Akbar Rahul Muafan (23), commonly known as Rahul, is an inspiring figure who successfully earned the title of the best graduate of the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) UGM in the second graduation period of the 2024/2025 academic year. The youngest child of Jajang Karta Dinata (54) and Novelinda (57) from Padang City has proven that determination, perseverance, and hard work can lead to success, even in the face of challenges.
A student of the 2020 Management Study Program, Rahul completed his studies in just four years and two months, graduating with a cumulative GPA of 3.9 and receiving the cum laude distinction. Even before officially earning his degree, he secured a position at a multinational company in the beauty industry, Glad2Glow.
Pursuing His Dream
Rahul had aspired to study at UGM since his tenth year of high school. To him, UGM represented the ideal environment for academic growth, fostering interactions with students from diverse backgrounds and providing a high-quality education. However, his journey to UGM was far from easy. In his final year of high school, his father suffered a heart attack, significantly impacting the family’s financial situation. As a photographer and the sole breadwinner, his father’s illness placed the family under financial strain.
“My parents always supported my dream of studying at UGM, but given my father’s illness and our worsening financial situation, they advised me to continue my studies in Padang if possible. It wasn’t that I wanted to disregard their concerns, but I had a dream—to uplift my family’s financial situation and create a better future. So, I remained steadfast in my decision to choose UGM. I believed that if I got accepted, it meant God had a beautiful plan for my future,” he shared.
To convince his parents, Rahul demonstrated his commitment by studying independently without private tutors, borrowing books from friends, and relentlessly seeking scholarship opportunities. His determination paid off when he was accepted into UGM, bringing both joy and apprehension to his parents, who worried about the financial burden.
“I proved that I could secure a scholarship to ease my family’s financial burden,” said Rahul, who successfully obtained the Indonesia Smart Card Scholarship (KIP-K).
Overcoming Challenges in College
Throughout his studies, Rahul encountered numerous challenges, particularly financial constraints. However, these hardships only strengthened his resilience and determination. To support himself, he took on several part-time jobs, including working with the FEB UGM Public Relations team, serving as a social media specialist at a creative agency, and joining a wedding planning team. Despite his demanding schedule, he remained committed to his studies, ultimately graduating with honors.
One of his most memorable experiences was when his savings were nearly depleted, and FEB UGM offered him an opportunity to work part-time in its Public Relations division. This moment reinforced his belief in the saying, “With hardship comes ease.” Since then, he has always trusted that God’s plan is the best.
Rahul also actively participated in various organizations and major events that helped him hone his skills. He joined BEM FEB UGM in the External Relations and Diplomacy Division, served as CEO of PPSMB Simfoni 2022, and worked as the Sub-Coordinator of the Ticketing and Liaison Office at the Young Entrepreneurs Show event.
Additionally, he gained valuable experience through internships at PT Vidio Dot Com (Digital Marketing), Blibli (Content and Promotion Strategies), and PT AVO Innovation Technology (Marketing Communication for Glow Better). He also worked part-time as a Social Media Specialist and Public Relations team member at FEB UGM.
His dedication and hard work earned him several prestigious accolades, including Best Blibli Intern 2024 (Kampus Merdeka Batch 6) and the Universitas Gadjah Mada HUMAS Award, where he and the FEB UGM Public Relations team won 1st place for TikTok Social Media, 2nd place for Instagram and YouTube, and Best UGM Website.
Keys to Success in College
For Rahul, integrity and professionalism are two core values that have guided his journey. He believes these principles are the foundation of success, and the ethical values instilled by FEB UGM have shaped him into the person he is today.
Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and internships requires careful prioritization. As a student, maintaining academic excellence comes first, followed by giving the best effort in every responsibility, whether in organizations, internships, or personal development. After putting in the hard work, trusting in God’s plan is just as important.
“Effort and perseverance are essential, but never forget to pray,” he emphasized.
Rahul concluded his story with a piece of advice: never doubt God’s plan.
“No matter how perfect our plans may seem, God’s plan is always better. Never question your journey—because your life story has been written by the best scriptwriter,” he concluded.
Report by: Orie Priscylla Mapeda Lumalan
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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