Building a career at a global communications agency is a journey successfully undertaken by Muhammad Gustiasa, an alumnus of the Communication Science Study Program, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) at Diponegoro University, class of 2012. Currently, Gustiasa holds the trusted position of the youngest Director at Edelman Indonesia within the Corporate and Public Affairs division, a strategic role in one of the world’s largest and most influential communication consulting firms. This achievement underscores the role of Undip Communication Science alumni within the global communications industry landscape.

Gustiasa’s journey to the director level at Edelman did not happen overnight. He began it with a strong passion for learning, an open mind, and the courage to engage directly in the field. His professional career started at the internship level, which he secured as a result of participating in a Public Relations competition while still a student. In that competition, he compiled a PR proposal in just one night—an experience that shaped a work ethic of speed, adaptability, and solution-oriented thinking, which is highly demanded in the world of communication consulting.

Working in a global consulting environment accustomed Gustiasa to handling real and complex cases, ranging from corporate issues and public interests to the ever-changing dynamics of stakeholders. According to him, working at a global communications agency demands an open mind, a continuous desire to learn, and the ability to deeply understand context. Each project is not merely an assignment but a learning space to hone sensitivity, strategy, and sharpness in communication analysis.

As a global communications consultant, Gustiasa adheres to three main principles that form the foundation of his professionalism. First, a growth mindset and curiosity to continuously learn and absorb new ideas. Second, the pursuit of excellence, by being fully present and mindful in every project undertaken. Third, integrity and correct conduct, which involves upholding values and ethics amidst the fast-paced and competitive dynamics of the communications industry.

This strong foundation was built during Gustiasa’s education in Communication Science at FISIP Undip. He recalls his university days as a phase that significantly shaped his work readiness, as students were not only equipped with theory but also trained through client-based projects, such as courses in social change campaigns and public relations campaign practices that always began with research. This learning model is considered highly relevant to the needs of the global communications industry, especially in terms of project management and strategic decision-making.

Collaborative experiences with lecturers also form an important part of Gustiasa’s alumni story. During his studies, he actively participated in research discussions with lecturers, from brainstorming ideas and data processing to constructing conceptual frameworks. Lecturers acted as learning partners who provided positive affirmation, support, and constructive dialogue spaces. This collaborative academic environment built the self-confidence and critical thinking skills crucial in the professional world.

Gustiasa believes that every academic assignment, even those that seem simple, always contains valuable lessons. Through these tasks, students learn about attitude, responsibility, time management, and how to manage workloads. A principle he still holds today is “just start first, there will always be a way,” a reflection of the growth mindset he developed since his university days.

For Communication Science students aspiring to build careers at global communications agencies, Gustiasa advises them to keep asking questions, get to know themselves, and understand their personal strengths. He encourages students not to compare themselves to others but to focus on their respective career paths. The IKIGAI approach can serve as a guide to aligning interests, abilities, opportunities, and life goals, making career journeys more meaningful and sustainable.

He also emphasizes the importance of mastering competencies in a balanced manner, encompassing both hard and soft skills. Research capabilities to understand client needs, project management skills in setting priorities, and the ability to connect theory with practice are primary assets. On the other hand, creative thinking and street smarts help Communication Science graduates adapt to dynamic field realities.

Furthermore, Gustiasa sees great potential in the network of Communication Science alumni from FISIP Undip, who are spread across various sectors and industries. He encourages the updating of alumni data and the strengthening of segmented alumni programs, such as those for the private sector, entrepreneurs, and consultants. This step is seen as a way to open more collaboration opportunities for students and strengthen the role of alumni as part of the learning and career development ecosystem at FISIP Undip.