Alumni Profile: Dr. Adi Sutrisno, M.A.

Pictured here is Pak Adi (left) with Eli Fisher, Shansi Fellow at UGM, ‘16-’18.

Dr. Adi Sutrisno — better known as Pak Adi to generations of Yogya Shansi Fellows — is chair of the Faculty for Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada, one of the most renowned universities in Southeast Asia and a Shansi partner since 1974. We were excited to catch up with him about new professional developments, including his role as the Head of the English Studies Association of Indonesia, and to revisit his time as a Shansi Visiting Scholar in Oberlin in 2001.

Pak Adi, just recently, you were named the Head of the English Studies Association in Indonesia (ESAI). What does that mean to you and what are your goals for leading ESAI?

Becoming the Head of an association is a tremendous honor and responsibility. It signifies the trust and confidence that the members have placed in me to lead and represent their interests. To me, it means a commitment to serve the collective goals and aspirations of our association, working tirelessly to foster a sense of community, collaboration, and progress, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. Being Head of the association is also a privilege that goes beyond personal achievements. It's about serving and empowering others, leading by example, and leaving a positive legacy for future generations. I am humbled by this opportunity and fully committed to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to me by our members.

A lot of your recent scholarship has explored language use and subtitling practices for popular American movies and TV shows. What drew you to popular culture in your research, like analyzing movies like The Wolf of Wall Street and Star Trek?

Popular culture, including films and TV shows, plays a significant role in shaping public discourse and reflecting societal values. These forms of entertainment have a wide reach and are consumed by diverse audiences around the world. By examining the language used in these mediums and the subtleties of subtitling, we can gain valuable insights into cultural nuances, linguistic variations, and the translation of ideas across different languages.

Moreover, analyzing popular culture allows us to explore how language is employed to convey meaning, evoke emotions, and shape narratives. Movies like The Wolf of Wall Street and Star Trek offer compelling case studies for examining linguistic strategies, character development, and the portrayal of cultural identities. By delving into these examples, we can better understand how language operates within the context of storytelling and how it influences our perceptions and interpretations.

Pak Adi (far left) here with a group of faculty and staff at UGM, with Teresa Tippens (UGM Shansi Fellow 2015-17).

You've been a long-time supporter and mentor for many Shansi Fellows. What has changed over the many years, in your view, about how Shansi Fellows understand and interact with Yogyakarta and UGM?

Having been a long-time supporter and mentor for Oberlin Fellows in UGM, I have witnessed significant changes in how they understand and interact with Yogyakarta and UGM over the years. It has been a mutually enriching journey of cultural exchange and learning.

One of the key changes I've noticed is a deeper appreciation for the unique characteristics and strengths of Yogyakarta. Oberlin Fellows have gradually moved beyond the surface-level attractions and begun to explore the city's hidden gems, connect with local communities, and engage in meaningful cultural exchanges. This shift has fostered a greater understanding of our city's history, values, and challenges.

In terms of their interaction with the university, there has been an evolution towards more meaningful engagement and collaboration. Oberlin Fellows have recognized the importance of building genuine connections with local faculty, staff, and students. They actively seek opportunities to contribute to the university community, whether through volunteering or cultural events. This increased interaction has not only benefited the Oberlin Fellows in terms of their “local academic values” pursuits, but has also enriched the overall university experience for all involved.

Moreover, I have witnessed a growing sense of reciprocity in the relationship between Oberlin Fellows and us. They are more inclined to share their own knowledge, experiences, and cultural perspectives, leading to a deeper understanding and mutual respect. This has created a more inclusive and diverse environment within our university, fostering a sense of global citizenship and interconnectedness.

You were a Shansi Visiting Scholar in 2001 and lived at Shansi House for a semester. What surprised you most about living in Oberlin and campus life at the college? 

One of the most surprising aspects of living in Oberlin and campus life at college has been the incredible diversity and vibrant community that I've encountered. Coming from a different place, I wasn't fully prepared for the richness and variety of cultures, ideas, and perspectives that existed here.

Another surprising aspect has been the range of opportunities that campus life offers. From clubs and organizations to academic resources and extracurricular activities, there seems to be something for everyone. I was pleasantly surprised by the sheer number of ways I could get involved and pursued my interests beyond the classroom (even though I only observed classes). Whether it's participating in student-led initiatives, attending workshops, or taking part in campus events, there's always something happening that fosters personal growth, leadership development, and a sense of community. I myself attended classes taught by Prof. Linda Gates and Prof. Jan Cooper, and I was amazed with the way they approached their students.

Furthermore, I was amazed by the support and mentorship available on campus. Pak Carl Jacobson and Ibu Deborah Cocco were definitely the mentors who genuinely cared about my success and guided me in navigating the challenges of college life. This supportive environment made the transition to living in the city and adapting to college much smoother than I anticipated.

Overall, the dynamic and inclusive nature of Oberlin and campus life was the most pleasant surprise for me. It enriched my college experience, broadened my horizons, and provided countless opportunities for personal and academic growth.

 How do you think being a Visiting Scholar in Oberlin changed how you worked at UGM after your semester in 2001?

Being a Visiting Scholar at Oberlin College in the USA in 2001 was a transformative experience for me, particularly due to the tragic events of 9/11 that occurred during my time there. Witnessing such a significant event firsthand had a profound impact on me and shaped the way I approached my work at my home university after that semester.

Pak Adi carves a pumpkin for Halloween.

First and foremost, the tragedy of 9/11 made me acutely aware of the importance of global collaboration and understanding. It highlighted the need for cross-cultural dialogue and cooperation in addressing complex challenges. As a result, I became more committed to fostering international partnerships and promoting cultural exchange within my academic work.

Moreover, the experience deepened my understanding of the impact of global events on local contexts. It made me more attuned to the interconnectedness of the world and the need to consider diverse perspectives and experiences in my research and teaching. I started incorporating more global perspectives and addressing topics related to intercultural understanding and peace building in my work.

The tragedy also motivated me to contribute to a more inclusive and tolerant environment within my university. It prompted me to actively engage in discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion, both in the classroom and in collaborative projects. I became more invested in creating spaces where diverse voices could be heard, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding among students and colleagues.

Furthermore, the experience served as a reminder of the resilience and strength of communities in times of adversity. It inspired me to emphasize the importance of social cohesion and community engagement in my teaching and research. I sought to explore ways in which academia could contribute to the well-being and development of local communities, using my work to address societal challenges and promote positive change.