A Journey of Learning beyond Books
by Khizer Hayat
My name is Khizer Hayat, and I come from Pakistan. For me, learning is not confined to books—it can be found in every experience and every moment we live. As Albert Einstein once said, “The only source of knowledge is experience.” From October 16-17, 2024, I had the privilege of participating in a study excursion organized by the Faculty of Education at UIII, Depok, which proved to be a truly transformative journey.
Our adventure began as we departed from the dorms, leaving behind the familiar streets of Depok and Jakarta, and heading toward the serene, nature-rich city of Bandung. As we traveled through the vibrant cities, I felt like I was entering a whole new world, full of excitement and possibilities. As Confucius once said, “Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” This quote perfectly captured my mindset as we embarked on this journey.
Our first day was packed with exhilarating activities, including rafting and off-road adventures that got our adrenaline rushing. Every moment was captured on camera, preserving the memories forever. It reminded me of the quote by Susan Sontag: “I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.”
The night at Eco Park Hotel was an experience to remember. The cabins were cozy and charming, but what made the evening truly special was the live performance by the music band “9 Outbound Ciwidey.” Their energy filled the air with music, adding magic to the chilly weather. We gathered around a roaring fire, wrapped in our jackets, enjoying a barbecue, and sharing laughs. The warmth of the fire was matched only by the warmth of the company, as students and faculty danced, sang, and bonded over the joy of the night. As Henry David Thoreau said, “Friends… they are the sunshine of life.” This quote beautifully sums up the warmth of the evening.
The following day took us to 13 Junior High School in Bandung, where we participated in a vibrant cultural exchange with students from diverse backgrounds—Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkey, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Tanzania, the Philippines, Gambia, and Indonesia. The enthusiasm of the junior high students was infectious, and their warm welcome, combined with their traditional dances, was heartwarming. “The beauty of the world lies in the diversity of its people,” as Maya Angelou so eloquently said, and we truly experienced that beauty through this cultural exchange.
Throughout the journey, we were accompanied by the esteemed Dean, Nina Nurmila, PhD, along with professors and staff, who made every moment enjoyable. From the delightful snacks to the delicious meals at the hotel, everything was wonderfully planned. Even the bus rides were filled with non-stop singing, adding to the lively atmosphere. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Life is a journey, not a destination,” and the joy in the journey was palpable.
The highlight of our trip was the visit to Telkom University. We were greeted with an atmosphere of innovation and inspiration. The student presentations were simply remarkable. These young minds were not just students—they were scientists in the making, innovators ready to shape the future. The university’s vision and mission were shared with us, filling us with admiration. As Steve Jobs once said, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” The spirit of innovation was alive at Telkom University.
A memorable moment was the insightful lecture on management by Professor Dr. Djadja of Telkom University. His words about leadership and innovation left a lasting impression on me, inspiring new ideas for my own academic journey. As he said, “True leadership is about managing not just systems, but the hearts and minds of people.” This idea resonated deeply, reminding me that education is not only about gaining knowledge but also about becoming a compassionate leader.
As we made our way back to Depok, the sense of fulfillment was profound. The two-day experience felt like it carried the weight of two months of study. The lessons learned, the memories made, and the friendships formed will remain with me forever.
This study excursion was more than just a trip—it was a journey of discovery, learning, and cultural exchange. It reminded me that education goes beyond textbooks, and sometimes, as Oscar Wilde said, “Experience is the hardest kind of teacher. It gives you the test first and the lesson afterward.” Indeed, the best lessons are the ones we learn outside the classroom.