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IYEN Insight | Success Story

"Don't wait to be perfect to start, because life is only once—so make this life meaningful." These words have become the life principle of Kevin Aulia, an alumnus of International Youth Excursion Network (IYEN) Chapter 13 Singapore & Malaysia 2025, who has achieved an extraordinary milestone by being accepted into 10 prestigious universities worldwide while earning several highly competitive international scholarships.

In today's increasingly competitive global landscape, Kevin's achievement proves that Indonesian youth are capable of competing on the international stage. More than just academic excellence, his journey demonstrates that courage to seize opportunities, continuous self-development, and a commitment to creating positive impact are the true keys to achieving global dreams.

Securing Prestigious International Scholarships

Kevin successfully earned several renowned scholarships, including:

  • Russian Government Scholarship
  • Exoreach International Scholarship
  • International Student Scholarship – University College Dublin
  • MNCU Future Leader Scholarship

addition, he received admission offers from the following universities:

Russian University of People's Friendship (RUDN) – Bachelor of International Relations

Northumbria University – BA (Hons) International Relations and Politics

University of Regina – Bachelor of Arts in International Studies

University College Dublin – Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences

James Cook University Singapore – Bachelor of Arts (Majoring in Psychology Studies)

University of Waikato – Bachelor of Global Studies (Majoring in International Relations)

Adelaide University – Bachelor of International Relations

The University of Western Australia – Bachelor of International Relations & Bachelor of Arts

Deakin University – Bachelor of Arts

MNC University – Bachelor of Communication Science

"Success Doesn't Happen Overnight"

In an exclusive interview with IYEN Insight, Kevin shared that his accomplishments were the result of years of preparation rather than instant success.

"To be honest, my journey to international universities didn't happen overnight."

Since junior high school, Kevin has actively participated in competitions, student organizations, and youth initiatives to develop his communication skills, leadership abilities, and global perspective.

During senior high school, he became even more focused on building a portfolio aligned with his passion for International Relations and Diplomacy. He served as a speaker at international conferences, moderated cross-border forums, participated in volunteer programs, completed internships in government institutions and private companies, and engaged in initiatives supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Alongside these experiences, Kevin consistently maintained strong academic performance while improving his foreign language proficiency in English, Turkish, Russian, and Arabic.

According to Kevin, international universities are not only looking for students with outstanding grades.

"They are looking for students who have a compelling story, meaningful impact, and a clear vision for the future."

IYEN: The Beginning of a Global Journey

As an alumnus of IYEN Chapter 13 Singapore & Malaysia, Kevin believes the program played a significant role in preparing him for studying abroad.

"Very, very helpful."

Through IYEN, he had the opportunity to collaborate with participants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

The program strengthened his ability to adapt to multicultural environments, communicate effectively, and appreciate different viewpoints—qualities that are essential in international education.

"Since I had already experienced cross-cultural interactions through IYEN, I feel much more prepared to collaborate, discuss ideas, and build meaningful relationships with people from around the world."

No Shortcuts—Only Strategy and Consistency

Interestingly, Kevin never viewed the university application process as an overwhelming obstacle.

Instead, he believes success comes from having a clear strategy from the very beginning.

He continuously explored every positive opportunity available—whether competitions, organizations, volunteer work, conferences, internships, or youth exchange programs—to gain new experiences and strengthen his portfolio.

Kevin also carefully aligned every activity with his academic goals by choosing a major that matched his interests, understanding each university's admission criteria, and ensuring every experience contributed to his long-term vision.

"Getting into an international university isn't about being the smartest person. It's about making the most of every opportunity and following a well-planned path."

Skills Developed Through IYEN

When asked which skills from IYEN have benefited him the most, Kevin highlighted three:

  • Cross-Cultural Communication
  • Public Speaking
  • Teamwork

These competencies became essential assets throughout his university application journey.

Working on collaborative projects during IYEN helped him develop confidence in presenting ideas, collaborating within multicultural teams, managing time effectively, and demonstrating leadership.

According to Kevin, these qualities are just as valuable as academic achievements in the international higher education environment.

A Message to Indonesian Youth: Don't Wait Until You're Perfect

At the end of the interview, Kevin shared an inspiring message for young Indonesians.

"Don't wait to be perfect to start, because life is only once—so make this life meaningful."

He believes many students mistakenly think that studying abroad is only possible for extraordinary achievers or national champions.

However, what truly matters is consistency in personal growth and the courage to embrace every opportunity.

Kevin encourages young people to begin with simple yet meaningful steps:

  • Join student organizations.
  • Participate in volunteer activities.
  • Compete in academic or non-academic competitions.
  • Attend conferences and seminars.
  • Participate in youth exchange and international programs such as IYEN.
  • Continuously improve foreign language skills.
  • Stay informed about global issues.
  • Step outside your comfort zone.

"Every experience you gain today can become an important chapter in the story that shapes your future."

He also reminds young people not to compare their journeys with others.

"Focus on becoming the best version of yourself and keep growing every day."

"Dare to Take a Chance"

If Kevin had to choose one lesson that he continues to carry from IYEN, it would be:

"Dare to take a chance."

Before joining IYEN, Kevin believed international opportunities were reserved only for certain people.

The program completely changed that perspective.

Today, he firmly believes that global opportunities are available to anyone willing to take the first step, keep learning, and continue growing.

That courage eventually led him to apply for international conferences, become a speaker, participate in global programs, and ultimately gain admission to universities around the world.

A Heartfelt Thank You to the IYEN Family

Kevin also expressed his sincere gratitude to the entire IYEN Chapter 13 Singapore & Malaysia 2025 family.

He gave special appreciation to his teammates from Terra Vanguard—Kak Maudy, Kak Sarah, and Kak Fatih—for their collaboration, encouragement, and shared learning throughout the program. He also extended his gratitude to their mentor, Kak Syarifa, whose guidance, motivation, and continuous support greatly contributed to the team's journey.

Kevin emphasized that the awards he received—including Best Delegate, Best Speaker, and other team achievements—were never individual accomplishments.

Instead, they were the result of collaboration, mutual support, and a shared commitment to learning together.

"My experience with IYEN will always remain one of the most important foundations of my journey toward the international stage."

Closing

Kevin Aulia's story reminds us that extraordinary dreams begin with ordinary courage.

His achievements are not merely about receiving admission offers from ten universities or earning prestigious international scholarships. More importantly, they reflect the power of consistency, lifelong learning, courage to embrace opportunities, and the determination to create meaningful impact.

For every young Indonesian aspiring to study abroad or pursue global opportunities, Kevin's journey sends a powerful message:

No matter where you start today, keep learning, keep growing, and never be afraid to take the first step.

Because opportunities are not reserved for those who are the smartest—they belong to those who are courageous enough to begin.

— IYEN Insight Editorial Team