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Salah Satu Mahasiswa IPC Lakukan Pengabdian di Malaysia, Fokus Mengajar Anak-Anak Indonesia

KKN Internasional

Memiliki ambisi keliling ke berbagai negara, Nandita Faiza memilih bergabung International Program Communication (IPC) UII. Berbagai kesempatan terus dimanfaatkan, salah satunya program International Mobility dari FPSB.

Setelah mengikuti berbagai rangkaian seleksi, mahasiswa IPC Batch 2023 tersebut dinyatakan lolos dan melakoni pengabdian di Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia mulai 30 Januari hingga 28 Februari 2025.

“Salah satu alasan terbesar saya memilih Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi Program Internasional karena ingin memiliki kesempatan dan peluang besar untuk mengikuti international mobility, meskipun semua mahasiswa diberi kesempatan, tetapi mahasiswa program internasional biasanya akan mendapatkan kesempatan lebih besar,” jelasnya.

Pengabdian yang dilakukannya fokus dalam bidang pendidikan. Di Gombak, Nandita ditugaskan untuk mengajar anak-anak imigran dari Indonesia. Mulai mata pelajaran umum hingga keagamaan.

Kegiatan belajar mengajar dilakukan setiap pagi hingga sore, sementara setelah sholat Maghrib dan Isya dilanjutkan belajar Al-Qur’an. Menariknya International Mobility dari FPSB kali ini bisa dikonversi setara dengan Kuliah Kerja Nyata (KKN). Artinya, selain mengajar Nandita dan beberapa rekannya mesti melakukan beberapa program lain yang linier dengan latar belakang pendidikan masing-masing.

KKN Internasional

Kegiatan pengabdian KKN Internasional. Foto: Dok Pribadi

“Kami juga diberi kesempatan oleh pengelola sekolah untuk melaksanakan program kerja yang sudah kami rumuskan. Serunya, kami juga berkesempatan untuk explore Kuala Lumpur disetiap weekend atau hari libur yang kita miliki selama satu bulan berada di sana,” tambahnya.

Meski terlihat seru dan menyenangkan, nyatanya KKN di negeri orang memiliki berbagai tantangan. Nandita mengaku jika meski mengajar anak-anak Indonesia, kendala bahasa menjadi hal yang kerap dihadapi. Anak-anak tumbuh dan besar di Malaysia sehingga komunikasi dilakukan dengan bahasa Melayu.

“Meskipun kami mengajar anak-anak Indonesia, tetapi mereka besar dan tumbuh di Malaysia sehingga bahasa yang mereka gunakan sehari-hari merupakan bahasa melayu, tentunya kami juga harus dapat memahami apa yang mereka sampaikan,” ucap Nandita.

Kendala-kendala tersebut dianggapnya sebagai tantangan yang harus diselesaikan, berbekal skill komunikasi dan public speaking semua teratasi.

Banyak pelajaran berharga ia dapatkan, berbagai keterbatasan anak-anak imigran Indonesia di Malaysia membuka matanya untuk teguh dalam belajar.

“FPSB International Mobility 2025 program konversi KKN di Malaysia ini telah membuka banyak perspektif baru dan keteguhan belajar saya. Berdirinya sekolah belajar yang saya tempati ini merupakan hasil dari tekad warga Indonesia di Malaysia yang memperjuangkan hak ana-anak Indonesia untuk terus belajar menempuh pendidikan mereka yang berhasil memotivasi saya untuk terus berani melangkah dan belajar,” tandasnya.

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The Importance of Maintaining a Strong Company Reputation: Understanding Image, Identity, and Crisis Management

Brand

This article is a summary of the lecture material on IPC with the subject Introduction to Public Relations.


What comes to mind when you hear the name of your favorite brand or company? It could be a high-quality product, a catchy advertisement, or an impressive campaign. All of these are built on something essential—reputation. A company’s reputation is shaped by how well it maintains a positive relationship with the public, ensuring trust, stability, and long-term success. However, reputation doesn’t stand alone; it is built on two other key elements: image and identity. Together, these three components form the foundation of a well-known, successful brand.

One of the key factors that determine a company’s success is its reputation, which is built over time. From establishing its foundation to launching products and services, reputation plays a crucial role in attracting customers, investors, and public attention. It also enhances a company’s credibility and customer loyalty, making it stand out in a competitive market.

