Jessy Wijaya (30) was among the 1,638 graduates of Universitas Gadjah Mada’s postgraduate programs who were conferred degrees at Grha Sabha Pramana on Tuesday (April 21). At this graduation ceremony, Jessy completed the Periodontics Specialist program at the Faculty of Dentistry (FKG UGM) in 2 years, 11 months, and 17 days, significantly shorter than the average study period of 3 years and 11 months among the 89 specialist graduates in this cohort. In addition to being recognized as the fastest graduate in the specialist program, she graduated with honors, achieving a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.97, compared to the program’s average GPA of 3.80.
Jessy explained that her achievement as the fastest graduate and the recipient of the highest GPA at this graduation was closely tied to her genuine interest in choosing Periodontics as her specialization. She noted that her earlier decision to enroll in the Master’s Program in Clinical Dental Science greatly contributed to her success in completing the specialist program more quickly.
Through the program, she gained a strong theoretical foundation, allowing her to focus more on advancing knowledge during her specialist studies. She considers her high GPA a byproduct of the learning process she experienced throughout her studies.
“Honestly, I never aimed to graduate the fastest or achieve the highest GPA. It all happened because I truly enjoy Periodontics, so whatever I studied never felt burdensome and instead motivated me to keep learning,” she said on Thursday (April 30).
She shared that her academic journey, from undergraduate studies to completing her specialist education at FKG UGM, has been a place of continuous learning and personal growth. Her motivation throughout the specialist program was strongly supported by her family, lecturers, academic supervisors, and fellow residents.
“I am grateful for the prayers and constant support of my family throughout this journey, along with the dedication of my lecturers who guided and motivated me to excel and graduate on time, as well as my fellow residents who fostered a supportive and positive learning environment,” she added.
In addition, Jessy noted that her research, from undergraduate to specialist level, has consistently focused on tissue regeneration, particularly the supporting tissues around teeth. This research, she said, contributes to more comprehensive dental and oral healthcare.
During her specialist studies, Jessy acknowledged facing challenges, including fulfilling clinical case requirements and investing in surgical equipment. However, the adequate facilities provided by the Periodontics program enabled her to perform complex surgical techniques comfortably.
She also had the opportunity to participate in various international seminars and competitions, which provided invaluable experience. She attended the Asia Pacific Society of Periodontology seminar in Vietnam in 2024 and participated in the 5th Postgraduate Research Day competition at Universiti Sains Malaysia.
“Both experiences broadened my perspective and network,” she said.
After earning her specialist dentist degree, Jessy expressed her intention to immediately apply the knowledge she has gained to treat patients while continuing to learn, both by deepening her knowledge and skills through further formal education.
“I want to immediately apply what I have learned by treating my future patients,” she concluded.
Author: Jesi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Zabrina Kumara
Photo: Courtesy of Jessy