MBKM Internship Program is a very useful facility for students to explore their potential in applying and enhancing their knowledge of learning in lectures to a professional work environment. Through MBKM internships, English Literature students have the opportunity to get involved directly, including in the field of tourism.

Government Tourist Information Centre (GTIC)

Muthia Safira and Zahratina Laila Fitri, English Literature students class of 2021, participated in an internship program at GTIC (Government Tourist Information Centre) from 17 September to 17 November 2024. GTIC is an institution under the Yogyakarta Government Tourism Office that plays an important role in providing information, especially related to tourist destinations, to domestic and international tourists.

During the internship, Muthia and Zahra were involved in various important activities, such as helping to provide information related to tourism and local culture. The delivery of information must be done in a pleasant and professional manner either in Indonesian, English, or other foreign languages. Other tasks included promoting agencies that collaborate with GTIC/Visiting Jogja, providing information related to local transportation, along with routes and operating times, and recording GTIC visitors.

The internship experience enhanced practical and theoretical English language skills in the context of tourism, developed professional skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management, and deepened knowledge of Yogyakarta's tourist destinations and local culture.

Viavia Tour and Travel Yogyakarta

Farhan Baehaqi, one of the 2021 English Literature students, participated in the MBKM Internship program at Viavia Tour and Travel Yogyakarta from September 19 to November 19, 2024. Viavia Tour and Travel is an agency engaged in tourism services that upholds the concept of sustainable development goals, and pays attention to nature and environment while organising tours.

During his internship, Farhan was involved in various activities that support his skill development. He started as a housekeeper at Viavia guest house for 3 days as an orientation period that must be done by interns and new employees before later joining Viavia Tour and Travel. After that, Farhan got the opportunity to become an escort for a Village Tour by Bike. He guided guests including foreign tourists around exploring the village using bicycles and introducing local culture to the guests. In addition, Farhan also became a cooking class assistant guiding the participants by giving clear instructions, answering questions, and ensuring all participants felt comfortable and actively involved in the cooking class and introducing local culinary culture. Farhan also contributed in creating an English Learning Module for Kleco Tourism Village regarding materials relevant to the business of tourism such as vocabulary related, greeting phrases, and phrases used in hospitality and customer services followed by teaching English to local communities to improve their communication skills. Farhan also managed the front office which is crucial in making a good first impression on guests, giving him the responsibility of maintaining the company’s Professional Reputation. Farhan learned how to manage communication, and ensure the general operation of the office ran smoothly.

The experiences Farhan had during his internship at Viavia Tour and Travel gave him practical insights into tourism and culture in Indonesia within the scope of local and international communities along with language development which is essential for professional practice in the tourism sector. (AS/PR)