Juniar pursued her Master's degree in Political Analysis and Public Policy at the National Research University - Higher School of Economics (HSE). After discovering this program through Online Result, she shared her journey and insights regarding applying for international studies.
Tell us a bit about yourself. What is your name? How old are you? Where are you from?
Hello everyone, I am Juniar Laraswanda Umagapi, but you can call me Wanda. I am 22 years old and originally from Ternate, a small city in East Indonesia.
Where are/were you studying and what programme? What degree and how long is your programme?
I am currently pursuing my Master's degree in Moscow, Russia. I am enrolled in the two-year Master’s program in Political Analysis and Public Policy at the National Research University - Higher School of Economics (HSE).
Why did you want to study abroad?
The decision to study abroad was driven by a desire to challenge myself and test my ability to adapt and thrive in an unfamiliar country.
I am passionate about meeting new people and immersing myself in cultures, religions, and social behaviors that differ significantly from my life in Indonesia. I aim to grow as an independent individual while benefiting from high-quality international education systems.
Studying abroad was not a lifelong dream, but rather a pursuit of meaningful experiences. It has taught me self-reliance; however, I have also learned the importance of building a support system and relying on friends when necessary.
I appreciate the academic style here, which offers a unique perspective compared to my home country while still maintaining some familiar elements.
What were your main priorities when choosing your university and your programme (e.g. academics, accommodation, university services & facilities, personal & professional development, city & culture, cost & funding, practicalities, social life)?
My choice of university was driven by the specific curriculum. The Master in Political Analysis and Public Policy program offered a comprehensive approach that made me eager to dive into the complexities of the field.
HSE is globally recognized as one of the best universities in Russia and the BRICS nations. The campus facilities are excellent, providing everything a student needs—from printing and scanning services to high-quality dining options.
The campus infrastructure is well-organized with buildings spread across Moscow. As a recipient of a Russian government scholarship, my tuition is fully covered, and I also receive a monthly stipend to support my living expenses.
From an Indonesian perspective, the dormitory is quite comfortable—resembling an affordable apartment. Each room is equipped with a fridge, cupboard, bed, and private bathroom, while shared amenities like a laundry room, kitchen, and study area are available on every floor.
Relocating was straightforward, as the housing is fully furnished. I have found the Russian people to be respectful and inclusive. As a Muslim woman, I have felt welcomed by the friendly and open-minded local community.
I truly enjoy connecting with my classmates; the diversity of their backgrounds and perspectives makes our discussions incredibly engaging and intellectually stimulating.
Was this your first study choice? What other universities did you consider? What was the main reason of your final choice?
Initially, Spain and Romania were my top choices due to their unique cultures and environments, which I found particularly appealing.
I prefer avoiding mainstream, overcrowded study destinations. Although I received a recommendation letter for a Romanian government scholarship, I was unable to complete the application process, a decision I look back on with some regret.
Following that, I applied to several UK institutions, including University College London, Glasgow, Goldsmith, SHU, and Westminster, and successfully received letters of acceptance, though I was still awaiting scholarship outcomes.
While waiting for my UK scholarship results, I received notification of my selection for the 2015 Russian government scholarship scheme. I decided to accept it immediately. I am someone who commits fully to my decisions, regardless of the potential for regret.
Did you know from the start that you wanted to study in that particular country and city? Why did you choose this particular location?
From the outset, I was flexible about which country I would ultimately choose for my Master's studies.
I chose Moscow specifically for the wealth of professional and internship opportunities it offers. My decision was also influenced by Russia's rich history and strong academic reputation, topics we frequently discussed during my Bachelor’s degree.
How did Online Result help you in your decision process?
Online Result played a vital role in my journey, as it was where I first encountered my program. I carefully reviewed all the information provided about the university on the site before applying.
Did you take a language test (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS) when applying for the programme? If yes, which one did you choose, why and how was your experience with it?
I chose the IELTS exam to satisfy language requirements, as it is widely recognized by most international universities. While IELTS poses certain challenges, I believe any language proficiency test requires dedicated preparation.
I prepared by practicing extensively. Five years ago, my English proficiency was minimal, but my Bachelor’s studies in International Relations helped me sharpen my language skills through daily practice and academic necessity.
Resources for IELTS are abundant online. I recommend utilizing websites, Google searches, and YouTube tutorials to master the four key components: speaking, writing, reading, and listening.
What would be your advice for students from your country that consider studying abroad?
To fellow Indonesian students aspiring to study abroad: stay mentally resilient. The program is rigorous and demands students who can think quickly and make effective decisions under pressure.
Above all, maintain respect for diverse cultures. No culture or religion is inherently superior to another. Openness and socialization are key to building a strong network of friends across different countries.
How did you finance your stay abroad and what financial advice would you give to future students?
There are two primary ways to study here. First, through scholarships like mine, which cover tuition and provide living stipends. I encourage students to explore programs provided by both the Russian and Indonesian governments, such as LPDP.
The second option is self-funding, which can be expensive. To manage costs, cooking in your dormitory is highly effective. While working while studying is possible, it typically requires proficiency in Russian, so learning the language basics before you arrive is essential.
Why would you (not) recommend this particular city / university? How would you rate your experience on a scale from zero to ten (0 – It was a total disaster, 10 – I had the time of my life)?
I am very confident that this experience has prepared me well for the future. Although there was a slight language barrier, the people in Moscow are very open-minded. I would rate my experience a 10 out of 10 and I continue to engage in organizations and language learning.
Is there anything that you would do differently if you could do it over again?
In hindsight, I wish I had started learning English more seriously in junior high school to ensure I was better prepared for international education.
What was the biggest surprise in your study abroad adventure?
The biggest adjustment for me was the weather. Coming from a tropical climate in Indonesia, experiencing a harsh, cold Russian winter was quite a shock and required significant preparation in terms of clothing.
Were you inspired by Wanda's study abroad journey?