No dream is easy to achieve. It takes sacrifice, hard work, and unwavering determination. At first, Putri Khasanah (18) thought pursuing higher education would remain out of reach. But that dream has now become a reality. Putri was accepted into the Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technology program at the UGM Vocational College through the academic excellence-based entrance selection (SNBP). In addition, she was granted a full tuition subsidy from UGM.
“It feels like a dream come true,” said Putri on Thursday, Jun. 26, 2026.
A native of Bambanglipuro, Bantul, Putri is the second of three children.
Her father, Adil (48), works as a mobile street vendor, while her mother is a homemaker. Adil’s income is inconsistent, averaging just IDR 500,000 per month.
When Adil learned that Putri had been admitted to UGM without an entrance exam, he was overjoyed.
She would be the first in the family to attend university, as both her parents and older sibling graduated from high school or equivalent.
Adil initially worried about the tuition fees but was immensely relieved to learn that his daughter had been granted a 100% subsidy.
“I’m so grateful that Putri received a tuition subsidy from UGM,” said Adil, emotionally.
He admitted he never imagined that his daughter would have the opportunity to pursue a university education, let alone be accepted into a prestigious institution like UGM.
“This is the first time. Putri will be the first college graduate in our family,” he added.
Excelling in Math Competitions
Despite financial challenges, Putri never let hardship stop her from achieving excellence.
Since junior high school, she has actively competed in various regional and national competitions.
“I started joining competitions in middle school. My first was a mathematics competition,” said Putri.
Her debut earned her a bronze medal in the 2020 Science GO Mathematics competition, which fueled her motivation to join more contests.
A self-proclaimed math enthusiast, Putri participated in numerous competitions organized by universities and foundations.
“I love math because it’s the foundation of all sciences, and my math teacher made the subject fun,” she shared.
She proudly showcased several certificates and gold and bronze medals earned during her time at SMAN 1 Bambanglipuro, including a gold medal in the 2023 National Science Olympiad Week (POSN) in Mathematics, organized by the Indonesian Center for Achievement Foundation, and a semifinalist certificate from the 2022 UIN Sunan Kalijaga Mathematics Olympiad (OMSUKA).
While in school, Putri studied independently to avoid burdening her parents.
Financial constraints meant she couldn’t afford tutoring like many of her peers.
Still, she never gave up.
Instead, she turned to free online learning platforms, such as YouTube educational videos and online practice tests.
“I usually use YouTube to supplement my studies. Before competitions, I practice using exercises I find online,” Putri explained.
Now that she has secured a full scholarship to study at the UGM Vocational College, Putri is determined to make the most of the opportunity.
She dreams of working at the Indonesian state electricity company (PLN), hoping that the career will uplift her family’s future.
“I want to make my parents proud,” she said tearfully.
Putri’s pursuit of education despite economic hardship is an inspiring example.
Her story proves that hard work never betrays results and that a spirit of perseverance brings just rewards.
Author: Tiefany
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photographer: Donnie