Responses of New Students from Outside Java to Cultural Adaptation and Habits in Yogyakarta: A Case Study of New Students at UNRIYO

Abstract

This study aims to determine and understand the responses of UNRIYO’s new students, class of 2024, from outside Java to cultural adaptation and habits in Yogyakarta. The combination of students from various cultural backgrounds in one place is not a new phenomenon in Indonesia. Overseas students often experience difficulties adapting to a new place, such as learning difficulties, sleep disturbances, homesickness, and decreased appetite, which can affect their social life. This study used a qualitative approach with direct interviews as the data collection instrument. The research population was students of UNRIYO class of 2024, with a sample of 5 students from outside Java. The results showed that the majority of respondents experienced significant challenges in cultural adaptation in Yogyakarta. The main challenges include differences in habits and social norms, difficulties in understanding and using the Javanese language. Some students experienced culture shock, feeling lonely, depressed, inferior, and difficulty interacting socially at the beginning of the lecture period. Nevertheless, students showed efforts to adapt, but this adaptation has not fully created a deep understanding of local culture and complete social integration. This phenomenon is closely related to the role of the younger generation in the context of social mobility. As part of the young age group, students are in an important transitional phase where they pursue better opportunities through higher education. The move from their home region to Java, especially Yogyakarta, is not only a geographical move, but also a form of aspirational mobility, namely to improve social status. However, the success of this mobility is largely determined by the ability to adapt culturally. Without effective adaptation, students may experience barriers in accessing academic and social opportunities. Therefore, cultural adaptation among the younger generation is not only a personal challenge, but also a structural factor that affects their success in achieving vertical social mobility in Indonesia's pluralistic society.