Student engagement with intercultural societal challenges is investigated for academic programs as the globalizing trend requires students to interact effectively in multicultural settings, yet not all students are capable of doing this. Through explanatory sequential mixed methods, with quantitative data using questionnaires and qualitative data using semi-structured interviews, this study aims to investigate the interplay between cultural awareness and participation in the programs and to findout the challenges. The respondents were seventy-three students who ever followed this program in face-to-face or online meetings. To complete the qualitative data, semi-structured interviews with four students were used. The study revealed that enhanced cultural awareness levels directly influenced student enrollment in intercultural societal challenges. Students involved in the program discussed multiple challenges which included problems with language learning associated with cultural communication issues and differences in understanding between participants. This study both adds to existing academic documents because it demonstrates how cultural understanding drives students to actively participate in international programs, thus demonstrating why formalized cultural competence training should be integrated into university learning. This study brings originality through its examination of experiential intercultural program learning which enhances student adaptability and cross-cultural communication abilities in order to fill knowledge gaps in theoretical cultural awareness research.

Situation Awareness (SA) refers to an individual’s perception or response to understanding the conditions or state of their surrounding environment. For Aviation Security (Avsec) personnel, Situation Awareness is crucial as it impacts their performance and the success of their duties and responsibilities on the field. This study aims to explore how Avsec personnel develop Situation Awareness (SA) and the obstacles they face during the screening of passengers' baggage at Komodo Labuan Bajo Airport. The research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive qualitative research design. Data collection for this study was conducted at Komodo Labuan Bajo Airport, involving interviews, observations, and documentation. The findings indicate that the Aviation Security (Avsec) personnel at Komodo Labuan Bajo Airport have effectively implemented Situation Awareness (SA) and have reached Level 3 SA. This reflects their capability to understand and manage situations very well. The personnel not only adhere strictly to instructions but also take the initiative to observe suspicious passenger behavior. A deep understanding of procedures and good coordination enable them to handle both normal and emergency situations efficiently, ensuring safety and effectiveness in the screening of passengers' baggage.