Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary-General, once said, "To live is to choose. But to choose well, you must know who you are and what you stand for." He embodies many things that I deeply admire: unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and ethical diplomacy. He showed that leadership is not just about authority, but about responsibility, protecting human dignity, listening to those unheard, and standing up for what is right even when it's difficult. What inspires me most is how he used diplomacy not only to end conflicts, but to promote education, reduce poverty, and encourage international development. Like Annan, I hope to be someone who listens with intention, bridges differences with empathy, and uses international relations as a tool for long-term, positive change. I believe peace is not just the absence of war, it’s the presence of inclusion, equal opportunity, and meaningful cooperation.

To many people, International Relations might sound like something that only happens at the United Nations or in big diplomatic meetings. But to me, it’s much more than that. It’s a door through which we understand how the world works,how decisions are made, how they affect communities, and how we can contribute to a more peaceful, fair, and united world. Although I didn’t join Model UN in high school, I chose to explore this field in my own way by attending public seminars, engaging in discussions with people from different cultures, and learning about international systems, political climates, and government processes through real conversations. These experiences showed me that diplomacy isn’t just about speaking, it’s about listening, understanding, and finding common ground.

My passion for international relations didn’t grow out of textbooks. It grew out of real-life moments where I saw how connection can create impact. Through CISV, I facilitated youth-led activities that brought together people from different cultural backgrounds, teaching me that even laughter and games can create bridges. I’ve spoken at community events to raise awareness about environmental issues, and I helped organize a beach clean up project that brought people of all ages together for a shared goal. Volunteering with kids in Braga was one of the most eye-opening experiences. We painted, played, and shared stories, and I saw how simply showing up and being present can make someone feel seen. These small acts, though local, reflected something much bigger: the belief that change starts with empathy, and that when people feel empowered, they can become part of something greater than themselves. 

The International Relations Department at Universitas Katolik Parahyangan stood out to me because of how it blends academic depth with hands-on learning. I’m especially drawn to Unpar’s emphasis on global governance, peace and conflict resolution, and Southeast Asian regional studies, areas I care deeply about and hope to explore further. I’m excited by opportunities like the student exchange program, which I see as a way to challenge myself, learn from new environments, and gain broader perspectives. I also look forward to joining student organizations like Unpar MUN, where I hope to sharpen my public speaking and negotiation skills while building meaningful connections with people from all over the world. I believe Unpar is not just a place to study. It’s a place to grow into a more thoughtful, globally-minded person. And that’s the kind of student and future changemaker, I strive to be.