Achieving an almost perfect GPA of 3.85 and a long list of organizational roles and internships across various industries was not an overnight feat for Milzam Shidqi Ismanta (22). Milzam, a Management Program graduate of FEB UGM, has shown that success comes from making decisions, staying determined, and being patient.
Initially, Milzam aspired to become a doctor. During high school, his academic scores supported this ambition—he even achieved a perfect score in the National Mathematics Exam and was appointed as a peer tutor for science subjects. However, deep self-reflection made him realize his genuine interest was not in medicine.
“I realized that my true passion lies in leadership, organizational work, and strategic decision-making,” he shared.
This realization became a turning point, prompting him to realign his career path. He firmly decided to pursue management at FEB UGM as his stepping stone in the future. For him, the program offered broad, practical, and challenging opportunities for exploration.
Leadership skills are not born overnight. Milzam’s journey began in junior high school when he served as the Student Council President at SMP Negeri 8 Yogyakarta and led the marching band extracurricular club. He continued to be actively involved in over 30 organizations and committees.
“The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is that emotional intelligence is the main foundation for effective organizational work, especially in leadership,” he explained.
One of Milzam’s most memorable experiences was serving as Subunit Coordinator (Kormasit) for UGM’s KKN-PPM “Kembara Tegallalang”. This role required him to be more than just a program facilitator—it demanded that he maintain team stability, mediate conflicts, and make critical decisions in various on-field situations. He learned leadership maturity comes from experience, reflection, and evolution.
“This experience shaped me into a leader who can stay calm and wise, not only as a strategic guide but also as a listener and someone who provides space for team members to grow,” he added.
A Glimpse into University Life
For Milzam, studying in the Management Program at FEB UGM gave him the flexibility and breadth to learn holistically. He applied his knowledge across diverse industries, from real estate, tourism, and hospitality, to luxury automotive and insurance.
“I built my learning journey actively—not just in class but also through internships, part-time work, organizational activities, committees, and business competitions,” said Milzam.
His first internship came unexpectedly through an Instagram post. He joined PT Saraswanti Indoland Development Tbk. over two years ago, rising from Corporate Communications Intern to Head of Digital Marketing and eventually Assistant Director of Sales and Marketing (Part-Time).
Through the Certified Internship and Independent Study Program (MSIB), Milzam received offers from three multinational companies: Zurich Insurance, Nestlé, and Lexus (PT Toyota-Astra Motor). He chose to intern at Lexus Indonesia as a Sales Operations & Customer Experience Intern, then continued at FWD Insurance as a Digital Partnership Intern while completing his thesis.
“The greatest lesson was not just about finishing tasks, but about building attitude and emotional intelligence in the workplace,” he emphasized while explaining that the values of integrity and professionalism instilled at FEB UGM became his anchor in facing professional challenges.
A Strategy for Decision-Making
Amidst his busy schedule, Milzam manages his time by applying a strategic and efficient mindset when making decisions. He believes time is a resource worth investing in. Every decision starts with setting a clear goal, estimating the expected output, defining a reasonable effort limit, and establishing a scale of priorities.
When learning, he practices staying agile and aware of his surroundings. Everything—from discussions to books—can provide valuable lessons for him.
“As long as we have the drive to learn, everything around us can offer meaningful insights. The key is our ability to connect the dots,” Milzam continued.
When speaking about failure, he believes others’ judgments do not define it; moments of self-doubt define it. To overcome it, he always reflects and holds onto the mindset that if he has good intentions but still falls short, he should move on, take the lesson, and look for the next opportunity.
Motivation and Life Principles
Since childhood, his parents have allowed him to make decisions—from simple things to major life choices. This approach indirectly trained him to independently determine his direction, weigh options, take action, and accept the consequences of his choices.
“This is my greatest motivation—knowing I control my life. I have to take action to live better, to contribute more meaningfully, and to become a better version of myself. That’s why my drive for achievement is not just about external success but about being accountable for my choices,” he explained.
Harvey Specter, an inspirational figure from the TV series Suits, further strengthens his motivation. Though fictional, Harvey has impacted him because of his sharp intellect, professionalism, and transformation: his courage to open up, make peace with his past, and stay true to his values even under pressure.
“From Harvey, I learned that being ambitious doesn’t mean losing empathy, and that confidence is not arrogance but the result of a long process and hard work. He taught me that being a good leader is not just about giving directions but about showing up with a calm mind and an open heart amid challenges,” he added.
One of the principles he holds dear is always to think positively, no matter how tough the situation, how heavy the consequences, or how big the risks.
Amid his academic and professional accomplishments, Milzam remains grounded in a simple spiritual value instilled by his parents: always remember Allah SWT, wherever and whenever. After graduating from FEB UGM, Milzam plans to immediately enter the workforce while exploring opportunities to pursue a master’s degree in his second or third year. He hopes to specialize in strategic management, which best aligns with his vision and thinking.
Don’t Be Afraid to Delay—But Be Sure You’re Ready
Closing his chapter as a student, Milzam shared a reflective message for fellow students still on campus. For him, graduation means being ready to end a special phase of life—a time when being a student gives one the freedom to try, experiment, fail, grow, and dream without too many limits.
“Make sure that before you graduate, you’ve truly pursued what you want, gained the experience you need, and prepared yourself to be the best version of yourself for the next phase,” he said.
Milzam also emphasized not to rush graduation just because of external pressure.
“Everyone has their timeline. If you choose to delay graduation, ensure that the delay brings greater benefits for your future. What matters most is not who finishes first, but who finishes best prepared,” Milzam concluded.
Report: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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