Meigitaria Sanita

How Goal Setting and Time Management Can Transform Students Success

Time management
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Graduating from school to university presents both excitement and challenges. School life offers structured schedules, guidance from parents and teachers, while university life offers freedom, independence, and responsibility, requiring students to learn crucial skills.

During their first year, students should develop time management and goal-setting skills to balance personal and academic lives, create direction, and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

First-year students usually struggle with the new demands of university life. It is challenging for them to manage their time effectively between classes, study, do extracurriculars, and manage their personal lives; moreover, these students who still have not developed any kind of skills usually spend their time on unimportant tasks and then end up stressing about the delayed ones. To navigate these obstacles and have a smoother university life, students should start working on their fundamental soft skills and focus more on the two main skills.

The importance of time management:

A big workload and no clear structure make managing time essential, especially during the first year. “Time management is the process of planning, organizing, and prioritizing tasks and activities to make the best use of your time. It involves setting goals, creating schedules, and making conscious choices about how to allocate your time to various tasks and responsibilities”. Students who use their time wisely will be able to finish tasks without hurrying at the last minute and keep up with their class while also making time for hobbies, friends, and rest, leading to a balanced university life.

Time-blocking is one of the effective techniques for time management; it involves focused work periods followed by breaks. For example, a student may set aside two hours each day to study and take brief breaks to unwind. This method helps keep focus and prevents tiredness. As a first-year student, this method was a turning point for me. It effectively helped me to set my priorities right and have enough time to finish my list without stressing.

Why Goal Setting is Essential:

Goal setting is a skill that involves identifying a specific target or outcome, breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks, and setting a timeline. It also plays a significant role as an aspect of time management and as a fundamental soft skill. It increases motivation and

Based on the workshop “Goal Setting & Time Management” delivered by Miss Wanadya Ayu Krishna Dewi on October 28, I learned about the SMART method. This approach to setting goals involves making sure that each goal is:

  1. Specific: Clearly defining what you want to achieve.
  2. Measurable: Ensuring there are criteria to track progress and completion.
  3. Achievable: Setting realistic goals within your reach.
  4. Relevant: Aligning goals with your broader objectives and values.
  5. Time-bound: Having a clear deadline or timeframe for each goal.

This workshop provided me with practical tools for goal setting and time management, which I can apply in my personal and professional life.

University is a place where students can turn their challenges into opportunities, but this transformation occurs when they are dedicated to improving their experience. They should view it as a chance for personal growth and to build a successful future for themselves.

Meigitaria Sanita

How to get a Scholarship in Abroad: My experience with FGLS in Indonesia

How to get a scholarship in Abroad: My experience with FGLS in Indonesia
Reading Time: 2 minutes

I had that dreamed of studying abroad as a way to achieve my goals of being independent, seeing the world, and experiencing different cultures for a long time. The thought thrilled me, but I realized that securing a scholarship was the only way to make it happen. My journey, nevertheless, was more difficult than I had thought. I imagined that if I worked hard to look for and apply for scholarships, no matter how modest, I would undoubtedly be awarded one. However, reality was very different.

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It provide access to a high-quality education, and it also broadens your vision, offers new perspectives, and gain personal growth. It exposes you to experiences and challenges that you wouldn’t experience  in your home country, making it truly unique.

I started looking for scholarships while I was still in school, but I only began applying during my gap year. I applied to more than thirteen scholarships, got accepted for only one, and never heard back from most of the others. I spent days researching trustworthy scholarships, dealing with complicated application requirements, and filling out long forms. These little disappointments made me feel like applying for more scholarships was a waste of time. Looking back now, I see that my lack of understanding about the scholarship process made it more difficult than it had to be.

I was so thrilled and excited when I got the acceptance email from Universitas Islam Indonesia. It felt unbelievable after the hard work and frustration. I made my sister read it out loud to make sure I’m not dreaming. The happiness I felt at that moment was worth every effort and the time taken to get there.

If you want to make your application process  goes smoother, here are a few tips :

  1. Identify scholarships that goes with your interests and eligibility.
  2. Start your applications early
  3. Prepare thoroughly for interviews and application process.
  4. Don’t hesitate to look out for guidance if you feel unsure.

Remember to give your best effort in every step of the application process.

