Anton Jimmi Suwandy, Marketing Director of PT Toyota Astra Motor, shared his insights with 841 Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) postgraduate students at Grha Sabha Pramana on Wednesday (Jan. 22).
The Mechanical Engineering alumnus of UGM recounted his career journey, rising from an entry-level employee to becoming the marketing director of a major automobile trading company.
Suwandy emphasized that graduates should choose workplaces with values that promote growth in a positive environment. As a 1995 graduate of Mechanical Engineering, he credited his career success to the company’s values.
“Two principles I always hold onto are the willingness to improve and respect for people. These philosophies have helped me identify opportunities and continuously grow,” he said.
He explained that career success depends not solely on technical skills but also on the values and mindset applied at work.
He stressed the importance of maintaining good relationships with customers and the surrounding environment, as trust is the cornerstone of the professional world.
For Suwandy, providing excellent service is about offering products and creating sustainable value. He encouraged graduates from all UGM programs to believe in their abilities and aim high.
“We need to be confident and continuously strive for self-improvement because competition will always be there,” he advised.
Dr. Wirastuti Widyatmanti, Head of UGM’s Strategic Management Bureau, echoed these sentiments. She urged graduates to be confident and strive to make a tangible contribution in various sectors.
She also highlighted the importance of the Kagama alumni network as a vital asset for maximizing career opportunities.
“We encourage prospective alumni to remain confident, keep learning, and prove that UGM graduates can achieve brilliant careers,” she said.
Destina Kawanti, Deputy Secretary General of Kagama, delivered a similar message, reminding graduates that their academic achievements come with great responsibility.
She emphasized that Kagama is not just an alumni community but a family ready to support and collaborate.
“We are all the face of UGM in society, so carry the good name of this alma mater to both national and international levels,” she urged.
Through this briefing session, UGM encouraged its prospective graduates to recognize the significant potential they possess as UGM alumni.
Graduates were inspired to pursue personal success and make a positive impact on society. UGM hopes this moment will equip them to face a future full of opportunities.
Author: Bolivia
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photographer: Donnie