Yogyakarta, 30/4/2025 – On Wednesday, 23 April, six students from the American Studies program of FIB, Gadjah Mada University, finished their studies by producing a thesis focusing on social issues and culture that was part of American popular culture. Those six students who graduated consist of Eliyawati and Zahra Kamila from Angkatan 2022 genap, A. Fahmi Dahlan, Leny Roslinda Sinaga, Annida Ul Marhamah from Angkatan 2022 Ganjil,  and Aprilia Nilham from  Angkatan 2021 Genap. In their thesis, not only the graduate show deep examination of America internally, but also study on America influence that was felt by another country, which is Indonesia.

One thesis written by A. Fahmi Dahlan, “American Hegemony in Indonesian Mass Culture: A Case Study on Hip-hop Community in Wijilan Yogyakarta,” examined how Indonesian hip-hop music was influenced by American hip-hop music through its complex elements. This thesis found that the hegemony in Wijilan hip-hop music could be seen through its cultural empowerment and use of hip-hop as a tool to criticize social issues. In other words, they adapt and merge the global influence with local identity.

As a comparison to previous theses that connected America with Indonesia, the thesis written by Eliyawati titled “The Representation of American Women’s Religiosity in Young Sheldon” found that the concept of Christianity embraced by American women can be observed through their attitudes and the implementation of religious values, including in the roles of women within the family—roles that show a stark contrast when compared to women who do not adhere to any particular faith. In her thesis, she also argues that this representation is evident across the three generations portrayed in Young Sheldon.
Through research that employs a variety of perspectives and issues, their writings are expected to enrich and become references for future studies, especially those related to America, popular culture, and social issues both within America and globally, in order to help build a more open society.

[Public Relation of American Studies, Reni Renatawati]

Yogyakarta, 1 May 2025 — In a relaxed and warm atmosphere, the staff of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM), held a recreational activity titled “FIB Mancing Mania” on Thursday (1/5). The event took place from 07.00 to 12.00 WIB at the fishing pond owned by Mr Suwanto, a retired FIB UGM staff member, located in Gondangan, Margomulyo, Seyegan, Sleman.

This inaugural fishing gathering served as a special moment for the staff to unwind and refresh, while also acting as a communal activity to strengthen collegial ties. The event was officially opened by the Dean of FIB UGM, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si., who expressed his appreciation for the enthusiasm and team spirit of the staff. He also emphasised the importance of maintaining a sense of kinship and teamwork beyond formal institutional settings.

The warm atmosphere was evident in the participants’ interactions—fishing, sharing stories, and enjoying leisure time together in a natural, open-air setting. More than just a source of entertainment, the event became an informal space to foster solidarity and togetherness in the workplace.

Through “FIB Mancing Mania”, it is hoped that the spirit of cooperation, camaraderie, and a positive work environment will continue to grow and thrive among the FIB UGM staff.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Bulan Churniati]