Exploring New Horizons: My Journey to Jakarta for the US-ASEAN STIC Annual Symposium
My Unforgettable Journey to Jakarta and the US-ASEAN STIC Annual Symposium
Sometimes in life, opportunities come knocking at your door, and all you need to do is open it. My journey to Jakarta, Indonesia, for the US-ASEAN STIC (United States-ASEAN Science, Technology, and Innovation Cooperation) Annual Symposium was one such opportunity that I couldn't resist.
Discovering the US-ASEAN STIC:
The story began when I stumbled upon the US-ASEAN STIC program. While I can't quite remember where I first heard about it, I decided to enroll myself in this exciting initiative. Initially, I chose the Entrepreneurship & Innovation (E&I) track and submitted a pitch proposal, driven by my passion for innovation. However, my initial attempt didn't make it to the top 35 finalists.
Adapting and Rising:
Undeterred, I decided to pivot. I reached out to the program administrator, Thao Tran, requesting a switch to the Science & Technology Track. This change would make me eligible to submit a research proposal and hopefully secure a spot among the top 35 finalists. Little did I know how challenging this new track would be.
Navigating the Science & Technology Track:
In the Science & Technology Track, I opted for Information Technology—a field quite different from my background in Accounting and Finance. To qualify, I had to complete three mandatory courses, one guided project course, and another optional one. The most challenging part was mastering a Computer Science course on Coursera, an e-learning platform.
The Power of Friendship:
Here's where the power of friendship and a supportive network became evident. With the guidance of a resourceful friend experienced in IT, I overcame my struggles with the course. This experience reaffirmed the importance of having friends who are there for you when you need them most.
Setting Foot in Jakarta:
Once I successfully passed the course, it was time to embark on my journey to Jakarta, Indonesia. The destination was not entirely unfamiliar, as I had previously worked in Indonesia during my tenure at a Shared Service Center. However, this trip had a different purpose—to attend the STIC Annual Symposium at the luxurious Park Hyatt Jakarta.
The Park Hyatt Experience:
My stay at Park Hyatt Jakarta was nothing short of amazing. The hotel exudes sophistication and comfort, making it a highly recommended choice for anyone visiting Jakarta.
Presenting My Research Proposal:
The highlight of my trip was the opportunity to present my research proposal to three judges, with the chance to win a grant of USD12,500. One of the judges, Jose Quiroga, stood out as a native Spanish speaker, and I couldn't resist trying to charm him by conversing in Spanish. Mr. Quiroga also worked at my dream institution, Arizona State University (ASU), making the encounter even more exciting.
A Missed Grant but Gained Experience:
While I didn't secure the grant, the experience of presenting my proposal to an esteemed panel of judges was invaluable. It was an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded individuals.
A Divine Meeting:
The trip also led me to a wonderful encounter with an Indonesian friend named Daisy Wardani . She attended the symposium and provided me with unwavering support. Her presence, encouragement, and prayers were instrumental in calming my nerves before the presentation. Our conversations outside of Park Hyatt will remain etched in my memory.
Gratitude and Growth:
I am immensely thankful for this experience, made possible by the US-ASEAN STIC program. I extend my gratitude to all those involved, with a special mention to Tran Thao for her patience and assistance. Her support allowed me to explore the Industrial Professional Track, an ongoing learning journey post-symposium.
Joining the STIC Journey:
To those seeking new horizons and exciting opportunities, I highly recommend exploring the US-ASEAN STIC program. It's a gateway to learning, growth, and unforgettable experiences. If you're curious and eager to expand your knowledge, consider applying to enroll in this transformative initiative.
Conclusion:
My journey to Jakarta was more than just a trip; it was a leap into the world of innovation, collaboration, and personal growth. It reminded me that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that take you out of your comfort zone and into the realm of endless possibilities. Jakarta, the US-ASEAN STIC program, and the people I met along the way have left an indelible mark on my journey of exploration and self-discovery.