The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FISIP USU), continues to encourage the strengthening of student capacity through academic activities and character development. One such initiative was realized through the implementation of FGD x LOL 2025, organized by IMAJINASI of the Department of Communication Science, involving Communication Science students from the 2025 cohort.

This activity was designed as a participatory learning space that integrates academic discussion and leadership practice. Students took part in a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) themed “Gastrodiplomacy: Exploring Gastrodiplomacy as the Art of Communication Beyond Words.” The theme was selected to broaden students’ understanding of cross-cultural communication through a contextual approach closely connected to everyday life.

The Chair of the Organizing Committee, M. Khalish, a Communication Science student from the 2023 cohort, explained that gastrodiplomacy was chosen because it represents one of the simplest yet most universal forms of communication. According to him, food is not merely a consumer product, but a medium of communication capable of conveying values, narratives, and cultural identity without relying on verbal language.

As Communication Science students, participants were encouraged to recognize that communication messages are not conveyed solely through words or formal rhetoric, but also through symbols, gestures, and sensory experiences such as taste. Through the concept of gastrodiplomacy, students learned how a country builds its image, influences public perception, and opens spaces for international dialogue through subtle and inclusive cultural approaches.

The discussion became even more meaningful with the participation of a representative from the Consulate General of India, who provided direct insights into the practice of gastrodiplomacy in international relations. This interaction enriched students’ perspectives by presenting real-world experiences that are not always accessible through classroom learning.

Following the FGD session, the activity continued with Leadership Out Loud (LOL), a series of programs focused on character building and student leadership development. While the FGD emphasized conceptual understanding of global communication, LOL was designed as a practical space that prioritized experiential learning.

Through this activity, students were trained to make quick decisions, build teamwork, manage group dynamics, and understand the rhythm of interpersonal communication. The process offered authentic leadership experiences, where students not only learned theory but also confronted challenges, dynamics, and responsibilities directly.

The Chair of the Organizing Committee emphasized that LOL serves as an important platform for cultivating applied leadership. Through this activity, students learned that communication is not merely about speaking and listening, but also about understanding situations, responding appropriately, and leading with empathy and collective awareness.

For FISIP USU, FGD x LOL 2025 was not only a student development activity, but also part of the institution’s commitment to creating a learning ecosystem that balances academic strengthening and character formation. This initiative encourages students to become critical, adaptive communicators who are prepared to face communication challenges at both national and global levels.

Through the integration of scholarly discussion and experiential learning, FISIP USU hopes that Communication Science students will understand that communication plays a strategic role in shaping relationships, influencing perceptions, and leading change, both in local and international contexts.