In a significant effort to promote access to education and cultural diversity, the American Studies Students and Alumni Association (ASSAA) in collaboration with the American Studies Society Indonesia (ASSINDO) successfully organized a series of events titled “Lecture Series and Thanksgiving Lunch 2024.” This event, held online via Zoom, focused on the theme “The Evolution of American Identity in a Multicultural Society,” reflecting the importance of education for sustainability and equal access to knowledge in developing countries.

Lecture Series Documentation

The Lecture Series commenced on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, with two engaging sessions. The first session featured Dr. Suzie Handajani, M.A., who discussed “Asian Americans: From Mainstream Media to Social Media.” This session highlighted the representation of Asian Americans in various media forms, emphasizing the need for cultural diversity in narratives that shape American identity.

Following Dr. Handajani’s presentation, Tino Torres, a graduate student from the City University of New York, presented on “American Identity Through a New York City Lens: A Reflection on Diversity and Cultural Contrasts.” His insights provided a unique perspective on how New York City, as a melting pot of cultures, influences the understanding of American identity.

Lecture Series Documentation

The second session took place on Thursday morning, November 7, 2024. Dr. Nur Saktiningrum, M.A., led a discussion on “Navigating Diversity: The Role of Intersectionality in Shaping American Identity.” This session underscored the importance of recognizing various intersecting identities in understanding the complexities of American culture.

Lecture Series Documentation

Prof. Dr. H. Nuriadi, S.S., M.Hum., followed with a fascinating exploration titled “Exploring The Use Of Pronoun Thou, Thee, Thy, Or Thine: A Fact From The American Quakers.” His presentation delved into the historical and cultural significance of language in shaping identity, further enriching the discourse on cultural diversity.

Participants in the Lecture Series included students and faculty from various universities across Indonesia, showcasing the event’s commitment to equal access to education and fostering a collaborative learning environment. The diverse audience reflected the cultural richness and academic engagement present in the field of American Studies.

Movie Discussion Documentation

On the afternoon of Thursday, November 7, the event culminated in a Movie Discussion and Thanksgiving Lunch. This gathering was attended by esteemed guests, including faculty members from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, graduate students from American Studies, English Literature students, and representatives from ASSINDO. The event provided a platform for networking and sharing experiences among attendees.

The Movie Discussion, moderated by Ahdi Sakha, was characterized by a warm atmosphere and enthusiastic participation. Dr. Aris Munandar, M.Hum., opened the session with a heartfelt welcome, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to gather as an academic community during this festive occasion.

Following the discussion, attendees enjoyed a Thanksgiving Lunch, which served as a perfect opportunity for participants to reconnect, share experiences, and reminisce about their time in the American Studies program. This gathering not only celebrated academic achievements but also reinforced the bonds of community and cultural exchange.

The successful execution of the “Lecture Series and Thanksgiving Lunch 2024” exemplifies the commitment of ASSAA and ASSINDO to promote access to education, cultural diversity, and sustainable practices in the field of American Studies. As the world continues to evolve, such initiatives play a crucial role in fostering understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures, particularly in developing countries.

[Public Relation Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM, Sandya Kirani]

The Roadshow of Master of American Studies UGM to the City of Heroes, Surabaya, which was held on November 28-29, 2024, successfully became an important momentum in expanding academic networks. In addition to carrying out the study program promotion agenda, visits to Airlangga University (UNAIR), as well as the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Indonesia, Surabaya also reflects the commitment of the Master of American Studies Program to continue to advance the field of transnational studies and strengthen collaboration between institutions.

The UGM delegation made the first visit to the Master’s Program in Literature and Cultural Studies, UNAIR on Thursday, November 28, 2024. On this occasion, 13 students of Master of American Studies were accompanied by the Head of Study Program, Dr. Aris Munandar, M. Hum. Upon arrival at UNAIR, the group was warmly welcomed by the Head of Master of Arts in Literature and Culture, UNAIR, Mr. Edi Dwi Riyanto, S.S., M.Hum., Ph.D., who is also an alumnus of Master of Arts in American Studies, UGM, as well as several representatives of lecturers and students of Master of Arts in Literature and Culture and English Literature, UNAIR. The meeting began with the presentation of information on the excellence and curriculum of the Master of American Studies, UGM by Dr. Aris Munandar, M. Hum. Then, this presentation was continued by several students who shared their academic and non-academic experiences while studying at the Master of American Studies, UGM.

This visit also resulted in productive discussions through Forum Group Discussion (FGD) between lecturers and students. In particular, the lecturers collected stakeholder aspirations in the context of the 2025 Curriculum review. For students, this meeting not only strengthened the relationship between students of Master of American Studies UGM and Master of Literary and Cultural Studies, UNAIR, but also resulted in initiatives for collaborative work programs in the academic field for 2025 through the student associations of Master of American Studies, UGM and Master of Literary and Cultural Studies, UNAIR. By sharing insights about their respective curricula, scientific publications, and excellent programs, both study programs have opened up opportunities for broader joint development.

Picture 1 Forum Group Discussion of UGM and UNAIR lecturers

On Friday, November 29, 2024, the group visited the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Indonesia, Surabaya to conclude the roadshow series. This visit became a valuable experience for Master students of American studies. The talk show session with Kayla M. Smith, Foreign Service Officer, provided a new picture of various American cultural traditions, especially related to the Thanksgiving celebration. In addition, the discussion with a warm and intimate atmosphere with Kayla, who also relates some Indonesian cultural traditions, also adds to the experience of cultural dimensions that are relevant to the context of transnational American Studies for students.

Picture 2 Group Photo at the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Indonesia office, Surabaya

This series of roadshows provides experience of synergy between academic institutions and external parties to encourage inclusive, cross-cultural, and contextual learning for students. The success of this event is expected to be a foothold for deeper collaboration in the future, strengthening the position of UGM Master of American Studies as an innovative, adaptive, and globally oriented study program.