From Campus Learning to Leadership Aspiration: The Role of Higher Education and Experiential Learning in Shaping Women Leaders in Indonesia

As women's participation in higher education is increasing, their representation in leadership positions is still limited, especially in Indonesia. This study examines how educational design, including classroom pedagogy, co-curricular engagement, and experiential learning, can shape female students' leadership aspirations. This qualitative study is based on Social Cognitive Career Theory and Transformational Learning Theory. The analysis applied a systematic thematic coding procedure, supported by code-frequency mapping, theme co-occurrence analysis, and researcher triangulation, in order to strengthen the transparency and rigor of the analysis. The findings show that gender-inclusive learning climates, active learning methods such as discussions and presentations, and micro-leadership roles within group assignments can improve leadership self-efficacy and identity formation. Co-curricular and experiential learning opportunities can serve as mastery experiences, which can strengthen confidence and relational leadership skills. However, cultural expectations and family norms still influence how women translate their educational experiences into leadership ambitions. This study highlights the role of higher education and also digital and interactive learning environments as spaces that can support inclusive leadership development in non-Western contexts.