I’d like to share some information about the scholarship that I received. It is called the Future Global Leaders Scholarship from Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII). It offers a wide range of International Program (IP), and opens applications once a year. Students who are accepted are required to take a one-month Bahasa Indonesia (BIPA) class before the academic year begins. Be sure to check the link below for more details on this opportunity.

It is, therefore, without doubt that getting a scholarship to study abroad is always a hard process but the outcome, the personal and academic gains all make it worthwhile. Do not let challenges deter you, instead let the challenges be the very reason you push forward to achieve your goals.

More information:

https://pmb.uii.ac.id/international/scholarships/

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita

A Unique Perspective: Attending INCOMS as an International Student

A Unique Perspective: Attending INCOMS as an international student
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Going to study abroad forces students to adapt quickly. Starting from language differences to cultures that we never knew before. Thrya from Yemen tells us about her experience in a very lively welcome ceremony. She felt different, but she found a new perspective.

 

When I signed up for INCOMS 2024, an event hosted by Universitas Islam Indonesia and the Communications Department. Its focus was on giving an “Introduction to Communications” and as someone studying the field, I was excited to dive in. There was something that made me hesitate whether to participate or not being the only international student there.

Later on, this made my experience both thrilling and a bit overwhelming. The theme, “A Piece of Tone!” immediately caught my attention. It felt like a call to explore the many layers of communication in today’s world. From the warm welcome of the local students to the insightful sessions, INCOMS was much more than just an event, it was a chance to see Communications in action across cultures and perspectives.

On the first day, we reached the villa. Then we started with an alumni talk show, he discussed and shared his experience and advice with the freshmen students. The day continued with introduction to important organizations like HIMAKOM and Ikonisia TV, and then it was followed by incredible films made by students that showcased real-life stories. The day ended with lively, differently, and culturally performances highlighting student talents.

On the second day, participants started with Fajr prayer, followed by morning group workouts. Then the jamaah played interactive and fun games. Lastly, the event wrapped up with awards, a group photo, and a heartfelt closing ceremony.

What stood out for me the most at the INCOMS was the Wonderland Indonesia performance. It was such a breathtaking and rich performance. The music was a mesmerizing blend of modern and traditional sounds, featuring instruments like dumps, classes, and cups, which add a rhythmic complexity. The voices of the performers resonated with the song’s emotions perfectly and carried the energy of the whole performance. They wear their traditional clothes, which add a special touch and a beautiful representation of cultural diversity.

Another astonishing aspect is the energy of the performers and the dynamic group singing in harmony. It was impossible not to feel their passion, pride, and love for their country. As the show ended, I found myself completely impressed by the music, costumes, and energy of the performers. It also gives me a deeper sense of appreciation for the culture and the people who represent it beautifully.

Culture shock

One particular moment of cultural shock that I remember most was having breakfast at 7 a.m. The food served was traditional Indonesian food, some of which I had never tried before. The dishes were delicious, but the idea of me starting my day by eating rice for breakfast was new to me. These little experiences, though minor, taught me about the eating culture in Indonesia and how it is different from my country. For us, we usually start our first meal at 9, and it mostly consists of bread and legumes. That is why it was completely new to me.

I would say attending this event could also be considered to be a culture shock because the welcoming parties and events that are usually held for freshman students are not a common thing in my country. Universities always start right away with the curriculum without having any briefing about the major or engaging events with other students, and that makes their adaptation to university life a bit harder.

Impact of the Event

Even though this event was completely in Bahasa Indonesian, the side discussions and casual conversations were too; however, I was surprised by the fact that most of the students tried their best to not make me feel left out and to accompany me. They used to translate most of the information on the event, my role in the film, and many other things. Going through this experience made me feel that there was room for international students in such events, and there was a space for them to step out of their comfort zone and engage with a new academic and cultural environment.

Attending INCOMS as the only international student was both a challenge and an opportunity. The event not only enhanced my academic experience but also allowed me to experience Indonesian hospitality and culture in a way I hadn’t before.

My advice for international students attending such events is to fully enjoy the experience. There will be moments of culture shock or language barriers, these challenges are growth opportunities. Be open to engage with local students and professionals, and take advantage of such great events. Good luck to you all.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita

ACSS 2024: Welcome New Members of IPC!