A great example is Wardah, a brand whose strong reputation has helped it gain consumer trust over competitors and made advertising new products more effective. Understanding the importance of reputation also highlights the risks of losing it. A damaged reputation can lead to two possible outcomes: either the company responds quickly through its PR team, managing the crisis and controlling media coverage, or it fails to recover, losing trust and credibility, which could ultimately lead to its downfall.

Understanding Image and Identity in Reputation

The other two key aspects of reputation are company image and company identity. Company image refers to how the public perceives a company based on what it presents to the world. This perception is influenced by factors such as media coverage, public relations efforts, and marketing strategies.

On the other hand, company identity is the foundation of a business—its core values, mission, and vision—which shape its decisions, branding, and long-term goals. The connection between these three elements is crucial: when a company’s image aligns with its identity, its reputation remains strong. Consistency across all three aspects ensures credibility and long-term success.

Rebuilding Reputation After a Crisis

The key step to saving a company from downfall is acknowledging mistakes and demonstrating a commitment to change. Reputation is built on trust and accountability, so taking responsibility and making the right improvements can help restore public confidence. If a company implements effective strategies and meaningful changes, rebuilding its reputation becomes easier. Additionally, engaging with customers and stakeholders is just as important as showing commitment.

A great example of this is Garuda Indonesia, the country’s national airline. After facing financial struggles and management scandals, the company focused on transparency, service improvements, and customer engagement to regain trust. By making significant operational changes and reinforcing its commitment to quality, Garuda Indonesia successfully improved its reputation over time.

A strong company reputation is essential for long-term success, as it builds trust, attracts customers, and ensures credibility in a competitive market. However, reputation is not built in isolation—it relies on the alignment of image and identity to create a consistent and reliable brand presence. When a crisis threatens a company’s reputation, a swift and transparent response can make the difference between recovery and failure. By acknowledging mistakes, implementing improvements, and staying true to their values, businesses can rebuild trust and even strengthen their reputation over time. Ultimately, maintaining a positive reputation requires continuous effort, ethical practices, and a commitment to delivering value to the public.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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The Transformative Power of Solo Travel: How It Enhances Communication and Personal Growth

Travel

Many people may feel apprehensive about traveling alone, but the benefits of solo travel are countless, making it truly worth considering.

Have you ever felt a deep urge to leave everything behind, pack a bag, and explore somewhere completely new? If so, you’re not alone. Traveling is one of the few things that almost everyone loves—it’s exciting, refreshing, and full of new experiences. But beyond the excitement, travel, especially solo travel, shapes us in ways we rarely consider. If we look at it through the lens of communication, we gain a broader perspective on how it influences both our personal growth and social interactions.

Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: How Solo Travel Improves Communication Skills

One of the most significant aspects of personal growth that solo travelers experience is the improvement of their communication skills. Traveling alone pushes them out of their comfort zones, requiring them to ask for directions, navigate language barriers, and engage more with locals. While these actions may seem simple, they play a crucial role in shaping and enhancing their interpersonal skills. Over time, solo travelers become more confident and resilient, which prepares them for future experiences and challenges.

Building Connections: How Solo Travel Fosters Openness and Cultural Respect

One of the greatest benefits of solo traveling is the opportunity to build connections and become more open to different cultures. Traveling alone encourages travelers to engage more with others, leading to meaningful interactions that often develop into deep connections. These experiences serve as turning points, showing how strong bonds can form with people from entirely different cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds. What may start as a simple conversation can evolve into a lasting friendship, enriching the traveler’s perspective. Through these interactions, solo travelers not only become more open-minded but also develop a deeper respect for cultural diversity, making their journey even more transformative.

Bringing the Journey Home: How Solo Travel Enhances Conversations and Relationships

Beyond personal growth and deep interactions, solo traveling allows individuals to collect meaningful experiences and valuable conversations that enrich their relationships with loved ones and their surroundings. When travelers return home, they bring back stories and new perspectives that make them more engaging storytellers, attentive listeners, and thoughtful conversationalists. These experiences not only shape their worldview but also deepen their connections with others, as they share the lessons and insights gained from their journey.

