FRACTIONS OF LIFE

On April 3rd, during the Eid holiday break, I found myself standing above one of Java’s hidden gems—Karang Payung Beach. With its soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waves, and a pristine stretch of shoreline, this place felt like a private paradise carved away from the world. The beach is tucked beneath lush cliffs, with natural rock formations creating a dramatic view that invites you to pause and just breathe in the beauty. It’s not a crowded destination, which makes it perfect for those seeking peace and solitude amidst nature. The waves rolled in rhythmically, crashing gently against the rocks, while the bright blue sky met the vast ocean on the horizon. This was the kind of view that made the Eid holiday feel even more meaningful—a moment of reflection and quiet joy, far from the bustle of everyday life. If you're looking for a tranquil getaway in southern Java, Karang Payung is a must-visit. Just be prepared for a bit of a hike down—but the vie...

The Leadership Project Course in the PPG Pre-service 2024 program at Unimus  ppg.unimus.ac.id included a community service project aimed at equipping high school students at Muhammadiyah Orphanage Tlogosari with English CV writing and interview skills. As a primary component of the course, this project was conducted through two training sessions on February 22 and March 9, which I supervised. The first session focused on CV writing, covering key aspects such as education, skills, and experience. The participants learned how to structure their CVs effectively for future job or scholarship applications. The second session was dedicated to English interview training, where they practiced responding to common interview questions, enhancing their confidence and communication skills. This initiative provided practical knowledge that will help them navigate future academic and professional opportunities. As the supervisor, I am happy to see that the project was executed successfully.

Dulce et Utile: A Quiet Reflection on Our Mustard Yellow Attire In our English Literature program at Unimus , we have a cherished piece of attire—not an official uniform, but a garment reserved for special moments. Its warm mustard yellow hue and the inscription “Dulce et Utile” serve as a gentle reminder: life, like literature, should be both sweet and useful. Each time we wear this outfit, it invites us to pause and reflect. It’s a subtle prompt to blend beauty with purpose in all we do—a quiet nudge to appreciate the simple, yet profound, moments of our shared journey. Do you have a symbol or word that helps you reconnect with what truly matters? 

 This photo marks a reflective moment in my academic journey. Featured on the "Lecturer’s Achievements" wall, alongside my esteemed colleagues, I’m humbled to be acknowledged for my contributions over the past 9 years. While my accomplishments may not yet be among the highest, each step represents progress, growth, and dedication to my role as an educator and researcher. The recognition is a reminder that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a greater purpose—to inspire, educate, and make a difference. Being surrounded by colleagues who excel in their fields motivates me to strive further and embrace new challenges. Their stories of perseverance and success encourage me to keep pushing boundaries and seeking opportunities to grow academically and professionally. To my students, colleagues, and peers, let this serve as a reminder that the journey of achievement is not about reaching perfection but about making consistent strides towards our goals. Together, we can...

After landing in Jakarta on the morning of November 29, 2024, I had a few hours to spare before my meeting at PFN (Perum Produksi Film Negara). I decided to take a quick detour to the National Library, and this time, I was with Pak Budi, which made the visit even more enjoyable.

After several days of continuous rain in Semarang, the morning of November 29, 2024, finally greeted us with clear skies. The air was cool as I headed to the airport for my 07:00 AM flight to Jakarta, a nice little break before diving into my busy schedule in the capital. As the plane took off, I couldn't help but glance out the window. The sky was absolutely clear, with soft blue gradients meeting wisps of white clouds. Below, the ocean stretched out, calm and vast, reflecting the sky above like a giant mirror. Here and there, small islands popped up from the water, like green dots breaking up the endless sea of deep blue. The morning light was warm, yet not blinding, and from above, I could spot little boats moving slowly across the water, as if they too were savoring the peaceful start to the day. After days of rain, this clear sky felt like the perfect way to begin a flight—simple, serene, and refreshing.

Yunita Nugraheni and I created "Contemporary Literary Studies" as a comprehensive guide to modern literature for students, researchers, and educators. Published in 2021 by Unimus Press, the book reflects our dedication to making contemporary literary analysis accessible and engaging. We explore themes and genres of modern literature, offering both theoretical frameworks and practical tools. To bridge theory and application, we included examples, case studies, and questions to spark critical thinking. Highlighting diverse voices and cultures, we aimed to connect readers with the global human experience through literature. Working with Yunita was enriching, as her insights brought depth to the book. Since its release, it has become a valued resource in classrooms and libraries, and hearing how it has inspired readers has been deeply rewarding. Discover "Contemporary Literary Studies" on Google Books or through Unimus Press. I look forward to your feedback!