PENGALAMAN KOMUNIKASI ANTARBUDAYA MAHASISWA LOKAL DENGAN MAHASISWA JABODETABEK (STUDI PADA MAHASISWA ILMU KOMUNIKASI UMM)

This study aims to determine the perceptions of local students towards students from Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek) in the context of intercultural communication at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang. The background of the study stems from the cultural diversity of UMM students which gives rise to interaction dynamics, including differences in communication styles, stereotypes, and cross-cultural barriers. Students from Greater Jakarta are considered to have distinctive communication characteristics, such as different speaking styles, slang, and nonverbal expressions. This study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive type and case study method. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews with local students who met the research criteria, supplemented by observation and documentation. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis techniques. The results of the study show that local students' perceptions of students from Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek) through direct communication experiences, observation processes, interpretations, and assessments are influenced by cultural factors, experiences, and stereotypes. Local students perceive students from Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek) as straightforward communicators, quickly become close, but tend to be "outspoken" and pay less attention to local norms. However, certain perceptions change after deeper interactions, marked by increased understanding, tolerance, and cultural acceptance. This study confirms that cultural perceptions influence the effectiveness of intercultural communication and can be a bridge or a barrier to multicultural student interactions.