Solo travel is more than just an adventure; it is a journey of personal transformation. By stepping out of their comfort zones, solo travelers develop stronger communication skills, forge meaningful connections, and gain a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. The experiences they collect along the way shape not only their perspective but also their interactions with others, making them more open, confident, and engaged individuals. Whether it’s through conversations with strangers or sharing stories with loved ones back home, solo travel leaves a lasting impact that extends far beyond the trip itself.

 

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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The Impact of AI on Everyday Life

AI

Will AI eventually exceed its creator’s logic and reshape humanity’s future? In recent years, artificial intelligence has become an important part of daily life, influencing everything from morning routines to complex professional tasks.

As it continues to develop, AI enhances efficiency, transforms industries, and raises ethical questions about its societal roles. To fully understand Al’s impact, it requires us to explore and examine its presence in everyday life, its influence on professional fields, and the ethical dilemmas it presents, providing a comprehensive framework to assess both its promises and challenges.

AI is becoming a silent but essential force that affects every aspect of our lives and shapes the way we engage with the outside world. AI-powered devices like smart assistants, customized alarms, and specially tailored news feeds influence our daily routines from the time we wake up. While navigation systems optimize routes to save time and money, platforms such as Netflix and Spotify use complex algorithms to suggest entertainment based on our interests. These AI-powered technologies improve convenience and are prime examples of the effectiveness and diversity that were promised by AI, but as it dominates our daily lives, we are forced to think about how technology may affect human life. An emerging concern is AI-Induced Cognitive Atrophy (AICICA), which suggests that overreliance on AI-powered systems. It could lead to cognitive decline, particularly in skills such as problem-solving and decision-making. Just as problematic internet use (PIU) has been linked to reduced cognitive engagement, AICICA raises the possibility that excessive dependence on AI may weaken critical thinking abilities.

When AI automates tasks that require analysis, judgment, and creativity, individuals may become less inclined to engage deeply with information or think independently. (From tools to threats: a reflection on the impact of artificial intelligence chatbots on cognitive health, 2024)

Although it saves us from repetitive duties, will it keep running the risk of weakening critical skills like flexibility and decision-making? It would change if we could control AI’s potential while maintaining human creativity and autonomy that drive significant changes by comprehending and controlling our reliance on it.

AI is changing various sectors by doing routine operations and analyzing data within a short time with a high level of accuracy. AI-powered solutions are already helping doctors with patient diagnosis, predicting the outcome of a treatment, and some surgeries. The same way, AI is improving investment decisions in the financial sector by identifying fraud and offering analytical recommendations. Moreover, AI platforms are changing the education system by providing individual learning paths for every student and improving the teaching process. However, just like these improvements boost creativity and productivity, they come with a set of problems.

AI is raising more concerns about unemployment since its automation is taking over roles in customer service, manufacturing, and even creative industries. Despite these concerns, AI should not be seen as a complete replacement for human workers but rather as a tool to enhance human capabilities. As experts suggest, the key lies in upskilling existing employees to integrate AI effectively into the workforce rather than replacing them entirely. According to industry leaders, AI can work alongside humans to improve efficiency and innovation, provided there is a balance between AI’s automation and human emotional intelligence, something AI alone cannot replicate. (curry, 2023)

As AI develops, there are ethical issues that need to be discussed. At the top of the list is the privacy issue since AI systems gather and analyze users’ data. It is a concern for many users who are not always aware of how their information is being used or handled, which raises questions about their consent. Furthermore, existing AI algorithms contain biases that can result in unfair treatment of individuals and can lead to discriminatory outcomes in hiring, lending, and law enforcement. This is another pressing concern: accountability. When AI systems fail, as in an autonomous vehicle or in a financial prediction, what then? Who is responsible: the developer, the user, or the AI? These concerns can only be addressed by clear ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks. With proactive governance, we can ensure that AI development aligns with our societal values, fostering trust and fairness in its implications.

Artificial intelligence is undeniably transforming every aspect of our lives, from the way we manage daily tasks to its real-life applications in professional fields. However, its impact is not without challenges, particularly in the ethical realm. By embracing its benefits while addressing its risks, we can shape AI into a tool that enhances, rather than undermines, human progress. The future of AI depends on our ability to navigate its complexities responsibly, ensuring it serves humanity’s best interests while preserving the values that define us.

