Buono Aji Santoso (30) is one of 17 master’s graduates who achieved a perfect Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.00 at the Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) Postgraduate Graduation Ceremony held on April 22–23, 2026, at Grha Sabha Pramana (GSP). A graduate of the Master of Accounting Program at the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) UGM, Buono completed his studies in 1 year, 6 months, and 21 days shorter than the average completion time of 2 years and 1 month, with an average GPA of 3.75 for this cohort.
Buono expressed his gratitude for completing his master’s degree. He emphasized that this achievement was hard-won, having come at the end of a long journey marked by challenges.
Buono has been a Civil Servant at the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (PANRB) since 2018, where he began his career as an auditor. In his role, he not only oversees state finances but also serves as a consultant, ensuring that public funds are used effectively to deliver optimal benefits to society.
Driven by a desire to enhance his capacity and contribute more significantly to the public sector, Buono decided to pursue his master’s degree in the Master of Accounting Program at FEB UGM in August 2024.
“I found that this program focuses on public sector accounting and collaborates with the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) to improve the quality of government internal auditors. Through this, I want to ensure that every rupiah from the state budget truly delivers value for money and contributes to public welfare,” he explained.
During his studies, Buono maintained a high level of discipline. He consistently focused during lectures, actively participated in discussions, and took notes to review later. Despite balancing his responsibilities as a professional and a family man, he managed his time carefully, making use of every available moment to study and complete assignments.
He also achieved several accomplishments, including being awarded Best Presenter at the International Student Conference organized by the Faculty of Business, Widya Mandala Surabaya Catholic University, an achievement he considers his most memorable.
“It was my first time participating in an international conference, and with what I considered modest English-speaking skills, I was grateful that my presentation was well-received and earned the Best Presenter award. It motivates me to continue improving,” he said.
However, his academic journey was not without obstacles. He faced challenges in balancing his studies and family life.
“At times, it was very difficult to divide my time between studying and family. I always tried to maintain a balance between my academic responsibilities and my role as a father,” he shared.
He also admitted failing when he received an unsatisfactory result in one of his early-semester exams. The experience made him worried about his academic performance, but he chose not to dwell on disappointment. Instead, he worked harder and challenged himself to improve his performance in the final exam.
“The most valuable lesson I learned is to never give up until the end. I believe that when we have done our best, whatever the outcome, we can accept it sincerely rather than regret giving up too early,” Buono stated.
Throughout his studies, Buono consistently applied disciplined learning strategies and effective time management by prioritizing academic, professional, and family responsibilities.
During his time at FEB UGM, Buono emphasized that integrity and professionalism were the core values that shaped his character and mindset. He approached his academic responsibilities with honesty and commitment, ensuring that he completed every task to the highest standard.
Behind his academic achievements, Buono also faced a profound personal challenge. While working on his thesis, he had to care for his mother, who was diagnosed with stage 4 thyroid cancer. Despite the situation, he remained motivated to complete his studies to honor her unwavering support.
He experienced a moment of happiness when he was declared to have passed his final defense in early March 2026. Upon hearing the news, his mother expressed her pride.
“I believe my mother was happy to hear the news. I can still remember her expression. She said she was proud that I had reached the final stage and was about to graduate, but she also apologized for not being able to attend my graduation in April,” he recalled.
However, reality took a different turn. His mother was unable to attend not only due to her declining health but also because she passed away on March 30, 2026. Her passing brought deep sorrow, especially as she could not witness his graduation ceremony at GSP. Nevertheless, Buono remains committed to holding onto her encouragement and advice to keep striving and learning throughout his life.
This experience shaped his perspective on perseverance and personal growth. He now strongly believes in the importance of resilience, self-reflection, and continuous improvement.
Looking ahead, Buono is committed to applying the knowledge he gained during his studies to his work as an auditor at the Ministry of PANRB. He also plans to share his knowledge with colleagues and contribute to improving public financial governance. Furthermore, he aspires to pursue doctoral studies in the future.
Buono also shared advice for students striving to complete their studies successfully. He emphasized the importance of doing one’s best in every process and never giving up.
“Through trying and even failing, we learn many valuable lessons. Never be easily satisfied, and always strengthen your desire to improve your capacity and knowledge,” he concluded.
Reported by: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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