For many, storytelling is an art. For Katherine, it’s also a passion. Her journey from studying International Business Management (IBM) Global Class at BINUS University to working with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) shows how her passion, education, and empathy can come together to create global impact.

 

 

Experiencing the World Through BINUS Global Class

Katherine gained her global mindset through studying in the IBM Global Class. This was reflected in her experience as part of a diverse academic community, where she worked on international case studies with students from overseas universities, participated in cross-cultural group projects, and interacted with international partner institutions.

 

 

Her global outlook was further strengthened by a one-semester student exchange program at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) in Japan, supported by the JASSO scholarship. “Studying at APU was life-changing. It immersed me in a multicultural environment where I met students from all over the world. It taught me adaptability, open-mindedness, and empathy.”

 

 

Beyond academic experiences, Katherine also participated in other international events by being Liaison Officer (LO) during Asian Games 2018 when she interned at Indonesia Games Broadcast Services (IGBS), a role she earned through BINUS’ partnership with organizing committee. She also joined the Common Purpose Global Leader Experience, a program held at the General Electric (GE) office in Jakarta and included a site visit to Jakarta Smart City Office, where Katherine and others discussed real-world urban challenges with city officials.

 

 

From Campus to Career

Katherine revealed that all the international exposure she gained during her time in BINUS has helped her immensely. “The international exposure I gained played a key role in securing my first full-time job in a multinational company even before graduation, and later, in qualifying for my master’s degree under a fully funded scholarship.” she stated. Her experience here in IBM Global Class has prepared her to communicate effectively in international settings, collaborate across cultures and remain sensitive to different perspective.

 

 

She believes that the career prospects for IBM students are very strong, as they are trained to think globally and work effectively in multicultural environments. She added, “The curriculum in the IBM Global Class doesn’t just focus on traditional areas like export-import or international trade. It also covers a wide range of business functions such as marketing, human resources, business development, and strategic management. This broad foundation allows graduates to explore diverse career paths across industries, both in local and international contexts.”

 

A Passion Turned Purpose

Katherine revealed that she’s always been passionate about storytelling and using communication as a tool for social impact. She shared, “Working with UNHCR as Senior Communications Assistant gives me the opportunity to contribute to a global cause, supporting and advocating for refugees, while applying my skills in digital communication and public engagement. It aligns with both my personal values and professional goals.” This shaped Katherine’s career vision to excel in the field of global communication.

 

 

In her career, Katherine also faced challenges; navigating sensitive topics while ensuring the refugee voices are represented respectfully and ethically. “Working in a humanitarian context means we must always be mindful of dignity, protection, and cultural sensitivity,” she explained. Every story we tell and every image we share must respect the people we represent and ensure their safety and dignity are never compromised.” In the world of communication, balancing urgent crisis with long-term goals requires a great deal of agility and emotional resilience.

 

Advices, Tips, and Tricks

Katherine shared with us very important tips, they are;

  1. Don’t be afraid to try new things, even if you might fail. “Success isn’t a straight path; it’s about consistently showing up and learning from each step, including the setbacks.” She stated.
  2. Never underestimate the power of kindness and humility

Katherine believes in any field, especially in a place where there are diverse backgrounds, being kind and grounded can lead into new doors that hard skills alone cannot. “My former professor that I met during my exchange time once wrote me an email that I still remembered until now: “Katherine, a person a like you, who cares about other’s feelings, will be successful in the future. GUARANTEED.”

She also shared with us a very important messages, “Don’t wait for the perfect moment—dream big, start where you are, with what you have.”