 

Reference:

curry, R. (2023, August 10). How A.I. can help create jobs for humans, not just automate them. Retrieved from Technology Executive Council: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/10/how-ai-can-help-create-jobs-for-humans-not-just-automate-them.html

From tools to threats: a reflection on the impact of artificial-intelligence chatbots on cognitive health. (2024, April 2). Retrieved from national lubrary of medicine : https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11020077/

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Tiga Kali Berturut-turut Mahasiswa IPC Jadi Lulusan Terbaik, IPK Nyaris Sempurna!

Tiga Kali Berturut-turut Mahasiswa IPC Jadi Lulusan Terbaik, IPK Nyaris Sempurna!

Tiga kali berturut-turut mahasiswa dari Ilmu Komunikasi UII khususnya international program (IPC) berhasil menjadi lulusan terbaik di tingkat fakultas (FPSB).

Kali ini giliran Gelegar Carnellian Talenta, S.I.Kom alumni angkatan 2020. Ia menyusul dua teman angkatannya yang lebih dulu lulus yakni Arsila Khairunnisa, S.I.Kom dan Fikri Haikal Ramadhan, S.I.Kom. Selengkapnya: https://communication.uii.ac.id/wisudawan-terbaik-hingga-predikat-summa-cumlaude-dari-prodi-ilmu-komunikasi-uii/

Pembekalan wisudawan FPSB pada 21 Januari 2024 menjadi momen terbaik bagi Gelegar. Ia dinyatakan sebagai lulusan terbaik dengan raihan IPK 3,94.

Menurutnya menjalani proses akademik di Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi UII memberikan banyak pengalaman menarik. Selain Ilmu Komunikasi yang aplikatif juga nilai-nilai Islam untuk pedoman hidup.

“Saya merasa sangat bersyukur dan bangga dapat menyelesaikan studi di jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII). Perjalanan akademik di UII telah menjadi pengalaman yang luar biasa, tidak hanya dalam membekali saya dengan ilmu komunikasi yang relevan dan aplikatif, tetapi juga dalam menanamkan nilai-nilai keislaman yang menjadi pedoman dalam kehidupan,” ujarnya.

Selama kurang lebih empat tahun berbagai petualangan telah dilaluinya. Sebagai mahasiswa IPC, berbagai program internasional telah diikutinya. Salah satunya adalah program exchange di Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) selama satu semester menjelang akhir studinya.

“Dengan fasilitas dan beberapa program yang telah di–provide oleh prodi, saya mendapatkan pengalaman yang sangat berharga dalam memperluas wawasan saya. Saya juga mendapatkan kesempatan untuk melakukan pergantian mahasiswa internasional di Universiti Utara Malaysia,” ungkap Gelegar.

Ia berharap dari pembelajaran yang interaktif, serta suasana akademik yang inklusif di Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi UII dapat menciptakan perubahan positif di masyarakat melalui peran para alumni

“Saya ingin mengucapkan terima kasih kepada seluruh dosen, staf, dan teman-teman yang telah memberikan dukungan dan inspirasi sepanjang perjalanan ini. Semoga ilmu yang kita peroleh menjadi bekal yang bermanfaat untuk membangun masa depan yang lebih baik. Saya bangga menjadi bagian dari keluarga besar Ilmu Komunikasi UII dan siap memberikan kontribusi terbaik di bidang yang saya tekuni,” tandasnya.

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How Storytelling Shapes Brand Identity and How It Gained Attention in Recent Years

Brand

Humans have long used storytelling as a basic means of communication and experience sharing. Through compelling storylines, brand storytelling has emerged as an effective advertising method for conveying a company’s message and values. Narrative humanizes brands, making them more memorable and relevant than traditional methods that only highlight facts and product attributes. Using storytelling to bridge the gap between a brand’s identity and the values of its target audience builds trust and empathy.

In fact, 90% of young consumers actually like businesses that provide interesting and genuine tales, according to studies (2017 Consumer Content, 2017). Storytelling has changed in the digital age thanks to apps like Instagram and TikTok, which enable marketers to establish emotional bonds with customers worldwide. This change highlights the increasing significance of narrative-driven marketing in creating powerful and lasting brand identities.

Storytelling effectively humanizes brands by giving them a personality and a soul. Instead of just focusing on features and benefits, brands can share their values, their mission, and the stories of the people behind them. For example, a coffee brand in Indonesia might tell the story of the farmers who grow their beans, highlighting their sustainable practices and the impact on the local community. This narrative not only showcases the brand’s ethical sourcing but also creates an emotional connection with local and international consumers who value transparency and social responsibility.

