Ulfatun Nikmah (26), Accounting Science 2021, is one of the 1,187 Master’s Program graduates conferred degrees on Wednesday (Apr. 24).
This young woman, born in Jepara, graduated cum laude by completing her studies in the Master’s Program in Accounting Science in 1 year, ten months, and 24 days, achieving a GPA of 3.89.
This success marks a significant achievement in Nikmah’s life. She never imagined that her father’s work as a freelance woodcarver in the village of Wedelan, Jepara Regency, Central Java, would enable her to earn a master’s degree.
Growing up in a modest family, accessing higher education was a luxury. Her father, Muhlasin (54), was the sole breadwinner, working as a freelance woodcarver with an unstable monthly income. Her mother, Masruroh (48), was a housewife.
Nikmah’s journey to achieving her dreams was not easy. Her parents strongly opposed her when she wanted to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
It wasn’t that they didn’t support her education, but they repeatedly reminded her of the family’s financial constraints, making it challenging to afford her college education, especially since they also had to support her younger sibling’s schooling.
“My father didn’t allow me to continue to a bachelor’s degree, and the same happened when I wanted to pursue a master’s degree because we couldn’t afford it. However, I am a persistent child, so I kept explaining to my parents that if I went to college, I could get a decent job and help fund my sibling’s education,” she recalled.
With determination and a burning spirit, Nikmah strived to excel in school. Her diligence and hard work paid off, consistently ranking among the top elementary through vocational school students. She often represented her school in various competitions.
Her achievements earned her admission to a bachelor’s program at a state university in Semarang through a merit-based route. She also received a Bidikmisi scholarship for high-achieving students from low-income families. Nikmah furthered her studies at UGM for her master’s degree with a scholarship from LPDP RI.
During her undergraduate and master’s studies, Nikmah worked part-time, tutoring school children and participating in various projects with her university peers.
Muhlasin is profoundly grateful and proud that his daughter has achieved her dream of higher education, even to the master’s level. Initially, he found it challenging to let Nikmah attend university due to financial constraints.
Muhlasin never imagined his eldest daughter could experience college. This achievement quenched Muhlasin’s thirst for education, as financial difficulties had prevented him from continuing to high school. He had to be content with completing his education at the junior high level.
“I hope Nikmah will become a successful person who can benefit society, the nation, and the country,” he said.
Despite being born into a family with limited financial means, Nikmah has proven that economic constraints are not obstacles to higher education.
Author: FEB UGM/Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
Editor: Gusti Grehenson