IPC
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Academic Skills Study (ACSS) 2024 is a welcome programme specially prepared for new International Program Communications students (IPC) students. Taking the theme Adapting & Thriving: Youth, Lead, Learn, and Grow this activity took place on 11 October and 13 October 2024 around the FPSB Building at UII.

Not only discussing the academic world that will be lived in approximately the next 4 years, new IPC students also get briefings related to how to adapt to a new social environment, to face challenges and opportunities.

Chairperson of the ACSS 2024 programme, Fatma Nuraini Zahra, S.Sos., MA revealed that the series of agendas that had been prepared were tailored to the needs of students. Professionals from Communication and Psychology experts were brought in to facilitate the new IPC 2024 students, all of whom are Gen Z.

“An essential programme to foster learning motivation and provide an overview of IPC programmes. This activity also increases students‘ ability to build resilience to help them adapt to learning activities in college that are different from high school,” She explained.

“In addition, this activity is also a space to create a familiar and harmonious atmosphere and hone the ability to collaborate between IPC students, especially new students and with the seniors because this event also actively involves IPC 2023 students as a part of the implementation team.” She added.

The first day of ACSS 2024, was filled with indoor materials starting from ‘Public Speaking and Presenting Using AI by Dr. Herman Felani, followed by Introduction to IPC by the IPC Programme Secretary, Ida Nuraini Dewi Kodrat Ningsih, S.I.Kom., M.A. The third material was by Wanadya Ayu Krishna Dewi, S.Psi., M.A. (FPSB Psychology Lecturer) who discussed “Adapting from Highschool to Higher Education and Preparing to the Global Citizenship”. Last but not least, a sharing session by Fiellah Muttaqiyah, IPC 2021 student.

The second day of the activity was carried out outdoors by exploring the environment around the campus.  Walid Jumlad, S.Psi, M.Psi, Psychologist was a facilitator in the Bonding, Outbound, and Character Building programme.

“All games have meaning, we can learn from the existing process starting from strengthening the relationship, forming groups and working together, as well as the process in games thathave organised and neat stages similar to the lecture process,” he concluded.

Meigitaria Sanita

Awarding Night P2A 2024: A Collaborative Project between Indonesia and Malaysia

Awarding night
Reading Time: 2 minutes

After traveling to the two countries of Indonesia and Malaysia, it was time for the P2A 2024 Awarding Night. The appreciation moment on 5 October 2024 marked the end of the Passage to ASEAN (P2A) 2024 series.

The awarding night was conducted in a hybrid way, live in the TV studio of the UII Communication Science Study Program, by combining Zoom meetings for delegates spread across two countries.

This international mobility involving Universitas Islam Indonesia and Universiti Utara Malaysia took place from 19 to 29 August 2024, travelling around Yogyakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Kedah, and Langkawi. Twenty delegates attended. The delegates were divided into groups and responsible for completing projects related to the AWARE theme: Exploring Digital Culture and Urban Environment in Creative Ecosystem. The work produced from the P2A 2024 project is in the form of photos, videos, and writings.

The P2A 2024 Awarding Night was also attended online by several university officials including the Vice Rector for Partnership and Entrepreneurship of UII, Ir. Wiryono Raharjo, M.Arch., Ph.D and Iwan Awaluddin Yusuf, S.IP., M.Si., Ph.D as the Head of UII Communication Science Department. While from UUM Dr Syamsul Hirdi bin Muhid and several other lecturers.

Both representatives from the university expressed their gratitude for the international collaboration that has been established since the last few years. Interestingly, the collaboration produced outputs that were able to hone the skills of the delegates from both universities.

The event that night was even more interesting because it was enlivened by art performances from the two cultures of Indonesia and Malaysia. Firstly Butterfly Dance, Javanese Dance and Rap from UII, while from UUM gave an offering of folk songs from Malaysia.

The most awaited moment was of course the announcement of the winner of the creative work of the delegates. After going through the judging process, the three best works were selected. The appointed jury was Marjito Iskandar Tri Gunawan, M.I.Kom who is a UII laboratory assistant as well as a film activist, while the representative from UUM was Dr Azzura.

