“A Platform for Expression and Aspirations” was the theme adopted by the Student Executive Board (BEM) of the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Sebelas Maret (FEB UNS), during a dialogue session titled Bincang-Bincang Fakultas (BBF-Faculty Dialogue). The event took place on Thursday, October 31, 2024, in the Suhardi Hall at FEB UNS. Attended by faculty leadership, heads of undergraduate programs, department heads, sub-department heads, academic support staff for student affairs, and representatives from FEB student organizations, this forum served as a channel for FEB students to voice their concerns and suggestions directly to faculty leadership.

The evaluation presented by BEM through BBF plays a crucial role in assessing and improving both the quality and accessibility of student services at FEB UNS. The feedback gathered during this event also serves as a key consideration for faculty leadership in shaping future policies at FEB UNS.

Prior to the dialogue, BEM conducted a service satisfaction survey covering four key areas: academic services, student affairs, facilities and infrastructure, and financial services. The survey was conducted from September 29 to October 13, 2024, through Google Forms, with 126 FEB UNS students participating. The sampling method used was simple random sampling to ensure broad representation of the student body.

In his opening remarks, Surya Azhar, President of BEM, emphasized that “A Platform for Expression and Aspirations” was chosen as the central theme for the second BBF of the year. He highlighted the importance of student concerns being communicated to faculty leadership and academic programs to create alignment and cooperation between students and the faculty. This collaboration, he explained, helps foster a more comfortable and productive academic environment.  “BBF serves as a space for students to share their thoughts and express their needs. We hope this encourages more students to actively voice their opinions to the faculty,” he stated.

Vice Dean for Student Affairs and Alumni, Tastaftiyan Risfandy, S.E., M.Sc., Ph.D., expressed his appreciation for BEM’s initiative in organizing BBF, noting that faculty leadership also benefits from student input. He suggested that before conducting future surveys, BEM should consult with faculty leadership to ensure the results truly represent the aspirations of the entire FEB student body. He also proposed holding BBF sessions in the afternoon to allow more students to participate.

Meanwhile, Vice Dean for Academic Affairs and Research, Prof. Tri Mulyaningsih, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D., responded to several survey findings and advised students on how to present their aspirations effectively. “Students should speak up, but it is important to do so with respect, ethics, and well-structured arguments. Stay composed when addressing concerns and always consider ethical boundaries. Instead of expressing frustration emotionally, focus on proposing solutions. As students, you should uphold your integrity. Criticism does not have to be delivered with anger or hostility,” she advised.

She further encouraged students to adopt an intellectual approach when raising concerns, such as conducting research or publishing well-written pieces in appropriate media channels. According to her, this method increases the likelihood of their voices being heard.

The BBF event ran without issues, providing students with the opportunity to share their thoughts, receive direct responses, and gain guidance from faculty leadership in attendance.