The Shift from Traditional Advertising to Narrative-Driven Marketing

Traditional advertising frequently used disruptive strategies, such as interrupting viewers with ads. Consumers of today, however, are becoming more aware and resistant to these disruptions. As a result, there is a trend toward narrative-driven marketing, in which companies use gripping narratives to educate and amuse consumers. Brands increasingly concentrate on producing content that appeals to their target audience rather than just marketing a product. Sharing client endorsements, behind-the-scenes looks at their corporate culture, or even making short films that explain a brand’s narrative might all be part of this.

A notable example of this narrative-driven approach is Gojek’s “Drivers’ Spooky Stories” campaign. In 2022, Gojek invited its drivers to share their most unpleasant experiences on the road, compiling the 12 most captivating tales into a podcast series. This initiative not only provided engaging content for listeners but also highlighted the unique experiences of Gojek’s drivers, fostering a deeper connection between the brand and its users.

By focusing on storytelling that resonates with their audience, Indonesian brands like Gojek are effectively moving beyond traditional advertising methods. They create content that educates, entertains, and builds meaningful relationships with consumers, exemplifying the shift toward narrative-driven marketing.

Differentiating a Brand in Competitive Markets

It’s critical for brands to differentiate themselves in the competitive market of today. Here are three effective techniques for distinctive storytelling:

  1. Relatable Characters

Create characters or personas that your audience can see themselves in. People love the stories that reflect their own experiences, struggles, and aspirations.

  1. Emotional Appeal

Showcase emotions such as joy, empathy, nostalgia, or inspiration. Emotional connections make stories memorable and strengthen the bond between the audience and the brand.

  1. Authenticity

Genuine stories resonate more powerfully. Share real experiences, testimonials, or behind-the-scenes moments to build trust and authenticity.

Brands may create unique and unforgettable narratives that have a long-lasting effect on their audience by combining these strategies.

Storytelling plays a vital role in shaping a brand’s identity in today’s competitive market. By humanizing brands, creating emotional connections, and differentiating them from competitors, effective storytelling can build strong brand loyalty and drive business success. As digital and social media continue to evolve, the importance of storytelling in branding will only continue to grow.

Reference:

2017 Consumer Content. (2017). stackla, 27.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in the Way We Communicate 

Emotional Intelligence

The ability to perceive, comprehend, and control one’s own emotions as well as to affect and influence those of others is known as emotional intelligence (EI). Daniel Goleman popularized the term emotional intelligence (EI), which was first used by psychologists Peter Salovey and John Mayer (team, 2024).

It includes abilities like empathy, self-awareness, and effective interpersonal communication. Emotional intelligence is essential in both personal and professional contexts since it improves relationships, encourages teamwork, and guarantees productive communication. Understanding emotional intelligence (EI) can result in significant gains in our interactions in the linked world of today, when communication is the main key to success and unity.

The Aspects of Emotional Intelligence and Their Effect on Communication

Emotional intelligence comprises five core aspects: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Each of these significantly impacts how we communicate.

Self-awareness enables individuals to understand their emotional triggers and responses, ensuring their communication is deliberate rather than reactive. For instance, a self-aware person in a heated argument might pause before responding, reducing conflict.

Self-regulation allows individuals to control impulses and maintain composure under stress, facilitating respectful and composed interactions.

Empathy is the cornerstone of understanding others’ emotions. It helps us listen actively and respond appropriately, creating an atmosphere of trust.

Social skills, such as teamwork and conflict resolution, are essential for navigating complex interpersonal dynamics.

By mastering these aspects, individuals can foster open and effective communication, avoiding misinterpretations and building stronger relationships.

The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Communication

Clear, sympathetic, and powerful communication requires emotional intelligence. It assists people with interpreting the emotions of others, controlling their own emotions, and adjusting their reactions according to the situation. This ensures that messages are successfully conveyed and encourages comprehension.

One common example is when a teacher provides feedback to students without criticizing or discouraging them; this is regarded as a productive and successful approach to dealing with the issue. By doing this, students would be inspired to put in more effort and view the criticism as an opportunity for growth rather than a deterrent. The example provided demonstrates how emotional intelligence improves communication and guards against miscommunication.

