Tag: University of Sumatera Utara

A group of Social Anthropology students from the University of Sumatera Utara (USU) has been carrying out a fieldwork program in Samosir Regency, North Sumatra, Indonesia, from September 15 to October 10, 2025. During this period, they are developing a social cartography technique to map waste disposal and accumulation points in public areas such as bridges, waterfronts, markets, and bus terminals.

 

According to one of the students, Andreadi Simanjuntak, the project aims not only to identify waste hotspots but also to explore the socio-cultural factors behind community behavior regarding waste. The resulting waste maps are expected to serve as a strategic reference for the District Environmental Agency in placing proper waste management facilities.

 

He further explained that the main mapping sites include areas frequently visited by residents and tourists, traditional markets, bus terminals, and several elementary schools. Through social cartography, the “social footprint” of waste is traced using ethnographic observation, providing insights into community habits, norms, and interactions related to waste disposal. The next step, he said, is to develop educational initiatives addressing these findings.

Head of the Social Anthropology Department, Dr. Irfan Simanjuntak, emphasized that this fieldwork program is designed not only for students to learn directly from the community but also to create impactful interventions—aligning with the current tagline of the Ministry of Research.

Medan, October 3, 2025 – Students in Medan, with the support of PTPN as the main sponsor, present “Let it Out Project”, an initiative aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding psychological consultations while providing a space for students and the community to openly share their personal issues.

The event was held on Friday, October 3, 2025, featuring Jeffry, S.Psi., M.Psi., CHt., a certified professional psychologist, who guided participants through personal consultation sessions. The activity was divided into two sessions, from 09:00–14:00 WIB, with the first session in the morning and the second session in the afternoon.

Collaboration with a Professional Psychologist

Jeffry, S.Psi., M.Psi., CHt., is a licensed psychologist who completed his Master’s degree in Professional Psychology at the University of Sumatera Utara (USU). He also holds a Hypnotherapy Certification from IMDHA-USA and is registered as a member of the Indonesian Psychology Association (HIMPSI). His legitimacy and professionalism are evidenced by his Psychologist Practice License (SIPP No: 20230415-2023-01-2665). With a strong educational background and certifications, Jeffry ensures the quality of psychological services provided at this event.

Let it Out Project is committed to providing accessible psychological services to students and the community, particularly for those who still feel hesitant or burdened to seek professional help. The event limited participation to only 10 individuals to ensure each person receives full attention in a more intimate and personal atmosphere.

Providing a Space to Talk

This activity was motivated by the fact that many students remain reluctant to seek psychological help due to negative stigma. Psychological consultation is often perceived as only necessary for those considered “unable to handle problems.” However, speaking with a professional can be extremely helpful in managing emotions and facing life’s challenges.

“Many people feel doubtful or even reluctant to seek psychological help, when in fact talking to a professional is very beneficial for organizing one’s feelings and facing life’s challenges. Psychological consultation is not only for those facing major problems, but also for anyone who wants to better understand themselves and find solutions to everyday issues,” said Jeffry, S.Psi., M.Psi., CHt., the psychologist facilitating this event.

The Chief Organizer, Ariq Ismail, stated that Let it Out Project aims to facilitate students’ access to psychological services without fear or shame. “We realize that many students feel anxious about asking for help or don’t know where to turn. Through this event, we hope they can have a space to talk while receiving guidance from a professional psychologist,” Ariq expressed.

Participant Testimonial

One participant who attended this session (name withheld upon request) shared positive feedback about their experience: “AMAZING! I became more capable of addressing my problems. Thank you so much!”

Let it Out Project not only focuses on personal consultations but also opens opportunities for students and the community to express their feelings without fear of judgment. With an exclusive concept that prioritizes quality over quantity, this program accommodated only 10 selected participants in one session.

This program serves as a concrete example of synergy between academia and the industrial sector in providing tangible solutions to mental health issues experienced by students and the wider community.