Opportunities do not come twice, and not everyone dares to seize them. When the Fast Track Undergraduate–Graduate Programme launched at the Faculty of Economics and Business at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM) at the end of 2023, Anawinta Choirunnisa chose to leap, despite not fully knowing what challenges lay ahead. This decision led her to join the first cohort of the Fast Track Master of Science in Accounting Program at FEB UGM.
Commonly known as Winta, the graduate had long aspired to pursue further studies, yet she had never imagined doing so through a fast-track scheme.
“Several people close to me encouraged me to give it a try, and I thought the same. After all, we never know when an opportunity like this will come again,” she said.
Winta admitted that she initially had no clear picture of what the program would entail, as she was part of the very first cohort. With no seniors or upper-level students to turn to for reference or guidance, everything felt entirely new. Nevertheless, she remained grateful for the valuable opportunity she received.
“This program also allows students to complete their undergraduate and graduate studies in a shorter time, as the final undergraduate semester runs in parallel with the first semester of the master’s program, and there are scholarships offered as well,” added Winta, who was also a recipient of a scholarship from the Master of Science in Accounting Program at FEB UGM.
Academic Challenges
Balancing undergraduate and graduate studies simultaneously posed significant challenges for Winta, particularly in adjusting to the differences in learning patterns between bachelor’s and master’s programs. Graduate studies, especially in the Master’s Degree (MD) Program at FEB UGM, place greater emphasis on independent research, in-depth theoretical exploration, and the development of critical and analytical thinking skills. The biggest challenge she faced was managing her intense academic workload alongside everything else.
“With a packed schedule, 24 hours in a day felt insufficient, so time had to be optimised to fulfil all responsibilities properly. Setting priorities is crucial. Although it felt overwhelming at first, over time I found my rhythm and learned to adapt,” she explained.
The academic environment itself also became a challenge, as her peers came from diverse educational backgrounds and professional experiences. Engaging in critical discussions during the learning process initially made her doubt her own abilities. Over time, however, she learned to develop a more balanced mindset and appreciate her own journey.
“Comparing ourselves to others never ends. I learned to reflect on what I have achieved and what I already possess. Everyone has a different process, and those differences are part of each individual’s journey,” she shared.
For Winta, the most demanding phase of her studies was working on both her undergraduate thesis and master’s thesis. She felt that this stage truly tested her academic abilities, commitment, and mental resilience, often leaving her feeling exhausted, doubtful, and prone to overthinking.
“However, I learned to persevere, trust myself, and accept that every journey has its challenges and twists through this phase. I believe that as long as we remain determined to keep moving forward, no matter how small the step, there is always room for us to learn and grow into better individuals,” she emphasized.
Winta’s master’s thesis focused on the use of performance information in the management of public schools. Through this research, she examined the role of organizational culture orientation in the relationship between the use of performance information and organizational performance. The findings showed that different purposes for using performance information can lead to varying impacts depending on those objectives. The use of performance information does not automatically improve performance without adequate follow-up actions. Therefore, organizations need to optimize the use of performance information through concrete follow-ups and by fostering an organizational culture that supports performance-based practices.
Values That Strengthen the Journey
Winta’s academic journey was inseparable from the support of various parties, including her parents, her thesis supervisor Rusdi Akbar, M.Sc., Ph.D., Ak., CA., and her friends, each contributing in their own way. Beyond external support, the values upheld by FEB UGM significantly shaped her character and mindset throughout her studies. Among these, integrity was the value she felt most strongly.
“A close friend once told me that FEB UGM graduates are known for having deeply rooted integrity a value that I truly felt reflected in the way I think and act in everyday life,” she said.
Throughout her time in the Fast Track Master of Science in Accounting Program at FEB UGM, she felt that her communication skills, time management, and problem-solving abilities were greatly enhanced. It was due to a curriculum and learning process designed to equip students with research skills, critical and analytical thinking, and scientific communication skills, both written and oral, to prepare them for professional and academic careers.
After completing her studies, the daughter of Sukijan and Insiyah chose to first explore the professional world by working and gaining practical experience to strengthen her personal capacity.
“In the future, I hope to have the opportunity to pursue further studies. However, for now, in the near term, I choose to move forward by exploring and making the most of every opportunity that comes along my journey,” she said.
Tips for Getting into the Fast Track Program
Winta advised FEB UGM students who aspire to continue their studies through the fast-track scheme to prepare thoroughly from the outset. According to her, establishing strong determination and commitment is the primary foundation before deciding to pursue this pathway.
“Friends should seek information about registration, requirements, and necessary documents well in advance. Preparing all the documents and going through the selection process certainly takes time,” she advised.
She also emphasized the importance of courage in dreaming and taking bold steps, including the decision to continue one’s studies.
“Believe in your potential and your choices. Explore every opportunity that lies ahead. That opportunity may become a bridge for you to achieve your dreams,” she concluded.
Reporter: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
Sustainable Development Goals
