Andini Dwi Lestari had dreamed of studying at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) since elementary school. She excelled throughout school, often ranking first from elementary through senior high school. At SMA Negeri 1 Cirebon, she graduated as the top student in the Social Sciences track, the school’s highest-ranked student eligible for the National Selection Based on Achievement (SNBP). She also represented her school in the 2025 Cirebon City National Science Olympiad in economics.
Behind these achievements, her family’s unwavering support has been Andini’s greatest source of strength. Her parents have always instilled the values of honesty, discipline, and seeking God’s blessings in every endeavor.
The family’s joy grew even greater when Andini was admitted to the Management Study Program at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM), through SNBP. Their happiness deepened after learning that she had received UGM’s 100 percent subsidized tuition scholarship. Previously, her mother was concerned about the cost of higher education, including tuition, living expenses, and accommodation in Yogyakarta.
“Alhamdulillah, I’m so happy to see that my tuition fee is zero rupiah. It really helps ease my family’s financial burden for my education,” said Andini on Wednesday (Jul. 8).
Meanwhile, her mother, Siti Patonah, shared that she and her husband, Suryanto, have always encouraged their children to pursue higher education. Siti, a senior high school graduate, and her husband, who completed junior high school, hope that Andini will enjoy opportunities beyond those they had. Although they were worried about the financial burden, they remained determined to support her education.
“The important thing was for Andini to get into university first. As for the costs, we believed there would always be a way, including applying for scholarships,” said Siti.
Siti explained that she and her husband, who works at an auto repair shop in Cirebon, have always taught their children the importance of prayer, perseverance, and never giving up. They want every day to be an opportunity to become a better person than the day before.
“I always remind Andini never to lose hope, to keep striving, and to keep praying. Today should be better than yesterday, and tomorrow should be better than today. Never disappoint your father and mother,” she said.
She also expressed her gratitude to UGM for allowing her daughter the opportunity to study at the university and for providing full tuition assistance.
“Thank you to UGM for accepting Andini and granting her a full tuition subsidy. I hope she makes the most of this opportunity, treats it as a responsibility, and achieves her dreams so this assistance truly makes a difference,” she said.
Andini’s journey to FEB UGM is a proud moment for her family and a testament to the fact that great dreams can be achieved through hard work, prayer, and the support of loved ones.
According to Andini, the key to maintaining academic excellence lies in effective time management and clear priorities. She balances studying, leisure, and other activities.
“I always remind myself of my long-term dream of becoming an entrepreneur, and that motivates me to keep learning,” she said.
Andini also encouraged other students who are still pursuing their dreams not to give up.
“Keep studying, keep striving, and keep praying. If we sincerely do our best, there will always be a way,” she said.
Reporter: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum/FEB Public Relations
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Jasmine Ferdian
Photo: FEB UGM Public Relations Documentation