Vocational high school (SMK) graduates are expected not only to be ready to enter the workforce but also to adapt to the evolving needs of industry and the changing landscape of professional careers. Therefore, understanding a wide range of career opportunities, recognizing the value of higher education, and building self-confidence are essential complements to technical skills.
With this spirit in mind, students from the Accounting Department of SMKN 1 Seputih Surabaya, Lampung, visited the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM), as part of the 2026 Campus Visit program on Thursday (July 30). The visit aimed to introduce students to university life and to explore career prospects in accounting.
The Head of the Accounting Education Research Group at FEB UGM, Arika Artiningsih, S.E., M.Acc., M.Com., M.Res., Ph.D., CFE., CFrA., CPA (Aust.), expressed her appreciation for the visit. She hoped that the program would inspire students to pursue higher education at FEB UGM.
“SMKN 1 Seputih Surabaya is one of the schools that has maintained a long-standing partnership with FEB UGM. We hope this visit provides meaningful benefits and marks the beginning of even stronger collaboration between SMKN 1 Seputih Surabaya and FEB UGM,” she said.
During the program, the students were introduced to various career opportunities in accounting. Nadya Windy Putrie, S.Pd., M.Acc., a researcher at the Accounting Education Research Group of FEB UGM, presented a broad overview of career paths available to accounting graduates, including public sector auditor, internal auditor, tax consultant, financial analyst, and professional roles in government institutions and multinational corporations.
The session continued with Bayu Setyawan Suprayogi, S.E., M.Sc., a lecturer from the Department of Accounting at FEB UGM, who shared his professional journey before joining the faculty. Before becoming a lecturer, he worked as an auditor at one of the Big Four public accounting firms. Bayu emphasized that critical thinking, a willingness to learn continuously, and effective communication are essential competencies for a successful auditing career.
Another lecturer from the Department of Accounting, Dr. Puspita Ghaniy Anggraini, S.E., highlighted the importance of higher education in expanding career opportunities, developing broader perspectives, and building professional networks. She also addressed the need to eliminate the stigma that still limits women’s access to higher education and leadership positions. According to her, women possess valuable strengths such as attention to detail, risk management capabilities, and empathy qualities that become even more impactful when supported by higher education and strong professional competencies.
Reporter: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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