i3L University Best Faculty Award 2025: Honoring Excellence

In the 2025 celebration of excellence in education, the best faculty award at i3L University was awarded to Ms. Ariska, an inspiring lecturer known for her steadfast dedication, humility, and innovative teaching approach. Her journey serves as a reminder that impactful education comes not just from mastery of content but from a genuine connection with students and a passion for continuous learning.

A Surprising and Heartfelt Recognition

When asked about her initial reaction to receiving the best faculty award, Ms. Ariska shared her surprise. “Honestly, I was very surprised—especially because I had just been discharged from the hospital,” she said. Initially hesitant to apply due to the impressive accomplishments of other nominees, she was encouraged by her colleagues, particularly Ms. Hanny, to give it a shot.

“Receiving this award feels both surreal and deeply meaningful,” she added, expressing gratitude to Ms. Hanny, Ms. Katherine, and the entire Food Technology and Food Science & Nutrition team. Their supportive environment, she said, allowed her to grow and thrive.

The Deeper Meaning Behind the Award

To Ms. Ariska, the best faculty award represents more than recognition—it’s a symbol of perseverance, growth, and the importance of believing in one’s journey. “I never saw myself as someone who would receive something like this,” she admitted. “But it reminded me that growth is not always visible.”

On a personal level, the award encouraged her to keep going and trust the process. Professionally, it serves as a reminder of her role in shaping the minds and characters of future professionals. “This wouldn’t have been possible without a supportive environment, including students who never stop encouraging me,” she said.

A Challenging Yet Rewarding Academic Year

Reflecting on the 2024/2025 academic year, Ms. Ariska described her teaching journey as both exciting and demanding. “I had to teach three new courses, which pushed me to adapt in terms of both content and teaching methods,” she explained. Beyond teaching, she was also involved in three research projects and two community service initiatives.

These experiences pushed her beyond her comfort zone and allowed her to grow as a lecturer. One highlight was integrating two research projects and one community service activity directly into the classroom. “It made the learning process more practical and engaging for the students,” she said, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning in science studies and other applied disciplines.

Learning from Students: The Heart of Teaching

While Ms. Ariska’s role is to teach, she believes she learns just as much from her students. This year, she supervised around 8–9 students each semester from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds.

One of the most memorable experiences for her was witnessing the quiet transformation of students who initially went unnoticed. “Some didn’t stand out much in class, but when it came to their individual projects, they truly shined,” she recalled. “Moments like that remind me that every student has potential. It’s our role as educators to help them discover and believe in that potential.”

Her dedication and genuine care are just a few of the many reasons she was named the best lecturer at i3L this year, joining the ranks of those recognized through the best lecturer award for making a lasting impact in higher education.

A Message of Gratitude and Encouragement

As the academic year closes, Ms. Ariska offers a heartfelt message to her fellow faculty members and students: “Teaching and learning are ongoing journeys. To my fellow lecturers, thank you for your daily dedication, inspiration, and all the little things you do that often go unseen. And to the students, thank you for showing up and bringing your creativity to class.”

She concluded with a powerful reminder: “Let’s keep learning, growing, and supporting one another.”

Why Recognizing the Best Faculty Matters

Awards like the best faculty award are crucial in honoring educators who perform well. The academic community encourages innovation and highlights the importance of empathy, resilience, and continuous development in teaching. As i3L University continues to grow as a university for science, business studies, and global innovation, educators like Ms. Ariska will continue to shape the minds and values of future leaders.