List of Best Works in P2A 2024

3rd Winner:

– Spica, Latifah, Noraisyafika, Athirah, Batrisya: Travel Journal

2nd Winner:

– Nandita, Dila: Video Reel: Two Nations, One Journey

1st Winner Best Project

– Nurfahmi, Musdalifah, Kissharoopy, Faeiq: Everything’s Waiting For You

More information about P2A 2024 can be accessed on the following page:

P2A 2024: Outbound Program di Malaysia hingga Konferensi Internasional di Langkawi

P2A 2024: Inbound Program di Yogyakarta, Urban Walking hingga Cultural Night

Meigitaria Sanita

Mahasiswa IP Komunikasi Bergabung pada Symposium Internasional di Malaysia Bahas Isu Gender

International conference
Reading Time: < 1 minute

Salah satu mahasiswa International Program (IP) Ilmu Komunikasi UII, Muhammad Fathurrahman Prima Sakti telah bergabung pada forum internasional bertajuk International Youth Inclusive Symposium and Leadership Camp (IYISLC) 2024, di Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia pada 29 Agustus hingga 1 September 2024.

Perhelatan IYISLC 2024 mengambil tema Space for All: Promoting Inclusive Youth Leadership, dalam kesempatan tersebut Sakti menyampaikan risetnya terkait gender dalam media di Indonesia ‘Analysis of Gender Equality in The Perspective of Javanese Culture at Kedaulatan Rakyat and Harian Jogja’.

Kesetaraan gender dan inklusi sosial di Indonesia dalam riset tersebut disuarakan agar mampu memberikan pemahaman yang lebih luas. Sementara hasil diskusi nantinya akan menghasilkan pemikiran bahkan kebijakan yang inovatif dalam mengentaskan persoalan-persoalan yang terjadi.

“Menuntaskan problem representasi merupakan perjalanan panjang yang perlu dilakukan dengan pendekatan interdisipliner yang holistik. Pendekatan ini diharapkan dapat memberikan pemahaman komprehensif terkait fenomena sosial yang kompleks, membantu proses identifikasi akar masalah, dan menghadirkan solusi yang inovatif. Dalam upaya ini, partisipasi intelektual muda amat diperlukan,” ujar Sakti.

Forum internasional tersebut diikuti oleh pemuda anggota ASEAN dengan segmentasi usia 15-25 tahun yang tertarik dalam bidang riset, pendidikan, pengabdian masyarakat, dan kebijakan publik.

Tak hanya mendiskusikan hasil risetnya, para delegasi mengikuti berbagai rangkaian kegiatan mulai dari coaching clinik, focus group discussion, hingga terjun langsung dalam kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat di Sekolah Lingkungan – Refugee Camp Kuala Lumpur.

Pengalamannya dalam forum internasional memberikan banyak insight, selain bertemu teman baru dan menjalin relasi dari berbagai negara, ia juga mendapat perspektif yang luas dan segar.

Sebagai pemuda Sakti juga memberikan pesan sederhana untuk teman-teman lainnya, terkait bagaimana mengtaskan tanggung jawab serta bagaimana mengambil peluang.

“Finished what you already started. So, start it right now and grab what you want,” pungkasnya.

Meigitaria Sanita

Leaving Home for an Opportunity: A Journey from Yemen to Indonesia

Yemen
Reading Time: 3 minutes

I’m a girl who grew up in a family that supports the idea of taking any risks to grow or chase a dream that you want to follow. Growing up in such a family made me a brave girl who never lost a long-waited opportunity or dream. When I first learned that I had received a scholarship to study in universities Universitas Islam Indonesia, I was overwhelmed by a mix of excitement and anxiety. It is not just about leaving Yemen. It was about the dream of a little girl to have such a chance to step into an entirely new world, a world that would add up to her growth and her experience too. Getting prepared to pursue this dream and leave my home behind was not just a physical journey; it felt like I was also leaving behind everything I had ever known or loved, my family, friends, and the familiarity of my daily life.

The decision to leave Yemen was not easy. It was filled with an emotional and physical struggle too. The opportunity was something I had always talked about with my sisters and was something I would add to my dream list every year. Although I was filled with excitement, there was a heavy feeling in my heart. The thought of saying goodbye to my family, not knowing when I would return, and the fear of them growing up older and me not having enough memories with them always scared me. The scholarship felt like a golden ticket to a better future, but at the same time, it required me to let go of so much.

