Thirteen doctoral students from the 2025 cohort of the Media and Cultural Studies (KBM) Study Program participated in a field trip to Rumah Atsiri and Grojogan Sewu Waterfall in Karanganyar Regency, Central Java. Held on Saturday (15/8), the activity was designed as a practical field observation of social media prosumption and spatial consumption. The field trip also provided a welcome break and refreshment for students who are about to enter a more intensive stage of their doctoral studies: the proposal seminar.
At Rumah Atsiri, the students, lecturers, and Study Program administrators participating in the field trip learned about various plants that can be utilized in the development of perfume and essential oil commodities. They also observed the process of distilling flowers and herbs to produce essential oils, which can subsequently be processed into various types of products.
After leaving Rumah Atsiri and having lunch, the participants continued their journey to Grojogan Sewu Waterfall. In recent months, the tourist destination has reportedly experienced a decline in visitor numbers due to the emergence of numerous new tourist destinations around the Tawangmangu area, limited innovation and promotion, as well as allegations of illegal levies. After descending more than 100 steps, the participants were rewarded with a refreshing view of the waterfall. After enjoying the scenery and soaking their tired feet in the cool river water, they returned to the bus by taking an open-air shuttle truck along a winding, uphill road that provided an adrenaline-filled experience.
The activity not only enriched the students’ experience through learning outside the classroom, but also fostered camaraderie and strengthened bonds among the students.
