Product Design Study Program at Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) has established a strategic partnership with Homelegance, a renowned furniture company from the United States. This collaboration aims to provide outstanding students with opportunities to develop their skills and gain hands-on industry experience. Through this scholarship program, students will receive various benefits, including training, paid internships, mentorship, as well as financial and equipment support.

This partnership allows students to gain direct experience in the furniture industry. Dr. Devanny Gumulya, S.Sn., M.Sc., Head of the UPH Product Design Program, emphasized that this program serves as a strategic bridge between academia and industry.

“We want to ensure that students not only understand theory but are also prepared to face challenges in the professional world. Through training, paid internships, mentorship, and facility support for design projects and research, students gain hands-on experience relevant to industry needs. Additionally, they have the opportunity to participate in business trips to broaden their knowledge and professional network,” explained Dr. Devanny.

The scholarship program also offers various supporting facilities designed to enhance students’ skills. These include a monthly allowance, a laptop, hardware and software, and direct guidance from industry professionals. With this support, students not only receive financial assistance but also practical experience that strengthens their competitiveness in the job market.

Furthermore, Dr. Devanny explained that the scholarship selection process is rigorous to ensure that only students who are prepared and highly committed are chosen. Candidates must have completed at least five semesters, including students in the accelerated program. Additionally, they must receive a recommendation from the program coordinator, who assesses their academic achievements, maturity, attitude, and motivation. Academically, students are required to have a minimum grade of 85 (A-) in key courses such as Technical Drawing, Computer Modeling, and Sustainable Furniture Design. The program lasts for six months and can be extended based on student performance evaluations.

“We want to ensure that selected students are not only academically excellent but also mentally prepared and highly motivated. The recommendation from the program coordinator is a crucial factor because we are looking for individuals who are not only talented but also possess strong character in facing industry challenges,” explained Dr. Devanny.

Hutch Chao, Founder of Homelegance, stated that this collaboration is a form of support for the younger generation in the field of design.

“We want to help talented young people gain broader experience before fully entering the industry. This program is not just a scholarship but also a bridge that connects the academic world with the profession, ensuring that students are better prepared when entering the workforce or starting their own businesses in the future,” said Hutch.

Through this collaboration, UPH Product Design students gain broad access to develop their technical skills and industry understanding. With a combination of academic learning and professional experience, they are prepared to face the challenges of the working world with greater confidence and competitiveness.

This program is expected to produce young designers who are not only competent in their field but also possess strong character and a high work ethic to make meaningful contributions to the industry and society. This collaboration is tangible proof of UPH’s commitment to shaping graduates who are God-fearing, excellent, and impactful for the nation.