International Students

Master of Communication Science

I currently serve as the Public Relations Coordinator for the African Association (National Committee of the African Union) in Cairo, Egypt. I bring years of experience and a passion for strategic communication to the Master’s Program in Communication Science at FISIP UNDIP.

Throughout my career, I have received numerous awards at both the national and international levels. However, the desire to continue growing never stops. I chose MIKOM UNDIP because of its strong global reputation, recognized by trusted ranking agencies as one of the recommended master’s programs in the world.

It was this global recognition that gave me the confidence to deepen my Public Relations expertise here. And UNDIP did not disappoint, providing me with the knowledge and network to take my career to the next level.

— Islam Karem Rouby Mohammed, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(Public Relations Coordinator, African Association | Cairo, Egypt)

My journey at the Master’s Program in Communication Science, Diponegoro University, was driven by a deep interest in the development of Palestinian Media and International Media.

I chose UNDIP because it consistently ranks among the world’s universities according to trusted ranking agencies. But beyond the rankings, what truly impressed me was the quality of the lecturers—experienced and highly competent.

What makes MIKOM unique is its learning approach. Direct research experience through field visits not only expanded my social network but also honed my skills as a prospective journalist. Learning by doing—that’s UNDIP’s way.

— Ahmed A. O. Shbair, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(Palestine)

Born in Gitanga, Burundi on April 9, 1991, my journey in the world of communication began after graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in African Studies from the University of Burundi in 2017. I started my career as a volunteer journalist at the National Radio and Television of Burundi, where my love for storytelling grew.

In 2018, I received the Developing Countries Partnership (KNB) Scholarship and chose to pursue a Master’s degree in Communication Science at Diponegoro University. Why UNDIP? Because this university consistently ranks in the top 10 best universities in Indonesia. However, what helped me adapt most to the new environment was the close relationship between lecturers and students.

As a 12th cohort student with a concentration in Strategic Communication, my research focuses on intercultural interaction and migrant adaptation during crises, specifically the COVID-19 Pandemic. I believe that understanding how people connect across cultures during difficult times can provide valuable lessons for an increasingly global world.

— Silas Hamenyimana, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(KNB Scholarship Recipient | Burundi)

My journey in Indonesia began in 2019 when I received the Arts and Culture Scholarship from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. That experience sparked my curiosity about media and communication in this country.

Driven by that curiosity, I applied for the DISS Scholarship and was accepted into the Master’s Program in Communication Science at UNDIP. I chose UNDIP because it consistently ranks in the top 10 best universities in Indonesia, with almost all programs accredited A.

What makes MIKOM special is its multicultural atmosphere. Studying together with friends from various backgrounds has enriched my perspective and prepared me to compete globally.

Currently, I am designing research on organizational communication policy in Central Java, analyzing hegemony and human behavior through a communication perspective. I dream that this research will not merely be a final assignment, but also make a new contribution to UNDIP and Indonesia, and ultimately be published in a Scopus-indexed journal.

— MD Talebur Islam, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(DISS Scholarship Recipient)

I completed my Bachelor’s in Public Administration and Law, as well as a Master’s in Public Governance from Tilburg University, the Netherlands. My academic journey has always been driven by a desire to understand how societies face complex issues such as climate change, migration, and public security.

But I wanted more. I wanted to learn beyond the textbooks—in a different culture. My positive experience participating in the Darmasiswa program at UNY inspired me to return to Indonesia. That’s when I discovered the Master’s Program in Communication Science at UNDIP.

Why UNDIP? Because this program is one of the few master’s programs in Indonesia conducted entirely in English. And why communication science? Simply put: communication is essential in almost every workplace.

As an enthusiastic and spontaneous person who enjoys meeting new people, I am confident that this program will not only broaden my horizons but also equip me with the skills to create real change.

— Ruben Meijer, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(Tilburg University, the Netherlands)

My life motto is simple: ‘Art is not what you do, but what you leave behind.’ This principle guides me in every personal, educational, and professional journey.

With nearly 10 years of experience in the communication field as a PR advisor, Marketing Manager, and founder of the Jamur Institute, I realized the world is changing fast—and I must change too. I completed my Bachelor’s in Journalism and Communication, and now I am ready to step up to the next level.

I chose the Master’s Program in Communication Science at UNDIP because it offers scholarships for international students and is recognized as one of the best universities in the world. Being part of this excellence is an honor.

For me, communication is about creating a positive impact. At UNDIP, I believe I can hone my ability to persuade, inspire, and leave something meaningful behind.