Emotional intelligence is undeniably central to effective communication. Its aspects—self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills—enable us to navigate the complexities of human interaction with clarity and sensitivity. Emotional awareness, in particular, prevents misunderstandings and fosters meaningful connections, making it valuable in both personal and professional contexts.

To enhance emotional intelligence, individuals can:

  1. Practice active listening, focusing on understanding rather than simply responding.
  2. Engage in self-reflection to recognize and address emotional triggers.
  3. Seek feedback to identify blind spots in interpersonal communication.
  4. Cultivate empathy by considering others’ perspectives and experiences.

By prioritizing emotional intelligence, we can transform the way we communicate, creating a foundation for stronger relationships, better teamwork, and a more compassionate world.

Reference:

team, N. e. (2024). Goleman’s Theory of Emotional Intelligence: A Comprehensive Exploration.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

 

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The Lessons I Learned in University During My First Semester

UII

Starting university felt like stepping into a new world filled with endless possibilities. My expectations were high—I imagined a life of freedom, excitement, and growth, unburdened by obstacles. I thought university would be my bridge to the outside world, where I could explore new horizons without limitations. As the semester unfolded, I realized that while those expectations had some truth, the reality was far more nuanced.

One of the most challenging aspects of my first semester was adapting to the drastic shift from high school to university. The transition wasn’t just academic; it required me to adjust to a completely new environment. This was particularly overwhelming as an international student. Navigating unfamiliar systems, connecting with new people, and finding my place in a diverse community were hurdles I had to overcome. Yet, these struggles taught me resilience and adaptability—skills I know will serve me well in the future.

On the flip side, this semester wasn’t all about challenges. A significant part of university life has been the personal growth I’ve experienced. Interacting with peers from different backgrounds and perspectives has allowed me to expand my thinking and develop a deeper understanding of myself. Every conversation, group project, and activity has contributed to my personal development, making this journey both exciting and enriching.

One of the highlights of this semester has been discovering a new perspective in my Communication Science classes. A standout lesson for me was realizing the importance of becoming the best version of myself—not just academically but holistically. I came to understand that securing a bright future isn’t about perfection but rather about consistent self-improvement. Additionally, I learned that ignorance isn’t a flaw; it’s an opportunity to broaden my vision. This shift in mindset has encouraged me to embrace curiosity and approach learning with humility.

One of the most memorable courses I took was Introduction to Public Relations. At first, it was challenging to understand PR strategies and models, but our lecturer made it easier with case studies and feedback. This taught me that I don’t have to master everything right away,I just need to keep improving. I also learned the importance of clear communication and its impact, which will be valuable for my future.

Reflecting on my first semester, I feel deeply grateful for the experiences I’ve had. Meeting incredible people, gaining knowledge, and navigating challenges have all contributed to my growth. Most importantly, this semester has gifted me a transformation—one that has given me confidence and clarity about the person I want to become.

The journey hasn’t been without its ups and downs, but every moment has been worth it. As I look forward to the semesters ahead, I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and embracing the opportunities that come my way. My first semester has taught me that university life is not just about academics but about discovering yourself and your place in the world.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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The Rise Of Aesthetic Photography: Why People Love It?

Finding beauty in every frame: The art of capturing inspiring moments.

Aesthetic photography, the art of capturing visually pleasing images, has roots stretching back to the early days of photography in the 19th century. Early photographers, inspired by classical art, aimed to create compositions that went beyond documentation, reflecting beauty, harmony, and emotion.

The Pictorialism movement in the late 1800s emphasized this artistic approach, blending photography with fine art principles. Over time, as cameras became more accessible, aesthetic photography evolved into a medium for self-expression, leading to its widespread popularity today.

Aesthetic photography allows individuals to express themselves and find beauty in everyday life. The process of creating an image includes selecting the right lighting, angle, and subject. Sometimes it can be both meditative and creative for photographers. Many people are drawn to aesthetic photography because it offers a way to tell stories visually.

A single image has the ability to evoke emotions, nostalgia, or provide a sense of escape. For some, it’s about crafting a curated representation of their lives that aligns with their aspirations or personal brand. Additionally, aesthetic photos can be a source of pride and confidence. Sharing a visually pleasing image often brings validation through likes, comments, and shares, enhancing a sense of accomplishment.

