The Influence of Social Media on the Profile of the Diploma 3 Air Traffic Controller Study Program at Surabaya Aviation Polytechnic

Abstract

This study aims to explore the role of social media in shaping the image and appeal of the Diploma 3 Air Traffic Control
Study Program at the Surabaya Aviation Polytechnic. Using a qualitative approach, the research focuses on a deep
understanding of the experiences, perceptions, and responses of various stakeholders, including current students,
prospective students, alumni, and institutional social media managers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews,
observations of Instagram content, and documentation of the study program's ongoing digital communication activities.
The findings reveal that social media particularly Instagram plays a significant role in forming a positive perception of
the study program through engaging, interactive, and consistent visual content tailored to the characteristics of today’s
digital audience. This research contributes to the formulation of relevant communication strategies in the digital era and
recommends the optimized use of social media as an effective and adaptive educational promotion tool in response to
ongoing developments in information technology.