UNAIR NEWS – Sulih Indra Dewi, a third-year doctoral student in Social Sciences at Universitas Airlangga, exemplifies how the role of a mother can coexist with the pursuit of higher education. As a mother of two, she proudly identifies herself as “a mom on a PhD journey”—a title that reflects both personal and academic determination.
Her participation in the “Inclusion of Talented Young Scientists in Research” program at the University of Warsaw, Poland, marked a significant milestone. Over the course of two months, she conducted research under the mentorship of Professor Aneta Ostaszewska from the Faculty of Applied Social Sciences and Resocialization. Drawn to gender and women’s studies, Dewi found an immediate connection with her mentor. “Even through initial email exchanges, I felt we shared common values and visions in our research,” she said.
Prof. Aneta even welcomed her in person at the airport, guided her around the campus environment, and offered a warm message: “Your research is important, but I also want you to enjoy your stay, explore Poland, and learn its culture.” That welcome set the tone for a deeply enriching academic and cultural experience.
The decision to travel abroad was not without emotional challenges. As Dewi shared, “The greatest challenge wasn’t just the distance—it was preparing my heart to be away from my family.” Yet the unwavering support of her husband and children gave her the strength to embrace this opportunity wholeheartedly.
During her stay, she navigated daily life in a new environment—from learning how to use public transportation to coping with unfamiliar language barriers. Digital tools like Google Maps and Google Translate proved helpful, though she humorously noted, “I still carried a paper map—somehow, moms trust the old-fashioned ways more.”
One of the most memorable moments was her first visit to BUW (Biblioteka Uniwersytecka w Warszawie), a stunning European-style library with spacious reading halls and a rooftop garden. “It truly symbolizes the spirit of scholarship,” she remarked. Discussions with fellow PhD students and access to international literature enriched both her academic insight and research perspectives.
Beyond academic achievement, this journey has been a personal triumph. “When women gain access to higher education, they are not only building a future for themselves but also becoming agents of change in their communities,” Dewi affirmed.
Her story is a powerful reminder that mothers, women, and all those nurturing dreams have the capacity to grow and lead. There is no deadline for learning, and no role that should limit one’s potential for empowerment.
Author: Fiona Lim, Airlangga Global Engagement Intern
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
