Program at Good News From Indonesia (GNFI)

My name is Mitha Wulandari, a seventh-semester student majoring in Japanese Literature. I never imagined pursuing a field far from my major, like Data Analyst. However, after thinking about ways to develop soft skills, I decided to join the Certified Independent Study program in 2024. At first, I didn't expect much, as opportunities for Japanese Literature students in this program were limited. But I got lucky and was accepted into the program at Good News From Indonesia (GNFI) as a participant in Applied Data Analyst and Visualization for Digital Journalism, competing with thousands of other applicants from different backgrounds.


In the beginning, it was quite challenging because I didn't have an IT background. However, the mentors at GNFI were very professional and communicative, which made participants without technical knowledge feel comfortable and made the learning process easier. The supportive learning environment helped me develop and learn at my own pace. During the program, there was also an opportunity to attend an Embassy Visit in Jakarta, although I did not get the chance to join that event.


The program not only taught Data Analysis but also provided knowledge about journalism. We learned how to collect, process, and present data effectively. One of the most memorable experiences was when we were asked to distribute a questionnaire and turn the results into an article. This was my first time writing and publishing an article in English on a website with an audience across Southeast Asia (https://seasia.co). Although I felt insecure at first because I was still learning English, this experience gave me confidence that skills improve with practice.


Apart from the technical learning, the program also offered other benefits. One of the highlights was the Career Mapping test facilitated by GNFI. It gave us valuable insight into potential career paths and helped us understand the skills needed for future jobs. This was very helpful in planning career goals and gave a clearer picture of what to expect in the professional world.


Overall, I highly recommend the Certified Independent Study program at GNFI to anyone looking to learn something new and gain valuable experiences. The program not only opens up opportunities for growth but also provides a supportive and enriching environment. For anyone interested in developing new skills and discovering career paths, this program is a great choice.