Semarang – Central Java (11/12). David Farella Christhoper Marsono, commonly known as David, is a student at UNDIP who has a deep interest in the world of tourism. For him, tourism is a realm closely aligned with his lifelong fascination for the beauty of nature. Pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Science at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro, the 2022 cohort student shared that during the Covid-19 pandemic, he witnessed firsthand the considerable impact and decline in Indonesia’s tourism sector. It was during this period that he resolved to contribute actively to the field of tourism, moving beyond mere enjoyment. His efforts bore fruit this year as David achieved the Runner-Up position in the 2023 National Tourism Prince Contest, titled Prince of Pesona Indonesia 2023.

“My journey into the pageant industry began in 2020 when I represented Central Java in the Mister Tourism Teen Indonesia 2020 pageant, where I secured the position of 7th Finalist in Mister Tourism Teen Indonesia 2020 and was awarded Mister Tourism Teen Indonesia Congeniality 2020. Subsequently, in 2021, I decided to return to my hometown and participated in the Mr. and Ms. Tourism Ambassador Selection for Sukoharjo Regency 2021, earning the title of Favorite Mr. Sukoharjo 2021. The journey continued in 2023 when I was entrusted to represent the Communication Science department in the Mr. and Ms. FISIP Undip 2023 selection, where I secured a spot as one of the TOP 5 Mr. FISIP Undip 2023. Feeling unsatisfied, I decided to join the selection for the 2023 Central Java Tourism Prince, and later, represented Central Java in the 2023 National Tourism Prince and Princess Contest. In that competition, I successfully secured the position of Runner-Up as the Prince of Indonesia 2023,” expressed David during his interview with the UNDIP Public Relations team. Additionally, in the 2023 National Tourism Prince and Princess Contest, David also attained several accolades including the title of Prince of National Tourism for Culture 2023 and Prince of National Tourism for Best National Costume 2023.

The FISIP Undip student acknowledged that his path in the 2023 National Tourism Prince and Princess Contest was fraught with challenges and certainly not an easy feat. However, he expressed deep gratitude as both his parents consistently supported his journey. The investment required was substantial and mainly funded personally.

“Throughout this journey, there were individuals attempting to undermine my morale through cyberbullying. In pageant competitions, we are also required to possess skills in Public Speaking, Catwalk, and advocate for a cause. The preparation lasted approximately a month, and thankfully, on the final night, all of it paid off with the acquisition of titles that I am immensely proud of,” stated David.

David urged fellow students to collectively advance UNDIP’s tourism, citing the recent viral phenomenon of Bukit Diponegoro as a potential tourist attraction within UNDIP. He emphasized, “We have the capacity to contribute to our beloved University. As students, our steps can commence by contributing achievements from various fields, creating with the creativity we possess, and dedicating ourselves to other aspects that our peers might possess.” (Titis-Public Relations)

Source: undip.ac.id