SURABAYA – Securing a scholarship to study abroad is a dream shared by many, and for Shintia Yunita Arini, S.KM., M.K.KK, that dream has become a reality. A lecturer at Universitas Airlangga’s (UNAIR) Faculty of Public Health, Arini is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Queensland, Australia, through the prestigious Australia Awards Scholarship (AAS).
Reflecting on her journey, Arini emphasized that earning such a competitive scholarship requires meticulous preparation, from crafting compelling essays and detailed CVs to excelling in the final interview stage.
Clear, Focused Essays Are Key
One of the most common pitfalls for Indonesian applicants, Arini noted, is writing overly complex essays that stray from the main point.
“Many applicants want to showcase everything at once, but the essay should directly answer the question. Save the comprehensive overview for your CV,” she advised.
As an example, she cited the frequent question about university choice. Rather than offering generic responses, Arini urged applicants to conduct in-depth research and provide specific, evidence-based answers.
“Explain what sets that university apart. What programs or resources does it offer that aren’t available in Indonesia? That shows you’re serious and informed,” she said.
She also recommended seeking feedback from others before submitting the essay. “We tend to lack objectivity when reviewing our own writing. Get input from a peer, mentor, or former scholarship recipient. It can make a big difference,” she added.
Crafting a Strong, Honest CV
Beyond the essay, Arini highlighted the importance of a well-prepared CV that outlines relevant work experience, academic projects, volunteer efforts, and achievements.
“Don’t be shy about highlighting your accomplishments. For scholarship applications, it’s important to be both thorough and confident,” she explained.
She also underscored the need to maintain a professional and accurate LinkedIn profile, noting that scholarship committees often cross-reference CVs with applicants’ online presence.
“In my case, they reviewed my LinkedIn profile during the selection process. So make sure it aligns with your CV—integrity matters,” she said.
Aligning Interview Responses with Application Materials
According to Arini, the interview phase often draws directly from the essay and CV, making consistency across all application components essential.
“If your interview responses don’t match what you wrote, they’ll catch it and dig deeper. Be authentic and prepared,” she advised.
She also stressed the value of demonstrating adaptability and openness—traits highly regarded in international academic settings.
“They’re assessing how well you’ll fit into a diverse, global environment. Your responses will reveal your mindset, so start cultivating a comfort with cultural differences early on,” she concluded.
Arini’s insights provide a valuable roadmap for aspiring scholars aiming to follow in her footsteps and secure the Australia Awards Scholarship.
