Misye Qiera Prameswari (18) recently went viral on social media after her mother shared a touching message celebrating her eldest child’s acceptance into the Philosophy program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) through the 2026 SNBP admission track.
According to her mother, education is not merely a means to secure employment but a process of cultivating wisdom.
“Study what you love. If you love what you learn, the results will follow,” her mother said.
In a phone interview, Qiera shared that her decision to pursue studies at the Faculty of Philosophy, Universitas Gadjah Mada (Philosophy UGM) was the result of a long process. Since childhood, she had been immersed in a culture of reading and discussion. Her parents encouraged her curiosity and imagination rather than limiting them.
However, her experience in formal education was different. The critical questions she raised were often perceived by her classmates as a sign of a lack of focus.
“I was even once considered a slow learner because I asked too many questions,” she said on Saturday (May 2).
A significant turning point came when her family decided to move to Pagelaran Village, Malang Regency, East Java. There, her parents established an educational community called Omah Sinau, which focuses on improving access to literacy through a mobile library. She often accompanied her father traveling around the village, bringing books to encourage children to develop a love for reading.
On one occasion, while accompanying her father, Qiera witnessed firsthand the disparity in access to education. Many of the children she met were encountering books for the first time or learning about the world beyond their immediate surroundings. This experience became a moment of realization for her that critical thinking skills and access to education are privileges.
“I saw children who were just getting to know books for the first time, and it deeply moved me,” she recalled.
In addition, the values instilled by her family played a significant role in shaping her character. Her passion for reading introduced her to the thoughts of prominent figures and national founders. One idea that left a lasting impression on her was Tan Malaka’s view on responsibility toward the nation and rural communities.
Over time, she began to see philosophy as an essential foundation for understanding reality and contributing to society. Together with a community that has now developed into the Good Village Project, she envisions creating a learning space grounded in critical thinking, which she calls Sekolah Athena.
Qiera’s interest in social sciences had also emerged at an early age. It evolved from psychology and sociology to international relations. However, she ultimately chose philosophy as her field of study to better understand the foundations of human thought.
“Philosophy offers a broad and holistic way of thinking. It can be applied to all aspects of life,” she explained.
She also believes that philosophy is increasingly relevant in the era of technological advancement and artificial intelligence.
“Amid automation, human critical and reflective thinking becomes an irreplaceable value,” she said.
During her studies at UGM, Qiera intends to actively participate in various activities, including traditional dance, debate, and Model United Nations (MUN). She also plans to engage in communities focusing on education and women’s issues. In addition, she hopes to integrate philosophical studies with public policy, believing that leaders grounded in philosophical thinking are better equipped to make critical and comprehensive decisions.
“For me, university is not just about finding a job, but about building a way of thinking and contributing to society,” she concluded.
Author: Jelita Agustine
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Zabrina Kumara
Photo: Courtesy of Qiera