Completing a master’s degree quickly with a high cumulative grade point average (GPA) is remarkable. Hersanti Safira (25) successfully graduated from the Master in Development Economics program at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Gadjah Mada (MEP FEB UGM) in just 1 year, 5 months, and 17 days with a GPA of 3.79, earning a cum laude distinction.
She was one of the MEP UGM graduates at the postgraduate commencement on October 23, 2024. This accomplishment repeats the success she had previously achieved. During her undergraduate studies, Hersanti also earned a cum laude distinction from the Economics Department of FEB UGM. This success was achieved slowly, but she proved that one can open the door to success with dedication and determination.
Securing the LEDs Scholarship
Hersanti’s journey to earning cum laude distinctions for both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees did not come without challenges. She faced various obstacles, which she eventually overcame. One of her proudest accomplishments was receiving the Leaders in Economic Development Scholarships (LEDs) from MEP UGM. This scholarship is awarded to fresh graduates with strong academic and non-academic abilities and a clear vision for contributing to regional development. “It was an honor to receive the LEDs scholarship, which I earned through a long and challenging process,” she said in a recent interview.
During her studies, the Magelang native also achieved several awards and honors. She was selected as the best staff member at the Student Executive Board (BEM) of FEB UGM and was a finalist in the Diponegoro Financial National Competition in 2019. Through these experiences, she contributed beyond her duties and maximized her potential. She also won second place in the “I Get Code” competition by MEP FEB UGM in 2024. In this competition, Hersanti presented her thesis on gender inequality in home ownership in Indonesia, hoping her research would benefit housing equity policies in Indonesia and support gender equality. She had previously placed third in the I Get Code competition in 2023.
Almost Gave Up
During her studies, the student who focused on Asset Management and Property Valuation concentration often felt overwhelmed and wanted to give up. However, she quickly remembered the many dreams she wanted to achieve and her belief that happiness awaited her. According to her, failure is a valuable lesson about acceptance, resilience, and self-reflection. That moment motivated Hersanti to rise and continue her journey.
Another challenge she faced during her master’s program was the demand for independent learning. However, her peer group played a significant role in helping her through these challenging times. “In this small group, we discussed difficult material and provided emotional support to one another,” said Hersanti, who also acknowledged that her success was supported by her husband, family, and FEB UGM.
Success Tips for Master’s Study
When asked about her tips for success in pursuing her studies, Hersanti revealed that she applied effective learning strategies. She made sure to understand the material rather than just memorizing it deeply. “I always develop a logical thinking framework and set targets to comprehend the material fully,” she explained.
Time management was another key to her success. According to her, effectively managing her time by setting priorities helped her track her goals. Hersanti always made to-do lists and set priorities. Sometimes, she had to sacrifice other activities to achieve her goals. However, she believed these good habits greatly benefited her time management despite the challenging process.
In addition, Hersanti balanced her academic and personal life by setting aside time to rest. She emphasized the importance of prayer as a foundation for all her achievements with the help of the Almighty. She also highlighted the importance of forming peer groups, as they helped exchange information and provided emotional support.
“Equally important, never stop dreaming. When we keep dreaming, we will keep moving forward. That was one of my motivations to complete what I started as a bridge to achieving other dreams,” said Hersanti, who aspires to establish her public valuation firm.
Hersanti Safira is a true example of facing challenges and achieving one’s dreams with hard work, dedication, and good time management. She has proven that success is not instant but the result of a long process and committed effort.
Reportage: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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