Surabaya – New students of the Fisheries Product Technology (THP) Study Program, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine (FPK), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), were encouraged to gain a broader perspective on student life through a study program introduction session held as part of the 2026 Campus Life Introduction for New Students (PKKMB). Moving beyond a conventional introduction to the curriculum, the session featured Andini Ariani Carolina, a THP alumna from the 2022 cohort, who shared her experiences and highlighted various opportunities for personal and professional development available to students throughout their university journey.
Through her personal experiences, Andini introduced the freshmen to a wide range of opportunities available to THP students, including internship programs, student exchanges, competitions, and various personal development activities. These opportunities allow students to gain practical experience, broaden their perspectives, develop professional networks, and strengthen competencies that can support their readiness to enter the professional world.
Encouraging Students to Explore Opportunities
During her presentation, Andini encouraged the new students not to limit themselves to their regular academic routines. She emphasized that university is an important period for exploring new experiences that can broaden knowledge, build connections, and strengthen both academic and non-academic skills. Programs provided by the faculty and university can serve as valuable platforms for students to develop their potential beyond the classroom.
The freshmen were also introduced to various international programs, including student exchange opportunities that allow students to study at partner universities while experiencing different academic environments and cultures. Through these programs, students can gain international exposure while developing adaptability, communication skills, and a broader understanding of the global academic community. Meanwhile, internship programs provide opportunities for students to gain firsthand experience in the industry, enabling them to understand how the knowledge acquired during their studies is applied in professional settings and to become more familiar with challenges they may encounter after graduation.
Building a Portfolio from the Beginning
Beyond experiences outside the classroom, Andini highlighted the importance of building a portfolio from the early stages of university life. Active participation in student organizations, competitions, training programs, and other personal development activities can provide valuable experience and become an important asset when students enter the workforce or pursue further education.
The enthusiasm of the freshmen was evident throughout the session. Various questions regarding internship experiences, the process of participating in student exchange programs, and strategies for balancing academic responsibilities with extracurricular activities contributed to an engaging discussion. The interaction allowed students to gain practical insights into how they could make the most of their university experience while managing their academic commitments.
Through this sharing session, the freshmen gained not only an overview of life in the Fisheries Product Technology Study Program but also a deeper understanding that opportunities for growth are available from the very beginning of their university journey. These broader learning experiences contribute to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by supporting the development of academic and non-academic competencies, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by providing experiences that prepare students for the professional world, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaborative programs and student exchanges that expand academic networks at both national and international levels.
Writer: Fahmi Bayhaqi
Editor : TPA