What Sets Aesthetic Photography Apart From Other Types?

Unlike other types of photography, such as documentary or journalistic photography, aesthetic photography prioritizes beauty and emotional resonance over factual accuracy. Its focus is on creating an experience rather than just capturing a moment.Aesthetic photography often employs artistic techniques such as color grading, minimalism, and symmetry to create images that feel harmonious and captivating.

The subjects can range from simple objects like a cup of coffee to breathtaking landscapes, but the emphasis is always on presentation.This genre’s uniqueness lies in its adaptability as it blurs the lines between photography, art, and design, making it accessible to anyone willing to explore their creative instincts.

Social Media Influence on Aesthetic Photography

Instagram plays a crucial role in shaping contemporary aesthetic photography. Its “like” system serves as a measurable indicator of aesthetic appeal, as researched by Thömmes and Hübner. Their study analyzed 15,073 images across various genres, including architecture, dance, and landscape, and found a strong correlation between “likes” and users’ aesthetic preferences.

This system not only reflects public opinion but also influences creators by rewarding specific visual styles and compositions. As Instagram’s algorithms prioritize engagement, photographers adapt their styles to align with trends that attract more attention, creating a feedback loop. This dynamic highlights Instagram’s significant impact on the perception and production of beauty in photography.

Aesthetic photography helps people find beauty in everyday life and express their creativity in unique ways. By turning simple moments into art, it inspires us to see the world from a fresh perspective.

References:

[1] K. T. a. R. Hübner, ” Why People Press “Like”: A New Measure for Aesthetic Appeal Derived from instgram data,” p. 18, 2020.
[2] H. E. a. N. R. Robert, Britannica, 18 november 2024 . [Online]. Available: https://www.britannica.com/technology/photography/Perfecting-the-medium-c-1900-c-1945.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Improving your English as an International Student

Improving your English as an International Student

In 2024, approximately 1.52 billion people worldwide speak English, highlighting its importance as a vital learning tool, especially for international students. English plays a significant role in communication, understanding academic material, and connecting with peers. However, Improving English can often be challenging and overwhelming at the beginning. To tackle these difficulties, students can adopt various strategies to enhance their English skills. This approach allows them to make substantial progress and effectively address their obstacles.

Immerse Yourself in the Language

One of the most effective ways for international students to improve their English is through immersion in the language. They should aim to surround themselves with English as much as possible by speaking the language throughout the day. Additionally, students should engage in conversations with classmates, friends, and lecturers. The key is to make English an integral part of their daily lives and to expose themselves to it as often as possible. Although it may take time to adjust to this change, consistent practice will lead to faster improvement in their language skills.

Use Academic and Online Resources

Students are encouraged to utilize the resources available to them. They will likely have access to workshops, academic lectures, and university clubs, all of which can help improve their writing, grammar, and speaking skills. Taking advantage of these tools can enhance their language proficiency and help them focus on challenging areas.

Practice Consistently and Track Your Progress

Consistency is essential when learning English. Set aside time every day for practice. You can write in a journal, record yourself speaking, or even have conversations with native speakers online. Additionally, there are online tools that can help you stay consistent and provide easy access to resources, such as Grammarly and Duolingo. It’s also important to track your progress. Celebrate small achievements, such as learning a new word or writing a clear sentence. Over time, you’ll notice how much you’ve improved.

How These Tips Helped Me as an International Student

Applying these strategies has significantly improved my English skills as an international student. To immerse myself in the language, I actively avoided holding conversations in my native language and instead engaged with more English speakers. This consistent effort allowed me to become comfortable speaking English daily while also building my vocabulary. For academic and online resources, I made use of the English books available in the library and regularly watched YouTube videos for shadowing practice, which enhanced my listening and speaking abilities. Lastly, I developed a routine of writing down my progress and taking weekly quizzes to assess my improvement. Even when I did not see immediate results, I reminded myself to stay positive and not become discouraged, knowing that consistent effort would eventually lead to progress.

Improving their English may require time and dedication from international students, but the benefits are well worth the effort. By immersing themselves in the language, utilizing helpful resources, and practicing regularly, they can make steady progress. Remember, every small step counts. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as they are an essential part of the learning process.

Reference:

International Center for Language Studies. (2024, August 20). Retrieved from https://www.icls.edu/blog/most-spoken-languages-in-the-world