Welcome, guys! Ever wondered what it's like navigating the ITS (Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember) campus if you're more comfortable speaking English? Well, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about ITS, from its academic departments and research centers to student life and essential services, all in English. So, let’s dive in and make your ITS experience smoother and more accessible.

A Brief Overview of ITS

First things first, let's get acquainted with ITS. Founded on November 10, 1960, in Surabaya, Indonesia, ITS is renowned for its focus on science, technology, and engineering. But don't let the technical focus intimidate you! ITS is a vibrant community with a diverse student body and a welcoming atmosphere. The campus is massive, sprawling over hundreds of hectares, and it's constantly evolving with new buildings and facilities. Knowing your way around and understanding the key departments is crucial for a successful academic journey here.

ITS's Mission and Vision: The institution is dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation to contribute to national and global development. ITS aims to be a world-class university that excels in science, technology, and arts, producing graduates who are not only competent but also have a strong sense of ethics and social responsibility. This means you'll find a strong emphasis on research, community engagement, and sustainable development initiatives throughout the campus.

Key Academic Areas: ITS is organized into several faculties and departments, each specializing in different areas of study. These include the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Science, Faculty of Marine Technology, Faculty of Industrial Technology, Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, Faculty of Business and Management, and Faculty of Creative Design and Digital Business. Within these faculties, you'll find a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, covering fields like civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, physics, chemistry, naval architecture, and many more. Each department has its own unique culture and focus, so it's worth exploring the different options to find the best fit for your interests and career goals.

The Internationalization of ITS: In recent years, ITS has been making significant strides in internationalization. This includes increasing the number of international students, faculty, and research collaborations. The university actively encourages international students to apply and provides various support services to help them adjust to life in Surabaya. Many courses are offered in English, and there are dedicated offices to assist with visa applications, accommodation, and other practical matters. ITS also participates in numerous exchange programs with universities around the world, giving students the opportunity to study abroad and gain international experience.

Navigating the Campus: Getting around ITS can be a bit daunting at first, given its size. However, the university has implemented various measures to make it easier to navigate. There are campus maps available online and at various locations around the campus. The university also provides a shuttle bus service that connects different parts of the campus. Additionally, many students use bicycles or motorcycles to get around. Familiarizing yourself with the main buildings and landmarks is essential. Some key locations include the Rectorate Building (the main administrative building), the Central Library, the Student Center, and the various faculty buildings. Don't hesitate to ask for directions if you get lost – the ITS community is generally very helpful and welcoming.

Academic Departments and Programs in English

Now, let's talk about academics. Many departments at ITS offer programs and courses in English, especially at the postgraduate level. This is a big plus for international students or anyone more comfortable with English. Here’s a rundown of some key departments and programs:

Faculty of Engineering

The Faculty of Engineering is one of the largest and most diverse faculties at ITS. It encompasses a wide range of engineering disciplines, from civil and mechanical engineering to chemical and environmental engineering. Many of the postgraduate programs in this faculty are offered in English, attracting students from around the world. The faculty is known for its cutting-edge research and its strong ties to industry. Students have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain practical experience through internships and collaborations with companies.

Civil Engineering: This department focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, such as buildings, bridges, roads, and water systems. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, and environmental engineering. Students learn to use advanced software and technologies to solve complex engineering problems. The department has a strong emphasis on sustainability and resilience, preparing students to address the challenges of climate change and urbanization.

Mechanical Engineering: This department deals with the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems and components. The curriculum covers topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, materials science, and control systems. Students learn to use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software to design and manufacture mechanical parts. The department has a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to develop new technologies and start their own businesses.

Electrical Engineering: This department focuses on the generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electrical energy. The curriculum covers topics such as circuit theory, electromagnetics, power systems, control systems, and signal processing. Students learn to design and build electrical circuits, power systems, and control systems. The department has a strong emphasis on renewable energy and smart grids, preparing students to address the challenges of energy sustainability.

Chemical Engineering: This department deals with the design, operation, and optimization of chemical processes. The curriculum covers topics such as chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, mass transfer, and reactor design. Students learn to use computer-aided process design (CAPD) software to design and simulate chemical processes. The department has a strong emphasis on green chemistry and sustainable chemical engineering, preparing students to develop environmentally friendly chemical processes.

Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science at ITS is dedicated to advancing knowledge in the fundamental sciences and applying it to solve real-world problems. The faculty offers programs in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and statistics. Many of the research projects in this faculty are conducted in English, and there are opportunities for international students to participate. The faculty is committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for careers in research, industry, and education.

Physics: This department explores the fundamental laws of nature and applies them to understand the physical world. The curriculum covers topics such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and statistical mechanics. Students learn to conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop theoretical models. The department has a strong emphasis on advanced materials and nanotechnology, preparing students for careers in materials science and engineering.

Chemistry: This department focuses on the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter. The curriculum covers topics such as organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. Students learn to synthesize new compounds, analyze chemical samples, and develop new chemical processes. The department has a strong emphasis on green chemistry and sustainable chemistry, preparing students to develop environmentally friendly chemical products and processes.

Mathematics: This department deals with the abstract structures and patterns that underlie the physical world. The curriculum covers topics such as calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and probability. Students learn to solve mathematical problems, develop mathematical models, and analyze data. The department has a strong emphasis on applied mathematics and computational mathematics, preparing students for careers in finance, engineering, and computer science.

Faculty of Marine Technology

Given Surabaya's maritime history, the Faculty of Marine Technology is a significant part of ITS. This faculty focuses on naval architecture, marine engineering, and ocean engineering. These programs often have international collaborations and offer courses in English, making it accessible for a global audience. The faculty is actively involved in research related to maritime transportation, offshore structures, and marine renewable energy.

Naval Architecture: This department deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of ships and other marine vessels. The curriculum covers topics such as hydrostatics, hydrodynamics, structural mechanics, and ship design. Students learn to use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software to design and analyze ship structures. The department has a strong emphasis on safety and environmental protection, preparing students to design ships that are both safe and sustainable.

Marine Engineering: This department focuses on the design, operation, and maintenance of marine propulsion systems and other marine machinery. The curriculum covers topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and control systems. Students learn to operate and maintain marine engines, generators, and other equipment. The department has a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and emission reduction, preparing students to develop environmentally friendly marine propulsion systems.

Student Life and Essential Services

Beyond academics, ITS offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities. The university provides a range of essential services to support students, including accommodation, healthcare, counseling, and career services. These services are designed to help students succeed academically, personally, and professionally.

Accommodation

ITS provides on-campus accommodation for students, including dormitories and apartments. These facilities are equipped with basic amenities such as beds, desks, chairs, and wardrobes. The university also offers off-campus housing options, such as apartments and boarding houses. These options may be more affordable or offer more privacy, but they may also require a longer commute to campus. It is important to research and compare different housing options before making a decision.

Healthcare

ITS has a health center on campus that provides basic medical services to students. The health center is staffed by doctors and nurses who can provide consultations, treatment, and referrals to specialists. The university also has a partnership with local hospitals, ensuring that students have access to comprehensive medical care. It is important for international students to have health insurance that covers medical expenses in Indonesia.

Counseling

ITS offers counseling services to students who are experiencing personal or academic difficulties. The counseling center is staffed by licensed counselors who can provide individual and group counseling. The counseling center also offers workshops and seminars on topics such as stress management, time management, and study skills. These services are designed to help students cope with the challenges of university life and achieve their full potential.

Career Services

ITS has a career center that provides career counseling and job placement assistance to students. The career center offers workshops and seminars on topics such as resume writing, interviewing skills, and job search strategies. The career center also organizes job fairs and company visits, providing students with opportunities to network with potential employers. These services are designed to help students find internships and jobs after graduation.

Tips for International Students

If you're an international student considering ITS, here are a few tips to make your transition smoother:

• Learn Basic Indonesian: While many courses are in English, knowing basic Indonesian will help you navigate daily life and connect with the local community.
• Get Involved: Join student organizations, attend events, and participate in cultural activities to make friends and immerse yourself in the ITS community.
• Utilize Support Services: Don’t hesitate to reach out to the international student office for assistance with visa issues, accommodation, and other practical matters.
• Explore Surabaya: Take the time to explore the city of Surabaya. It's a vibrant and historical city with plenty to offer, from delicious food to cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Navigating ITS in English is definitely manageable, thanks to the university's increasing focus on internationalization and the availability of programs and services in English. By understanding the academic departments, utilizing the available resources, and embracing the vibrant student life, you can have a fulfilling and successful experience at ITS. So, welcome to ITS, guys! We hope this guide helps you make the most of your time here. Good luck, and see you on campus!