On January 21, 2025, IBM (International Business Management) students of Institut Asia Malang completed their final semester exams for the CRPD (Career Readiness & Professional Development) course. Interestingly, in this exam, they were not only faced with written questions but also received a new challenge to work on using the FGD (Focus Group Discussion) method. This exam is also a simulation of the world of work designed to test their readiness to face tough competition.

Sr. Karolus Danar Kurniawan, M.Ikom, as the lecturer, realizes that the world of work is currently very dynamic and competitive. He wants to prepare his students to become the best candidates in their dream companies. He emphasizes that the competition is very tight, with only one in thousands of applicants possibly getting the desired position.

This final exam imitates a real job interview, with professional standards from Trent Global College, Singapore. Every detail is considered, from appearance to communication skills. Students are required to dress professionally, wear work shoes, and bring a CV according to the specified format. Appearance and completeness of documents are part of the assessment.

Interestingly, this FGD’s topic was Airbnb, an online booking and accommodation platform that has gone global. This topic was chosen because of its relevance to the dynamic world of international business and its vast potential to be studied from various aspects. Airbnb was chosen as a case study in this CRPD because of its relevance to the world of international business. This platform has changed the way people travel and search for accommodation and has had a significant impact on the tourism industry and local economy.

During the FGD, which lasted several hours, students were divided into several groups and assisted by a moderator. The students discussed various aspects of Airbnb, from the business model, marketing strategy, and socio-economic impact to the challenges and opportunities faced. Through this FGD method, students are expected to be able to analyze and solve problems and improve their collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills. They also learn to exchange ideas, argue constructively, and achieve a comprehensive understanding of the topics discussed.

This final exam was made even more special by the presence of panelists who were professionals in their fields, namely Ms. Dian Widyahapsari, S.Psi. (Chief Operation Officer BRMA, HR activist, and counselor from the University of Indonesia), and Sr. Karolus Danar Kurniawan (Founder & CEO Carabicara, CMO of Jagoan Indonesia, Coordinator in Chief IBM Asia Malang).

The results of the FGD were also analyzed using AI technology by professionals such as Mr. Amrullah Azmy (Organizational Psychologist | CEO at Terampil | Market Advisor and Consultant at Entomo.co), Mr. Mazda Ariefriendo (Creative Working Psychologist | Kooyla | Most Forward Thinking Innovator – Econovation 2021 (ECONUSA & TEMPO.CO) | Best Team Project DigMar MySkill 2022), and Irzalisa Irsjafri, S.M., M.Sc. (Deputy General Manager of Marketing PT Alternative Media Group Jakarta).

This final exam is not just a formality but also a valuable experience that equips IBM Institut Asia students with the skills and confidence to face the world of work. They learn about the importance of preparation, professionalism, and adaptability.