UNAIR NEWS Aasim Ahmad Khan son of Dr Sirbiland Khan, interest in the visual world began with graphic design, which he developed into motion graphics. Through this process, he realised that creative work cannot stand alone but requires strategy, research, and effective communication to make an impact. He deepened this understanding while pursuing a Master’s degree in Media and Communication at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) at 51动漫 (UNAIR). Today, this FISIP UNAIR alumnus works as a Graphic Specialist at Muhima Digital in Saudi Arabia.
Khan possesses both academic qualifications and professional experience in the field of creative media. 淚 have experience in visual communication, filmmaking, photography, and design. Additionally, I have some professional experience in content production, branding, and creative media works, he stated.
Strengthening communication strategies
Khan chose the Master Degree of Media and Communication programme at FISIP UNAIR because he wanted to deepen his academic understanding. 淚 want to deepen my understanding of media communication strategies and research-based analysis. The programme suits my interests in modern communication and media development, he explained.
As an international student from Pakistan, he admitted that he had a very positive first impression of Indonesia and UNAIR. The friendly campus environment, diverse culture, and supportive lecturers and students made it easy for him to adapt. 淭he interactive classes and discussions with my lecturers, such as Prof Dr Ratih Puspa, Dr Irfan Wahyudi, Dr Yuyun Wahyu Izzati, Prof Dra Rachmah Ida, Prof Titik, and Dr Suko Widodo, Mas Arry, were truly meaningful for me. I am also very grateful to my classmates who supported me despite the language barrier, Mr Lukman, Mr Fawaid, Mas Mr Bayu, Zahra, Rahma, Radifa, Onisca Vazaha, and Alfina were incredibly helpful, he said.
One of the most memorable experiences for Khan was the cultural exchange programme in Semarang facilitated by Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE). There, he had the opportunity to discuss with students from various countries and explore cultural exchange between nations.
Research that changes his perspectives
Khan wrote a thesis entitled Navigating Public Relations Practices in Pakistani Startups: Key Insights, Challenges, and Localised Strategic Approaches. The research discusses how startups in Pakistan carry out public relations practices, the challenges they face, and strategic approaches that are appropriate to the local context. 淭his thesis research changed my mindset from initially focusing only on creative work to becoming more strategic and analytical, he said.
Through this research, he understood that building public trust and brand reputation requires more than just attractive visuals. It requires an understanding of audience behaviour, media challenges, and clear and measurable communication objectives.
His academic experience in interactive classes at FISIP UNAIR also helped strengthen his ability to compose messages, design campaigns, and think based on research. He admitted that the discussions he had with lecturers and friends from other countries helped shape his new global perspective.
Strategy, portfolio, and global networking
Interestingly, he did not get his job opportunity in Saudi Arabia by chance. He makes a very comprehensive plan, conducted specific market research, targeting the Riyadh area, identifying companies, and then contacting company leaders through LinkedIn by sending his portfolio. 淔ocus on your goals, do a lot of research, and be bold in making decisions, he said.
For Khan, students aspiring to an international career must combine technical skills with cross-cultural adaptability. A strong portfolio, practical experience, and professional networks are key to competing in the global market.
At the end of the interview, he also expressed his appreciation to Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE) for giving him the opportunity to pursue a master檚 degree in media and communication. He also hopes to have the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree at UNAIR in the future.
Author: Tsabita Nuha Zahidah
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
