School becomes their second home: A parent's story of choosing Monash University, Indonesia
Darlene Jovela (middle) with her parents at the grand finale of the NextGen Digital Impact Competition.
BSD City, Tangerang – For every parent, choosing a university is about more than rankings, facilities, or a degree. It is about finding a place where their child can grow, feel supported, and confidently take the next step into adulthood.
When Eddy Rachmat and his family were searching for the right university for their daughter, Darlene Jovela, they were looking for more than academic excellence. They wanted a university that would challenge her intellectually while also providing an environment where she would feel respected, welcomed, and at home.
Today, as Jovela pursues her Bachelor of Information Technology at Monash University, Indonesia, Eddy believes they made the right choice.
"As parents, we always want to give our children the best opportunities," Eddy shares. "For us, Monash stood out because of its academic reputation. It is one of the world's top universities, and knowing that students in Indonesia follow the same curriculum and academic standards as Monash Australia gave us confidence that Jovela would receive a truly world-class education."
For Eddy, that global quality was an important consideration—but it wasn't the only one.
"Academic excellence is important, but it isn't everything," he says. "Family is a child's first home, and school becomes their second home. As parents, we want to know that our child will spend those years in a place where they feel safe, comfortable, and accepted."
Eddy Rachmat, father of Jovela, shares his journey of finding the best university for his daughter
Since joining Monash University, Indonesia, Eddy has seen those hopes reflected in Jovela’s experience.
"What impressed me most was the culture. The staff, lecturers, and students are genuinely welcoming. They respect one another, and they make everyone feel included, regardless of their background."
He believes that this culture of inclusivity plays a significant role in a student's success.
"When students know they belong, they're more confident to ask questions, explore new ideas, and become the best version of themselves. That kind of environment is just as important as what they learn in the classroom."
For Eddy, seeing his daughter grow in confidence has reaffirmed that choosing a university is not simply about preparing for a career—it is about finding a community that nurtures both personal and academic growth.
"Knowing that Jovela is learning in a place where people genuinely care about one another gives us peace of mind. As parents, that's something you can't put a price on."
At Monash University, Indonesia, students are encouraged to achieve academic excellence while becoming part of a diverse, respectful, and inclusive community. For families like Eddy's, that combination of world-class education and a strong sense of belonging is exactly what makes Monash feel like a second home.