Semarang (09/04) – The success story of an alumna from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) at Diponegoro University (Undip) has once again inspired current and prospective students. Through a TikTok Live event titled “Building a Career in the International Arena,” Ani Nigeriawati—a Diplomatic Officer at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs with over 25 years of experience—shared her life and professional journey, marked by dedication and passion. The session was hosted by the Dean of FISIP Undip, Dr. Drs. Teguh Yuwono, M.Pol.Admin., and attended by coordinators of the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) from various study programs within FISIP.

During the event, Ani, who currently serves as the Director of Public Diplomacy at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, began by reminiscing about her time as a Communication Science student at Undip in the class of 1992. She revealed that although the field of communication was not as popular then as it is now, she saw great potential in journalism and public relations.

“Back then, we didn’t just focus on academics. Undip gave us many opportunities to be creative,” she recalled. Ani also shared that she co-founded the Globis basketball club and joined a campus band that once opened for Java Jive.

The alumna, who holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Indonesia, emphasized that the foundational communication skills she acquired during her studies played a crucial role in her diplomatic career. “The essence of diplomacy lies in the ability to communicate effectively—to influence and persuade. These techniques, both in theory and practice, I learned in Communication Science,” she asserted. Ani has been posted to various countries, including Australia, Germany, and South Korea, and has held strategic positions such as Head of Russian Affairs and Deputy Director of Strategic Planning. She also received an award from the South Korean government while serving as Minister Counsellor in Seoul.

During the dialogue session, the Lagos-born diplomat highlighted the importance of public speaking, understanding global issues, and mastering foreign languages, particularly English. “Don’t wait until graduation to build your skills and networks. The key is to establish connections early and seize every opportunity, whether through exchange programs or interacting with international students,” she advised.

She further stressed that Communication Science graduates have significant opportunities in diplomacy, on par with those from International Relations, Law, or Economics. Public communication, she noted, is a critical aspect of modern diplomacy, especially in conveying foreign policies to domestic and international audiences.

Responding to a question from the IUP Government Science Coordinator, Ani—who also participated in the Foreign Service Program at Oxford University—explained that understanding governance systems is highly relevant in international relations. “Diplomacy becomes more effective when we comprehend the governance characteristics of other countries,” she said.

To conclude, the diplomat, who led Indonesia’s ASEAN Chairmanship Task Force in 2023, shared three essential tips for students: building networks, strengthening soft skills, and honing both verbal and written communication abilities. She also shared her life motto: “The only limit is your imagination.”

Through this inspiring TikTok Live session, FISIP Undip reaffirmed its commitment to showcasing accomplished alumni who serve as role models and sources of motivation for the next generation.

Contributor & Translator:
Nur Inayah