The process of leaving was filled with endless paperwork, visa applications, and the chaos of preparing for a life abroad. I remember one time when my family and I had to travel more than 12 hours by car to renew my passport. The situation in Yemen made it harder for me to finish the process with less effort. Sometimes when I struggled with the paperwork and tried to cope with the situation, it made me feel like it was a mountain I would never be able to climb, but I know deep down that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I have to work hard for it.

The Journey to Indonesia

I remember my mom’s hug at the airport, the plane ride, and how I watched Yemen disappear below me. I feel scared of the idea that I’m going to land in a place that could not be more different from what I know. The flights were long, with layovers and waiting, but every moment brought me closer to my dream, to a place that I had read about with no real understanding of anything.

When I first landed in Indonesia, the first thing that I felt through their action was the warmth of people and their hospitality. The noise at the airport, the unfamiliar language, the food, and the beautiful sights. It all hit me at once. It felt like I had been transported to a completely new world, but I always figured out a way to find beauty in that diversity and unfamiliarity; it was a completely fresh start.

Adapting to life in Indonesia took me longer than I imagined. The culture, the language, the way people communicate—all of it was very different to me. I found that I was pushing myself too hard to adapt as soon as possible and had always been worried about making mistakes. But over time, I started to try to take my time. I learned to appreciate the kindness of strangers, their excitement to get to know me, and the help they offer each time. I also learned to navigate the language barrier by trying to learn common phrases and words. I attended a Bahasa Indonesian class that the university organized for international students, and that helped me a lot. Little by little, the feeling of being a foreigner or an outsider started to reduce, and I started to feel the warmth of this country.

As time passed, I realized this journey was not just about education; it was also about my personal growth. Living in a different country, far away from home, and handling all my responsibilities on my own made me more independent, resilient, and open-minded. I started to see the world from a different angle, understanding that the 18 years that I spent in Yemen were just a part of larger growth and experience. Most importantly, I have learned more about myself, my weaknesses, strengths, abilities, and capacity for growth.

When I look back on the journey from Yemen to Indonesia, I feel a sense of gratitude. The decision was not easy, but it was the best thing I would do for my future self. This experience has opened doors I did not know existed and has given me a vision for the future that is bigger than I have dreamed. The only advice that I could give to anyone thinking of taking a similar path is to not hesitate. There will be moments when you feel lost, feel homesick, and want to leave everything and return home. But I believe that this experience will shape you most unexpectedly, and you will realize the journey is as important as the dream you want to achieve.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita

The Journey of Self Acceptance

Self Acceptance
Reading Time: 3 minutes

“This article is a personal experience from one of the international students at UII. She tells us about the culture and social environment in Yemen. Interestingly, meeting people from different countries brought a new personal growth to her”

I have always wondered if the struggle of not feeling like I belong to my society would ever disappear, or if I would have to keep trying to fit in. From an early age, society teaches us about the importance of fitting in, and how it is rewarded, while on the other hand deviating from social norms will only lead to rejection or judgment.  I remember the time a teacher yelled at me because I was against the idea of forcing young girls to wear hijabs. She wanted me to agree lie everyone else without saying what I thought or even giving me the chance to explain my thoughts. Growing up surrounded by such people, and such an environment turned me into a person who constantly seeks societal validation and acceptance from others, instead of myself.

We deliberately seek out similar and recognizable norms like conforming to stereotypes and suppressing our true thoughts and emotions, to feel secure. If we’re doing the same as everyone else, we must be doing it right, and finding a reflection of ourselves in those around us is a form of validation. Moreover, the fear of ending up alone is always triggering to most of us.

Living in such a society or environment during my teenage years was very challenging, and the feeling of being an outsider has always accompanied me-whether in school or among people around me. The stress of being someone else to fit in is a heavy burden to bear. I would usually choose to do what others are doing. To fit in and blend with society. This desire slowly started to become an obsession. As a result, it led to the loss of individuality and uniqueness of my personality. It also felt like I was starting to lose connection with my authentic self.

