Yogyakarta, August 14, 2026 - The English Literature Study Program Student Association (HMPSSI) of Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University successfully held a First Gathering for the 2026 cohort of new students. Held at the Teatrikal Building of the Center for Language Development (P2B), the event was attended by approximately 162 new students and members of HMPSSI.

The First Gathering served as an introductory event for new students to become familiar with the English Literature Study Program, build connections, and strengthen a sense of togetherness among students. The event began with registration and an opening session, followed by remarks from the Chairperson of HMPSSI and an introduction to the organization, its programs, and the various divisions under HMPSSI.

The event was not only intended to welcome the new students but also provided a space for them to get to know one another, build connections, and become more familiar with HMPSSI. In addition, the event served as one of the initial steps in HMPSSI's regeneration by introducing the organization to the new students and showing that HMPSSI is more than just a student organization. It is also a space for students to learn, grow, expand their networks, and gain valuable experiences beyond the classroom.

Through this event, new students are expected to see that joining HMPSSI can be an enjoyable and meaningful experience. Therefore, they are encouraged to become more interested in contributing to and becoming part of HMPSSIin the future.

The event was also attended by the Head of the English Literature Study Program, Dr. Ulyati Retno Sari, S.S., M.Hum. Her presence was part of the welcoming of the new students as members of the English Literature Study Program community. She also greeted the students and encouraged them as they began their academic journey.

The atmosphere became even more lively during the ice breaking session and group games. The new students showed great enthusiasm in participating in various activities designed to break the ice and strengthen group cohesion. These activities also provided opportunities for the students to interact and communicate with peers they had not previously known.

In addition to the bonding activities, the new students received information about various student activities, including Malam Keakraban (Makrab), a bonding event designed to bring students closer together and foster a sense of belonging. As one of their first activities as English Literature students, Makrab will provide an opportunity for them to get to know one another and build a strong sense of togetherness.

The event also featured an introduction to Teater Pandora. During the session, representatives of Teater Pandora, Demas, Galuh, Galih, and Sanya, introduced the theater and provided an overview of its upcoming production, Mimpi, Mati, dan Tirani, which is scheduled to take place on August 29, 2026.

The First Gathering concluded with a sharing and question-and-answer session, followed by further information and a group photo. Through this event, HMPSSI hopes that the new students will feel more welcomed as part of the English Literature community, become more familiar with one another, and be ready to participate in various activities throughout their university journey.

The First Gathering 2026 marked an initial step for the new English Literature students to build a sense of togetherness, become familiar with student life, and find opportunities to grow and contribute to the English Literature Study Program at Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University. (SNJ)