Unraveling the Benefits of International Exchange Program: Perspectives of Students

This phenomenological study aimed to explore the impact and benefits of an international student exchange program between a university in Malaysia and Thai-land. The study extended over a duration of two weeks, involving a total of 18 participants who were registered full-time students at the university. The participants selected were from various courses and majors as to ensure a diverse representation. Individual surveys, interviews, testimonial video clips, and essays were employed as part of the data collection methods. These varied methodologies encouraged sharing of experiences, reflections, and recommendations for enhancing the program outcomes. The findings of this study discovered that the participants benefited in the program as they experienced a unique opportunity to widen their intercultural understanding and learned to appreciate other cultures in our inter-connected world. Moreover, the program also facilitated the realization of inter-personal relationships among participants and allowed them to engage in new experiences. Notably, the participants offered a wide range of valuable recommendations to improve future implementations of the program. Their suggestions focused on refining the activity schedule, enhancing pre-trip preparation and bonding activities, and further optimizing educational outcomes to maximize the bene-fits for all participants.