineering to deepen my understanding of biotechnology beyond traditional engineering boundaries.

Although my academic training was rooted in engineering, this interdisciplinary curriculum equipped me with a strong foundation in biotechnology, particularly in areas closely related to medical and healthcare applications. Studying bioprocess engineering also shaped my problem-solving mindset and allowed me to view scientific challenges from an application-oriented perspective, bridging theory with real-world implementation.

This combination of rigorous engineering training and targeted biotechnology coursework has prepared me well to pursue advanced studies in medical biotechnology, where innovation, precision, and practical impact are equally important.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Institutions?

How Did You Find Information About Scholarships and Institutions?

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is well known in Indonesia, particularly among students who aspire to pursue higher education abroad. I was first introduced to GKS through an awardee, which sparked my initial interest. From there, I actively sought more information by watching experiences shared by scholars on YouTube, and eventually progressed to carefully studying the official guidelines to fully understand the application process and expectations.

My interest in Chungbuk National University developed through independent academic exploration. While researching advanced topics in my field, particularly mRNA vaccine development, I discovered that Chungbuk National University is one of the few institutions actively engaged in this area of research. The university’s strong focus on cutting-edge biotechnology aligned closely with my academic interests and long-term goals, making it a natural and compelling choice for my studies.

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

I submitted an IELTS certificate with an overall band score of 7.5. I chose IELTS because of its practicality and its strong emphasis on real-world academic and professional communication. As this was my first standardized English proficiency test, I began my preparation by familiarizing myself with the test structure, question types, and evaluation criteria.

Rather than enrolling in a formal preparation course, I chose a self-directed learning approach. I studied independently using preparation books and completed a full exam simulation to assess my readiness and identify areas for improvement. This process not only helped me achieve a strong score but also strengthened my confidence in using English for academic discussions, presentations, and research, skills that are essential for my graduate studies in Korea.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Scholarship?

After being rejected in my first application in 2023, I chose to view the experience as a learning opportunity and began preparing for the next application cycle much earlier and more strategically. I first focused on strengthening my language qualifications by obtaining my English proficiency certificate by October 2023. In parallel, I enrolled in an intensive beginner Korean language course for one month, followed by preparation for TOPIK I.

In addition to language preparation, I took online courses related to my intended major to further strengthen my academic background and align my profile with the field I planned to pursue in Korea. I also prepared two complete sets of application documents simultaneously for both the embassy track and the university track, ensuring flexibility and readiness throughout the selection process. I carried out this entire process while working full-time as a product developer at a multinational company, which strengthened my discipline, time management, and determination to succeed in a rigorous academic environment.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Korean?

Most classes are conducted in Korean. However, depending on the course and the professor’s policy, students may be permitted to take examinations in English.

What Did You Pursue After the Scholarship? (Work, Further Study, Research, or Something Else?) 

I have a strong interest in pursuing a career in the Korean pharmaceutical industry. While I was still in Indonesia, I applied to Daewoong Pharmaceutical twice, which helped me better understand the company’s expectations and the industry’s standards.

After completing my studies and gaining academic and cultural experience in Korea, I plan to apply again, as I believe I will be significantly better prepared, both professionally and personally, to contribute meaningfully to the company and to Korea’s biotechnology sector.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically Not Knowing Korean?

Yes, there may be academic challenges for students who do not have basic proficiency in the local language, as most classes are conducted in Korean. Without foundational Korean skills, students may need to invest significantly more time in self-study to fully understand lectures and course materials.

In addition, for STEM students who work in laboratories, limited Korean proficiency can make communication with professors, seniors, and lab members more difficult. However, these challenges can be effectively addressed through early language preparation and continuous effort, and overcoming them ultimately strengthens both academic performance and cultural integration.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because of the clarity and specificity of my academic goals. During my embassy interview, one of the interviewers mentioned that among the approximately 50 candidates selected from over 500 applicants, my personal statement was particularly memorable because I was the only applicant who discussed a specific research interest in depth, namely, the mRNA vaccine platform.

Rather than presenting a general interest in biotechnology, I focused on a clearly defined field and explained why it aligns with my academic background and long-term goals. This approach helped convey my genuine motivation and readiness to pursue specialized research in Korea.

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

If I were to go through the process again, I would invest more time in learning Korean earlier. Stronger language skills would not only further strengthen my application but also allow me to engage more deeply with Korean culture and maximize the benefits of the language training period.

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

My main advice is to start preparing Korean language skills early, even before applying. The GKS has become increasingly competitive each year, and the TOPIK requirement can be challenging. Having basic Korean proficiency allows applicants to manage academic demands more effectively while still having time to enjoy cultural exploration during the language training period.

For STEM applicants, I strongly recommend contacting potential professors early. Each professor has a limited quota for graduate students, and early communication helps ensure alignment between your research interests and the laboratory you join. Securing a position in a lab that truly matches your academic goals is crucial for a meaningful and productive research experience.

For convenience, I have included my photo in the same document. I have also shared my Instagram account for those who may wish to reach out. I would be happy to answer personalized questions from prospective applicants, especially those interested in the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), STEM majors, and the embassy track application process.