I started to embrace my flaws, except myself for who I am, and stop being afraid of being myself. These things helped me to long for a space where I could express myself freely with no judgment, where I didn’t feel the need to force myself to think and act in a certain way. This journey has its ups and downs. I sometimes question myself if I’m doing the right thing or if it’s worth enduring society’s rejection, but every time I choose myself above anything else I remember why I started this journey in the first place.

Meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds helped me to see the beauty of diversity in their thoughts and experiences. I remember the first time I   expressed my thoughts without the fear of being judged. Everyone was open to the idea of diversity in thoughts, experiences, and mindsets. This was shown by everyone’s actions, and they welcomed the idea of everyone presenting themselves not others. This life experience that I have been through not only taught me how to make good individual choices for myself but also made me open-minded to different perspectives. I would say that the experience began when I traveled for the first time in my life. It was an unprepared life decision that my family made for our sake, and we were afraid it was going to be a good step for us. For me, I would say it was a complete turning point in my life, and in the way I see myself.

As I grew older and got involved in more life experiences, I realized that respect for my thoughts should start from me, or I would always feel the need to fake my personality to feel welcomed by others. This realization was hard but necessary. Also waiting for others to accept or love you isn’t the answer. Acceptance has to start with you only. It took time and energy to reach the truth, but as I began living this truth, I finally felt like me again with a sense of freedom. You will never shine brighter than when you are being your true self.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita

P2A 2024: Outbound Program di Malaysia hingga Konferensi Internasional di Langkawi

P2A
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Selepas mengeksplore Yogyakarta dalam program inbound Passage to ASEAN (P2A) 2024, delegasi dari Internasional Program Ilmu Komunikasi UII bersama delegasi SCIMPA UUM akhirnya terbang ke Malaysia pada 24 Agustus 2024.

Menariknya 10 delegasi dari UII akan mengeksplore beberapa wilayah di Malayasia mulai dari Kedah yang merupakan rumah dari UUM, Langkawi, hingga Kuala Lumpur. Selama enam hari para delegasi akan mengikuti berbagai program yang telah disiapkan oleh pihak SCIMPA UUM,

Berbeda dengan program inbound, beberapa agenda yang akan diikuti delegasi UII selama di Malaysia adalah visiting to SCIMPA Anjung Tamu, photography session, hingga bergabung dalam konferensi internasional di Langkawi.

Tak hanya menjadi peserta dalam konferensi internasional, salah satu dosen pendamping dari Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi, Dr. Herman Felani, S.S., M.A ditunjuk menjadi keynote speaker dalam forum internasional tersebut.

Visiting Anjung Tamu dan Photography Session

Setelah tiba di Malaysia, pada 25 Agustus 2024 delegasi UII lakukan kunjungan ke SCIMPA Anjung Tamu. Berkeliling di lokasi kampus juga mengenal budaya akademik yang tentu berbeda dengan Indonesia.

Usai lakukan kampus tour, 10 delegasi dari UII berkesempatan belajar fotografi dengan Klub Kamera Kedah. Jika workshop photography sesi inbound di Yogyakarta mengambil latar alam, di Malaysia Klub Kamera Kedah mengajak para delegasi untuk mengeksplore kota di Alor Setar.

Photo session dilakukan dengan berbagai objek bangunan serta saling bergantian menjadi model dengan busana khas daerah.

CIIC Langkawi and Cultural Dinner

Konferensi internasional Creative Industry International Conference (CIIC) yang selenggarakan SCIMPA UUM pada 26 Agustus 2024 di Goldsand Hotel, Pulau Langkawi, Malaysia turut mengundang dosen prodi Ilmu Komunikasi yakni Dr. Herman Felani, S.S., M.A sebagai keynote speaker.

Bertemakan “The Emergence of AI in Culture and Creative Industries: Opportunities and Challenges.” Dalam presentasinya Herman Felani menyajikan hasil penelitiannya terkait penggunaan AI (artificial intelligence) atau kecerdasan buatan dan budaya populer dalam kampanye pemilihan presiden Indonesia di tahun 2024.

“Dalam dunia politik, AI yang dikombinasikan dengan budaya populer berhasil menarik pemilihan para pemilih muda khususnya dari generasi millenial dan Gen Z untuk mengekspresikan dukungan politik kepada kandidat presiden dan wakil presiden sebagai bagian dari kampanye yang kreatif,” ujarnya.

