Aldi is eager to pioneer innovations within the scientific realm, driven by his enthusiastic passion for chemistry. Intrigued by the realms of climate change and renewable energy, he aspires to make a valuable societal and environmental impact through his research endeavors in hydrogen production.
He is the recipient of a scholarship from a professor at Kookmin University for the Department of Applied Chemistry. Through this scholarship, Aldi is currently taking an integrated program for master’s and doctorate degrees. While studying as an integrated program student, he also works as a research assistant in the Energy & Catalyst Materials Lab. Our Columnist for Asia, Middle-East, and Africa, Anasthasia Nikki, had a chance to talk with him, where he shared his experiences.
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Hi Aldi! Thank you so much for giving your time to talk with us. Can you tell us more about yourself?
Hi! My name is Dwi Sakti Aldianto Pratama, or people usually call me Aldi. Currently, I am studying at Kookmin University, South Korea, taking an Integrated Program for a Master’s and Doctorate Degree in Applied Chemistry.
Previously, I studied at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), taking a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. During my studies, I got more interested in chemistry as I actively participated in HMK AMISCA ITB, the association of ITB’s chemistry department’s undergraduate students. After graduating, I worked for a few months as an intern in one of the companies in Karawang before I got scouted to be a research assistant for the Energy and Catalyst Materials Lab, where I have been working for almost two years now.
So interesting! Tell us more about your field of study and why you chose this integrated program as your educational path?
Well, research projects in chemistry typically demand a significant time investment per study. Considering this, pursuing a master’s degree might not afford me ample time for the research I aspire to undertake. So, opting for an integrated program seems to be the ideal route that aligns with my goals.
My undergraduate degree in chemistry, more of a pure science, has sparked my interest also in applied chemistry. As the continuation of my previous study, rather than delving into entirely new subjects, I am leveraging my knowledge to design experiments pertinent to chemistry that apply to a broader society. Also, I can opt out of the specialization I want to dig deeper into in this course.
Applied chemistry offers numerous specializations for me to explore. However, concerns about climate change and renewable energy have led me to the development of state-of-the-art technologies for hydrogen production. People might not be very familiar with hydrogen production, but just as an insight, I would like to share more about this.
Hydrogen production typically involves water-splitting electrolysis, a process wherein water is split using electrolysis. However, this reaction usually demands a significant amount of energy (overpotential). Through my studies in materials engineering, particularly electrocatalyst development, I study to reduce this energy requirement (overpotential reduction). Thus, this advancement enables hydrogen production that requires less energy, making it a viable option as a renewable energy source.
For me, I see my studies not just as a personal gain but also for the benefits of others and the broader community. Given the significant potential of hydrogen for renewable energy, I believe that my current academic pursuits hold promise for making a positive impact on the world in the future.
But why did you choose Chemistry? Do you have any story about it?
To be honest, I didn’t have a specific reason for choosing chemistry as my major during my bachelor’s degree. However, my interest in mathematics from a young age faded in high school. It was my chemistry teacher that roused my passion for chemistry. Specifically, his teaching skills made it easy to understand the subject. I also participated in competitions, which further fueled my enthusiasm as well. Although I had doubts during my undergraduate studies, discussions with seniors highlighted the importance of chemistry in life sciences and material development for technology, livening up my commitment to pursuing more in chemistry.
Why did you choose South Korea as a place to study?
Initially, South Korea wasn’t on my radar for studying abroad. However, after receiving an invitation from a senior during my undergraduate studies, I discovered that Kookmin University offered an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into applied chemistry, particularly in electrochemistry and nanotechnology—two areas that piqued my interest.
What really drew me in was the prospect of working as a research assistant while pursuing my studies. While some might find the idea daunting, I found it exhilarating. Combining research with academic studies allows for a hands-on learning experience, providing valuable work experience and deeper knowledge. Before I arrived in South Korea, positive feedback about the facilities and work environment at the lab cemented my decision to pursue my studies here, too.
Did you find any challenges regarding your study in a different country? If yes, how did you overcome that?
I think I face challenges every time haha. The first one, I would say, was navigating the language and culture. While English suffices for communication in the lab, adapting to life in South Korea demands proficiency in Korean—a challenge I’m tackling head-on despite still not being fluent in the language. Another obstacle is maintaining commitment amidst the rigors of academia. Like many students, I grapple with fatigue and occasional burnouts but strive to persevere. Lastly, I would say that in the stage of study as a master’s student (in my second year now), there are moments when I’m expected to perform at a level akin to a Ph.D. candidate when I’m conducting experiments, pressuring me to understand every part of research that I am conducting.
However, despite facing numerous challenges throughout my course, it reignited my sense of purpose and fueled my motivation to push through. Each challenge for me served as a reminder of why I embarked on this journey and consequently motivated me to give my all as a student and a researcher. Embracing the stress and difficulties, I found solace in the belief that they contribute to personal growth and development. In essence, I didn’t overcome challenges. I embraced them as integral to my growth.
So, what is your dream or goal after you finish your study?
Honestly, I still have a good couple of years left to dive deeper into applied chemistry, especially focusing on green hydrogen production also catalyst materials engineering. So, I haven’t quite figured out exactly what path I’ll take after graduation. But one thing’s for sure—I want to make a difference. Whether I end up as a researcher, lecturer, or working in a company, I want my knowledge to count. My goal is to contribute to society, science, my homeland, Indonesia, and the environment. Ultimately, I have a huge interest in playing a part in saving our planet for the future.
Last question. Do you have any message for those fellow people who want to study abroad in the same field as you?
Starting anything new is never easy. You will question every decision you make, and doubts will creep in. But trust me, if the STEM field is your passion and you’re diving into study and research, even on your toughest days, you’ll feel relieved knowing you took that first step. So, don’t hesitate to give yourself a chance. Believe in yourself, trust your instincts, and you’ll do just fine.
