Creative Writing Goes Wild: Galang Ikhwan Aji Sabda & Rinda Aunillah Take Students to Pangandaran Nature Reserve Pananjung

Pangandaran, Januari 24, 2025 –Galang Ikhwan Aji Sabda, a lecturer in the Communication Science Study Program (Ilkom) at Universitas Padjadjaran PSDKU Pangandaran, in collaboration with fellow lecturer Rinda Aunillah, led first-semester students in an immersive learning experience at the Pangandaran Nature Reserve. This activity was part of the Creative Writing course, designed to encourage students to draw inspiration from direct field observations.

The learning experience began with an exploration of the reserve’s diverse ecosystems, guided by local conservation staff who introduced the group to its unique flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. Throughout the visit, students were tasked with observing details, taking field notes, and capturing visual elements to later develop into creative narratives.

According to Galang, combining environmental immersion with storytelling practice helps students develop stronger descriptive skills and establish a deeper emotional connection to their writing. “Nature provides an endless source of inspiration. By stepping outside the classroom, students can experience the sights, sounds, and feelings that bring a story to life,” he explained.

Rinda Aunillah added that the activity also cultivates critical awareness of environmental conservation. “Creative writing can be a powerful medium to raise awareness about biodiversity and sustainability. By experiencing the reserve firsthand, students can convey these values in ways that truly resonate with audiences,” she said.

One of the participants, RF, expressed her enthusiasm: “Seeing the wildlife and hearing the history of the reserve gave me so many fresh ideas. I feel more confident about creating stories that feel authentic and relatable.”

This initiative directly supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, by integrating innovative, experiential learning methods, and Goal 15: Life on Land, by promoting appreciation for and preservation of biodiversity.

With this successful collaboration, Ilkom PSDKU Unpad aims to continue bridging academic learning with real-world experiences, fostering a generation of communicators who are both creative and socially responsible (GIAS).