Making Achievements and Inspiring: The Journey of the Head of Television and Film Study Program of Fikom Unpad
Behind the success of a study program, there is a highly dedicated leader. The Head of the Television and Film Study Program at Fikom Unpad, Dr. Sri Seti Indriani S.IP., M.Si., is an exemplary example. With a strong educational background and diverse experiences, she has brought this study program to many achievements.
Born and raised in Bandung, Dr. Sri Seti Indriani pursued her undergraduate degree in International Relations at Parahyangan Catholic University. Continuing her passion in communication, she earned her master’s and doctoral degrees in Communication Science at Padjadjaran University. This solid academic journey became a strong foundation in her career as a lecturer.
Before entering academia, Dr. Sri Seti Indriani had a long experience as an educator. Managing Armidale English College, a non-profit English language school that she founded, was her first step. The school is known for its unique approach through drama and storytelling, and has educated over 800 students with thousands of alumni. This success not only proved her skills in education management, but also ignited her passion for teaching.
At first, she opened small lessons at the request of her parents. However, seeing the positive impact, she felt called to develop the tutoring into something bigger. Her interest in education grew stronger when she met Prof. Deddy while pursuing her master’s degree. Prof. Deddy suggested that she apply to Unpad, and with encouragement from her father who was also a lecturer in agriculture, she finally decided to take the opportunity.
As a lecturer, Dr. Sri Seti Indriani not only acts as a facilitator between students and lecturers, but also as an educator who shapes student character. “I believe that a lecturer’s job is not only to teach in class, but also to guide students in their lives,” she said. In addition, she also tries to be a friend that students can rely on.
However, the journey as a lecturer is not always smooth. The biggest challenge they face is maintaining a balance between research, service and teaching. Rapidly developing technology requires them to always be up to date, which is a challenge in itself. In addition, the lack of human resources, especially lecturers in the Television and Film study program, is an obstacle that must be faced. Often, they have to rely on interns and practitioners who are not full-time educators to fulfill their teaching needs.
Dr. Sri Seti Indriani specializes in qualitative research methods, film, semiotics, and women’s studies. Although there is no active research at the moment, her previous works have addressed various important issues. One of her prominent researches is on teenagers’ perception of cultural films published in Q2 journal, as well as communication patterns of Indonesian diaspora in Q1 journal. The publication is one of the results of her hard work that she is most proud of.
Outside of academia, she has also written several books on communication, cultural experiences, and the English curriculum. Her time management skills, acquired from a young age, are key in balancing her various roles.“Whatever you feel, just wake up, dress up, and show up,” is her life motto.
To the alumni and students, Dr. Sri Seti Indriani advised, “Our weakness is the lack of strong character in doing good. TVF students are too humble, they should be more proud and brave to perform. Hopefully all students are better, bolder, and able to face problems well.”
With high dedication and commitment, Dr. Sri Seti Indriani continues to inspire and guide students to become people who are not only smart, but also have strong character. Her passion in educating and building the next generation is an example for all of us. (TDF)
