UPNVJ Public Relations – Indria Putri Maharani's journey to graduation was not an easy one. The undergraduate student in International Relations, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Veteran National Development University Jakarta (UPNVJ), had to overcome economic constraints, mental pressure, and academic challenges before being named one of the best graduates at UPNVJ's 76th Graduation Ceremony. For Indria, graduation is proof that perseverance, family support, and faith in the process can lead her to the goal she has always strived for.
"It certainly wasn't easy, but the whole process was truly worth it . Through each obstacle, I learned and grew a lot," said Indria.
Indria's journey to college began in high school. She was accepted into UPNVJ through an invitational process after working tirelessly to pursue higher education there. This opportunity marked the beginning of a long journey that required not only academic ability but also mental resilience.
During her education, Indria received the Single Tuition Fee (UKT) Group 1. She said she greatly benefited from this tuition fee policy, especially given her family's limited financial situation. She believes UPNVJ's support provides students from diverse backgrounds with equal opportunities to pursue higher education.
"I'm very grateful because UPNVJ has truly helped me through my financial limitations. Throughout my studies, I never felt discriminated against," he said.
Despite receiving financial support for her education, Indria's academic journey hasn't always been smooth sailing. She faced mental stress and financial constraints, which made her studies even more challenging. Indria also admitted to not graduating on time, a reality that posed a challenge for her.
However, the delay didn't make Indria give up. She chose to persevere, completing each process slowly, and accepting that everyone has their own timeline.
"I've always believed that everyone has their own timeline. So, I focus on my own process and keep taking it slow," said Indria.
Despite these struggles, family has been Indria's greatest source of strength. She cites her mother and grandmother as the primary reasons she persevered in completing her studies. Earning her degree is not only a personal achievement, but also a tribute to her family, who have supported and prayed for her.
"My mother and grandmother have always been my motivation to stay strong, and I dedicate this title to them," he said.
For Indria, graduation is more than just a ceremony. It marks the end of her long struggle. She hopes her story will serve as a reminder to other students facing limitations, especially financial ones, to never lose confidence.
"Don't be discouraged by your circumstances. Keep believing in yourself and keep going, because limitations don't mean you can't reach your goals," he said.
Indria emphasized that limitations shouldn't be a reason to quit. Instead, they can be a motivation to keep striving and prove one's abilities.
“Limitations are not a reason to stop, but a reason to keep fighting,” said Indria.
Indria's story is a vivid illustration of how higher education can open up social mobility for students from diverse backgrounds. For UPNVJ, Indria's success aligns with the university's commitment to providing inclusive and equitable education and providing opportunities for students to develop to their full potential.