Valuable Work Experience: Personal Testimony as a Japanese Literature Student in the MBKM Program

The Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program has truly been a golden opportunity for me to broaden my horizons and hone my skills through real-world work experiences. As a 7th-semester Japanese Literature student, I, Kristianto Dwi Efanda, gained an unforgettable experience through the Certified Independent Study Internship (MSIB) at Samabe Bali Suite and Villa, a luxurious resort that is often a favorite among international tourists.

During my internship, I learned many valuable lessons. One of the most important was understanding how to professionally handle the check-in and check-out processes for guests. I also became familiar with the VSP system, which is used to manage guest reservations in a structured manner. Additionally, I had the chance to assist in organizing various guest activities, ranging from romantic dinner reservations to transportation arrangements. Another task I thoroughly enjoyed was answering phone calls with a high standard of service. At first, answering calls felt challenging because I had to speak clearly and promptly, but over time, I managed to master this skill.

As a Japanese Literature student, this opportunity also allowed me to practice my Japanese language skills, which I had studied throughout my academic journey. Moreover, I was able to improve and enhance my English languag eproficiency. In my daily activities, I had to communicate with guests from various countries, including Japan, Australia, and European nations. Speaking with guests from diverse cultural backgrounds provided me with experiences that were not only invaluable but also challenging.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was ensuring that all guests felt satisfied with the services we provided. Each guest had different needs and expectations, which required me to think quickly, be flexible, and remain professional at all times. From these challenges, I learned how to manage pressure and resolve issues with effective approaches.

Beyond the practical work experience, the MSIB program also provided me with certification as evidence that I had not only theoretical knowledge but also relevant hands-on experience. I believe this certification will be a crucial advantage in building my career in the future, especially in the field of international tourism.

I am extremely grateful to both my university and Samabe Bali Suite and Villa for this extraordinary opportunity. This program has truly helped me prepare to face the real working world. With all the benefits I have gained, I highly recommend other students to participate in the MBKM program.

For me, the MBKM program is not just about studying outside the campus; it is about building a bridge to the future. This experience has shaped me into a more confident, skilled, and prepared individual ready to take on the challenges of the global workforce.