— Ruiz Kartoredjo, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(Bachelor’s in Journalism and Communication, Academy for Higher Art and Culture Education)

I am a social guy from Utrecht who loves traveling, exploring new things, and meeting new people. When I’m not studying, I play hockey or watch football with friends and family.

My Bachelor’s degree in Commercial Economy with a focus on sports at Fontys University was a perfect fit because sports have always been my passion. Now, I am ready to step up to the next level.

I chose the Master’s Program in Communication Science at UNDIP because communication is a natural continuation of my economics background—especially the marketing communication aspect. I want to understand how to communicate messages effectively. And studying at UNDIP has given me something even more valuable: an international perspective on global issues.

— Thomas Van Schaik, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(Fontys University | The Netherlands)

I am a motivated, dedicated, and committed person—both socially and professionally. I like to set goals that challenge me to keep growing.

I chose the Academy for Higher Art and Culture Education for my Bachelor’s in Journalism and Communication because it was the only institution in Suriname offering this program. The practical approach and consistent progress monitoring made learning enjoyable and relevant to my work.

After graduating, I always dreamed of pursuing a master’s degree in communication. However, in my country, this program is not available. Then I discovered UNDIP—and the scholarship opportunity made this dream a reality.

Now, I am here at the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP, fulfilling my dream and preparing myself to bring new knowledge back to Suriname.

— Adagracia Srisoesiatie Pawiro, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(Academy for Higher Art and Culture Education | Suriname)

I am an optimistic and sociable person who believes that happiness is a choice we make every day. I prefer listening over speaking, and I strive to be kind and helpful to anyone I meet. My life is active and spontaneous—I love exploring new hobbies and interests.

I moved from my hometown to Moscow to study at the Academy of Public Administration. I chose to study teaching foreign languages because I wanted to improve my English skills, learn a new language, and fulfill my dream of teaching children to love other cultures.

Then 2019 came. I came to Indonesia as a Darmasiswa student—and I fell in love. Fell in love with the culture, the people, and the language. I started learning Indonesian and never stopped.

When I discovered the Master’s Program in Communication Science at UNDIP, I knew I had to try. Even though it would feel new and difficult at first. Because my passion had shifted—I now want to study, research, and compare the media, culture, and society of Russia and Indonesia.

Sometimes the best things in life come from the courage to leap. UNDIP was my leap.

— Ekaterina Gitsba, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(Academy of Public Administration | Russia)

Ezekiel Allen is a communication professional with over four years of experience in supporting development programs through coordination and communication. He is passionate about youth development and women’s empowerment, dedicated to communicating change, and committed to contributing to the growth of his community.

After graduating high school, I held three leadership positions including Student Council President. I was often involved in discussions with people of diverse ideologies and perspectives. I decided to study Sociology as a way to deeply understand people, their behavior, and how society functions.

My professional career began in the field of communication, eventually reaching my latest position as Activities and Communication Coordinator. Throughout that journey, I realized how powerful communication is—it can be a force for good or for ill. On the African continent, many achievements and positive stories remain untold, not reaching the wider audience that might see Africa in a different light.

As someone building a career in communication, I chose the Master’s Program in Communication Science at UNDIP because this program will equip me with technical skills and a deep understanding of the intricacies of communication. Although I am a fluent speaker, I want to master content development and message delivery—skills that can truly drive growth and development.

— Ezekiel Allen, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(African Methodist Episcopal University | Liberia)

My name is Miguel Gonçalves. I am a lecturer in the Department of Social Communication at the National University of Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL), where I teach five courses each year: Public Relations, Radio Journalism, Communication Psychology, and Communication Theory. I also supervise students in their research and final projects, and serve as an editor for campus media platforms—Radio, Magazine, Website, and Social Media. In my free time, I enjoy watching TV and reading books.

I chose to study Social Communication for my undergraduate degree because I believe this field is important for society and development, especially in a young country like Timor-Leste. During my studies, I focused on Journalism, Public Relations, and other related courses.

With a bachelor’s degree, I felt it was not enough. I wanted to grow further. Then a friend told me about the scholarship opportunity at UNDIP for international students. I made a promise to myself and chose UNDIP because I believe in its quality and its government-recognized accreditation.

Now, as a student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science at UNDIP, I am confident that this journey will enhance my knowledge, provide valuable experience, and prepare me to contribute meaningfully to the future of my country.

— Miguel Gonçalves, Student of the Master’s Program in Communication Science, UNDIP
(National University of Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL) | Timor-Leste)