New Connections and Friendships at ICAS 13
2024 is definitely a standout for me. I had the amazing chance to be part of the core committee for the 13th International Convention of Asia Scholars (ICAS) in Surabaya. Being involved in this event wasn’t just about meeting new friends and colleagues – it was also an essential step in building my skills and experience. As a committee member, I worked hands-on with the coordination, from planning and organizing logistics to making sure everything ran smoothly during the sessions involving scholars around the globe (over 60 countries, can you imagine?). This really helped me to improve my communication skills across different cultures, the ability to work with various teams and enhance my management skills.
One particularly unforgettable moment was when I had the chance to meet Nicholas Prévot, a music researcher from France. During our conversation, I learned that he had won the prestigious ICAS Book Prize (IBP) French Language Edition 2023. We delved into a fascinating discussion about music, particularly traditional Asian music, and he generously shared his broad insights on how music reflects both the social and spiritual character of nations across Asia. This exact moment not only broadened my perspective on the study of music but inspired me to explore cross-cultural music studies further, too. That kind of experience absolutely provided me with invaluable lessons, deepening my understanding of academic dynamics while connecting me with a broader network in the global academic community. ICAS 13 will remain a cornerstone in both my personal and professional journey.
After all, I couldn’t be more thankful for my amazing colleagues at IIAS! Their support and teamwork made the whole experience so much more enjoyable. With their dedication, brilliant ideas, and great sense of humor, we didn’t just pull off a successful event – we created a tight-knit, fun-loving friendship that I’ll always treasure.