Thursina International Islamic Boarding School (IIBS) successfully held an Alumni Talk entitled “Before You Choose: Things You Should Know Before Entering University” on Monday, September 7, 2026, at the Female Campus Library.
The forum was designed to give Grade 12 students a better understanding of what they need to consider before deciding to pursue their studies abroad.
The session featured Muhammad Zaky Salman, a Thursina alumnus who is currently studying Finance and Business Enterprise at Strathclyde Business School, University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom. The discussion was led by Thursina IIBS Manager of Alumni Relations & Development, Ustaz Robby Amrullah Q. M., M.Pd., Dip.Ed.
Rather than only highlighting the exciting side of being an international student, the session also discussed important realities that students may not always consider. Differences in education systems, learning cultures, academic demands, independence, and the ability to adapt were among the main topics discussed.
Zaky emphasized that the decision to study abroad should be based on good preparation, not simply on an interest in a particular university or country.
“Studying abroad offers many experiences and opportunities, but it also requires a high level of independence and adaptability. Before choosing a university or a country, we need to understand our own abilities and the journey we are going to take,” said Zaky.
His direct experience as a student in the UK gave the participants a clearer and more realistic perspective. The students not only learned about academic life but also gained insight into the social and personal challenges they may face after leaving the school environment.
Ustaz Robby explained that the Alumni Talk was designed to make alumni experiences a practical reference for students as they plan their future education.
“We want our students to build realistic expectations. They need to understand the education system, life as an international student, independence, adaptation, and the academic, administrative, financial, and personal preparations they need to make from the beginning,” explained Ustaz Robby.
According to him, good preparation before departure plays an important role in helping students adapt to life in their destination country. Therefore, choosing the right university should go hand in hand with understanding their own needs, abilities, and readiness.
This program reflects the inspiring value of RECODING, where alumni experiences become a valuable source of learning for the next generation. Inspiration is not only about successfully entering an overseas university, but also about having the courage to go through the process with awareness, responsibility, and careful preparation.
Through “Before You Choose,” Thursina continues to strengthen its support for students who plan to pursue higher education by providing insights from alumni who have experienced the journey themselves.
The message is simple but important: before you choose a university, know yourself; before you choose a country, know the journey. (izz)