Diskusi tersebut mengundang banyak pertanyaan dan diskusi lebih lanjut, bagi audiens Malaysia fenomena yang dipaparkan tidak ditemui dalam pemilihan umum di Malaysia dan merupakan sesuatu yang unik dan menarik bagi warga Malaysia.

Sementara salah seorang mahasiswa S3 dari Universiti Utara Malaysia yang berasal dari China menyatakan bahwa presentasi dari Dosen UII tersebut memberikan inspirasi baginya untuk mengembangkan penelitiannya melalui penggunaan AI untuk melestarikan budaya ziarah ke makam keluarga di China.

Usai konferensi internasional, agenda ditutup dengan cultural dinner dari kedua pihak. Ini merupakan forum hangat dan santai.

Keterlibatan UII sebagai mitra Universiti Utara Malaysia 2024 merupakan bagian realiasi kerjasama yang telah berlangsung sejak 2018 antara Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi UII dengan SCIMPA UUM. Program ini merupakan rangkaian dari Program P2A ICE CREAM (Passage to ASEAN International Course on Creative Media) yang merupakan program mobility untuk mahasiswa UII dan UUM yang berlangsung pada 19-29 Agustus 2024. 10 orang mahasiswa International Program Ilmu Komunikasi UII juga hadir dalam workshop penggunaan AI dalam Produksi Konten yang menjadi acara pembuka CIIC 2024.

Meigitaria Sanita

P2A 2024: Inbound Program di Yogyakarta, Urban Walking hingga Cultural Night

P2A
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Passage to ASEAN (P2A) 2024 bertajuk AWARE: Exploring Digital Culture and Urban Environment in Creative Ecosystem telah berlangsung dengan seru. Kegiatan ini melibatkan dua institusi pendidikan yakni International Program (IP) Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi UII bersama SCIMPA Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). Terdapat berbagai agenda menarik yang dilakukan dalam perjalanan dua negara di Indonesia dan Malaysia.

Inbound program mengambil latar di Yogyakarta, Provinsi yang kaya budaya tak akan habis dieksplorasi hanya dengan waktu satu pekan. Inbound berlangsung selama lima hari sejak 20 hingga 24 Agustus 2024. Peserta dari dua negara memiliki misi untuk menyelesaikan berbagai tugas pada setiap sesinya.

Tak hanya bersenang-senang keliling dua negara, program P2A memiliki prinsip Project Based Learning (PBL) dimana setiap delegasi berkesempatan meningkatkan hard skill dan soft skill untuk membuat berbagai karya dan konten melalui media. Selain itu mereka juga ditantang untuk bekerja sama dalam tim dengan berbagai perbedaan karakter dan budaya.

Dibuka langsung oleh Dekan Fakultas Psikologi dan Ilmu Sosial Budaya (FPSB) UII, Qurotul Uyun menyebut jika tema yang diangkat tahun ini menarik dan sesuai dengan beberapa masalah yang terjadi di Yogyakarta.

“Konsisten dilakukan setiap tahunnya, artinya ada komitmen antara dua belah pihak. Saya sangat mengapresiasi hal ini. Sementara isu yang diangkat, khususnya lingkungan di Yogyakarta ini sangat relate. Isu ini memang membutuhkan perhatian dari kita semua,” ujarnya dalam speech yang di gelar di Auditorium FPSB, (21/08).

Pada kesempatan yang sama Kaprodi Ilmu Komunikasi, Iwan Awaluddin Yusuf menyambut para delegasi dari SCIMPA UUM dengan pantun. Memiliki kedekatan budaya Melayu, pantun mampu mencerminkan nilai-nilai kearifan lokal dan kesamaan identitas dua negara.

“Dari Kedah terbang ke Jogja. Mengikuti perjamuan di UII. Hati merekah datang ke acara Passage to Asean. Semoga persahabatan abadi hingga nanti,” ujarnya.

Disambut dengan hangat, perwakilan yakni Syamsul Hirdi Bin Muhid, selaku Deputy Dean (Student Affairs and Alumni) UUM mengaku lega dan seperti mengunjungi keluarga sendiri.

“Our first day it has been very, actually you know describe we feel. And we feel we are coming back to home and we are coming to our family,” ujarnya.

