Self-worth is a fundamental asset that students should develop before pursuing academic achievements or expanding their social networks. This was highlighted by Irma Shantia Dewi, Vice President of Corporate Banking Solution at PT Bank Mandiri (Persero) Tbk, during an Inspiring Person session as part of PIONIR SIMFONI 2026 on Wednesday (August 5, 2026), at Plaza FEB UGM.
Irma is a 1997 graduate of the Management program at FEB UGM. During her career at Bank Mandiri, she has led several projects, including the Mandiri Tax Amnesty program, served on the Qualified ASEAN Bank team, and led initiatives and collaborations across subsidiaries. In addition to her career at Bank Mandiri, she mentors young FEB UGM graduates as they pursue their careers.
During the session, Irma began by reflecting on her journey in choosing FEB UGM approximately three decades ago. She shared that her initial aspiration was to become a diplomat. However, her father advised her to first equip herself with knowledge of economics and law as a foundation for understanding a country.
“As diplomats, we need to understand the conditions of a country, including its economic and legal aspects. That is why I was encouraged to study economics first,” she recalled.
She also shared her experience preparing for the university entrance examination in just three days without sleep. For her, the experience taught her the importance of discipline and time management, particularly when entering university, where students are expected to be fully independent, unlike in secondary school, where schedules are more structured.
“When you enter university, everything has to be managed on your own. If you are not disciplined in managing your time, you will miss opportunities that could have been utilized,” she said.
Her early years at university were also memorable for Irma, as she once felt insecure upon entering an environment filled with students she perceived as more accomplished. However, she emphasized that such feelings should not become an obstacle, as every individual has unique strengths that others may not possess.
“Never feel that you are less capable than others. Be adaptable, open your mind, and start paying attention to the environment around you,” she advised.
Addressing the skills needed in today’s workplace, Irma highlighted several key competencies, including critical thinking, adaptability, communication, and leadership. According to her, these skills should be developed during university through active involvement in student organizations while maintaining academic achievement.
Furthermore, integrity, discipline, personal capacity, and consistency in adapting to change are fundamental qualities that determine students’ readiness to enter the workforce. A positive environment, she added, is also an important factor influencing an individual’s personal development.
“A good environment will encourage us to keep becoming better. That is the kind of environment we need to maintain,” she said.
According to Irma, this is also closely connected to the networks a person builds. Regarding networks and competencies, she emphasized that both are equally important, but personal value remains the most essential foundation.
“Expanding your network is important, but first, strengthen the value within yourself. Without that, we will only become spectators rather than being part of those connections,” she explained.
At the end of the session, Irma encouraged the new students to make the most of every opportunity available at FEB UGM, whether through student organizations or other activities, to create a positive impact and demonstrate their individual strengths.
“Wherever you are in the future, your presence will become a legacy for the place you leave behind,” she concluded.
Report: Dwi Zhafirah Meiliani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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