As part of the PIONIR: Student Socialization and Initiation Program (Simfoni), the Faculty of Economics and Business Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM) held a Student Learning Session (SPM) for the new undergraduate students of the class of 2025 on Wednesday (6/8) at Plaza FEB UGM. The session featured FEB UGM Management alumna (Class of 2021), Elizabeth Christy Go, who shared her academic and career journey in a talk titled “Management According to Elizabeth Christy Go: From Class to Career.”
Opening her presentation, Elizabeth recounted her college life filled with various activities such as studying, joining competitions, participating in organizations, interning, working on projects, and mentoring. Despite her many achievements, she emphasized that personal growth is not always smooth.
“Growth is not always linear and progressive. Sometimes, there are sideways moments where you learn something new outside your main path. These moments allow you to gain fresh perspectives and valuable lessons,” Elizabeth explained.
She also shared that feeling lost or confused along the way is normal, noting that every moment will have its relevance in the future.
“What may seem like a backward step is part of the growth process. Returning to the basics is okay when you feel lost or your previous methods no longer work. It is a time to pause for your mental well-being, it can be a turning point,” Elizabeth said.
Elizabeth described growth as moving forward through achievements, growing sideways by exploring new things, and even increasing backward by taking a step back to reflect.
“It’s normal to feel burnt out or experience an identity crisis during your journey. Don’t stop. Instead, try to find ways to move out of that zone. We often hesitate or fear starting something, but it turns out that courage is exactly what we need,” Elizabeth added.
She encouraged the new students to build connections with fellow students, lecturers, and professional staff, as these relationships will provide guidance and support throughout their academic journey.
Elizabeth also expressed her hope that students would not limit themselves to attending lectures but also engage in organizations, join competitions, and seek work experience. She said these experiences are essential for developing soft and hard skills, not just acquired through classes.
“What matters most in the workplace is your character. FEB UGM fosters its students with core values such as integrity, professionalism, objectivity, equality, academic freedom, and social awareness. These will be your foundation when entering the professional world,” she emphasized.
To conclude the session, Elizabeth reminded students to embrace the principles of learn, yearn, and earn.
“Don’t be afraid if you don’t understand something yet or are not good at something immediately. What matters is your willingness to learn. Dare to dream, and you will eventually reap what you sow. Remember, the process of growth starts today,” Elizabeth concluded.
Reporter: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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