Program Inbound di Yogyakarta

Sesuai dengan tema yang AWARE: Exploring Digital Culture and Urban Environment in Creative Ecosystem semua program yang dirancang khusus oleh IP Ilmu Komunikasi UII bersama tim fokus dengan eksplorasi budaya di Yogyakarta, khususnya wilayah perkotaan. Tak hanya itu, budaya digital serta ekosistem kreatif di sekitarnya juga tak luput dari perhatian.

Selama pelaksanaan program, delegasi dari SCIMPA UUM didampingi oleh buddies yang berasal dari mahasiswa Ilmu Komunikasi UII. Mereka membentuk beberapa tim untuk saling aktif berdiskusi selama program berlangsung

Campus Tour

Herman Felani, salah satu dosen Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi mengajak para delegasi mengelilingi lingkungan kampus UII. Beberapa gedung yang disambangi adalah FPSB, FIAI, dan sekitarnya. Herman menjelaskan secara detail mulai dari sejarah hingga gaya arsitekturnya.

Tak terlewatkan, Gedung Mohammad Hatta adalah tujuan utama. Perpustakaan pusat ini memiliki koleksi yang beragam hingga arsitekturnya yang tak biasa ternyata menyimpan sejarah dan peradaban yang sangat kaya. Di sana terdapat museum yang berisi informasi sejarah UII, sisi kanan berbagai artefak administrasi, bagian tengah berbagai benda bersejarah milik rektor pertama UII, KH Abdul Kahar Muzakkir. Dan sisi kiri dipenuhi dengan visual sejarah perjalanan UII.

Sementara, hal menarik lain adalah bangunan Candi Kimpulan yang tak sengaja ditemukan saat pembangunan perpustakaan tahun 2009 lalu. Candi bercorak Hindu ini sejajar dengan keberadaan Masjid Ulil Albab UII. Menambah nilai kergaman dalam sejarah budaya dan agama di wilayah Jawa.

Sejarah lengkap Candi Kimpulan dapat diakses melalui laman berikut:

https://library.uii.ac.id/candi/

Urban Walking Workshop

Tak hanya jalan-jalan di pusat kota, Urban Walking Workshop ini menggunakan sensory method. Zaki Habibi, dosen Prodi Ilmu Komunikasi UII sebagai fasilitator dalam workshop tersebut menekankan bahwa dalam jalan-jalan itu menekankan penggunaan seluruh indra untuk mengeksplorasi pengalaman perjalanan itu.

Dimulai dari Tugu Golong Gilig (Tugu Yogyakarta) pada pukul 08.00 WIB kemudian melanjutkan perjalanan melalui jalan utama Kota Yogyakarta yang masuk dalam bagian situs UNESCO World Heritage: mulai dari jalan Margo Utomo, Mangkubumi, melewati rel kereta, kemudian berakhir di Jalan Malioboro. Jarak perjalanan kurang lebih sejauh 2.5 kilometer.

Photography Workshop

Mengambil latar di Ledok Sambi, photography workshop berlangsung pada 22 Agustus 2024 dipandu oleh Hardoyo, dosen sekaligus praktisi bidang fotografi dan desain grafis. Sebelum menerjunkan para delegasi untuk hunting foto di alam, Hardoyo menjelaskan sejarah bagaimana Ledok Sambi yang merupakan desa wisata inisiasi warga hingga budayanya.

Hasil jepretan dari delegasi UII dan UUM akhirnya direview satu per satu. Salah satu yang disampaikan terkait teknik mengambil foto adalah membuat komposisi yang tepat.

“Dalam mengambil foto kita harus berani untuk mendekati objek, agar angle dan komposisi lebih pas dan tidak ambigu,” ujar Hardoyo.

Cultural Night

Ini merupakan program terakhir yang berlangsung di Hotel Cakra Kembang. Program penutup tersebut menampilkan dua pertunjukan dari UUM dan UII. Diawali dengan makan malam yang hangat, kemudian acara dilanjutkan dengan pertunjukan kedua negara.

Delegasi UUM menampilkan tarian dan lagu-lagu Melayu, lengkap dengan pakaian adat yakni baju kurung. Sementara, dari UII menampilkan teater dengan cerita modern atas fenomena viral di media sosial.

Penulis: Meigitaria Sanita