Buono Aji Santoso (30) appeared radiant as he delivered a welcoming speech at the send-off and thanksgiving ceremony for postgraduate graduates at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM). He was among 17 master’s graduates who achieved a perfect Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.00 at the UGM Postgraduate Graduation Ceremony held on April 22-23, 2026, at Grha Sabha Pramana UGM (GSP UGM). A graduate of the Master of Accounting Program at FEB UGM, he completed his studies in 1 year, 6 months, and 21 days. Meanwhile, the average study duration for master’s graduates in this period was 2 years and 1 month, with an average GPA of 3.75.
Behind his gratitude for completing his master’s education with outstanding achievement, Buono could not hide his sadness. His mother was unable to witness his joyful moment, as she had passed away at the end of March.
“I believe my mother was happy to hear the news. I can still remember the expression on her face. However, she also apologized for not being able to attend my graduation in April,” he said on Thursday (Apr. 23).
The loss of his mother left a deep sorrow, especially as she could not witness his graduation at GSP. Nevertheless, he held firmly to her encouragement and advice to continue striving and learning throughout his life.
Buono revealed that completing his master’s studies was not easy and required a long, challenging process.
Buono has been a civil servant at the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform (PANRB) since 2018. He began his career as an auditor, serving not only as a supervisor of state financial management but also as a consultant, ensuring that public budget utilization delivers optimal benefits for society.
Driven by a desire to enhance his capacity and contribute more significantly to the public sector, Buono decided to pursue a Master of Accounting degree at FEB UGM in August 2024.
“I found that this program focuses on public sector accounting and collaborates with BPKP to improve the quality of internal government auditors. Through this, I want to ensure that every rupiah from the state budget truly provides value for money and contributes to public welfare,” he explained.
During his studies, Buono applied strong discipline in learning. He strived to remain focused during lectures, actively participated in discussions, and took notes on key points for further review.
Amid his responsibilities as a professional and a family man, he carefully managed his time, making use of every available moment to study and complete assignments.
He also achieved several accomplishments, including being named Best Presenter at the International Student Conference organized by the Faculty of Business, Widya Mandala Surabaya Catholic University. For him, this was his most proud achievement.
“It was my first time participating in an international conference, and with what I considered limited English-speaking skills, my presentation was well-received and earned the Best Presenter award. This motivates me to continue improving in the future,” he said.
However, his academic journey was not always smooth. He faced challenges in balancing his studies and family responsibilities.
“At times, it was very difficult to divide my time between studying and family. I always wanted to maintain a balance between my academic pursuits and my role as a father,” he said.
He admitted to experiencing a setback after receiving an unsatisfactory result on one of his early-semester exams. The experience made him concerned about his academic performance.
However, Buono did not dwell on disappointment. Instead, he chose to rise by focusing more on his studies and challenging himself to improve for the final exams.
“The most valuable lesson I learned from that experience is to never give up until the end. I believe that when we have put in the effort and worked hard, whatever the result, I can accept it sincerely rather than giving up early,” he stated.
Buono implemented a disciplined and consistent study strategy. He made it a habit to stay fully focused during lectures, actively engage in discussions, and take notes for further study. In addition, he managed his time effectively by prioritizing academic, professional, and family responsibilities.
During his studies at FEB UGM, Buono acknowledged that integrity and professionalism became the core values shaping his character and mindset. He approached every academic process with responsibility and upheld honesty.
According to him, professionalism is reflected in the commitment to delivering the best quality in every task, not merely fulfilling obligations.
Behind his academic achievements, Buono also faced significant life challenges. While working on his thesis, he had to accompany his mother, who had been diagnosed with stage 4 thyroid cancer. In this situation, he was motivated to complete his studies to the best of his ability and give his best to his mother, who had always supported him.
Looking ahead, he is committed to applying the knowledge he has gained in his role as an auditor at the Ministry of PANRB, sharing insights with colleagues, and contributing to improving public financial governance. With the knowledge he has acquired, Buono is determined to continue contributing to the public sector while also opening opportunities to pursue doctoral studies in the future.
Buono also shared advice on how students can complete their studies optimally. He emphasized the importance of doing one’s best in every process and not giving up easily.
“By continuing to try and experience failure, we actually learn many valuable lessons. Do not become easily satisfied, and always strengthen the desire to improve our capacity and knowledge,” he concluded.
Reporter: Shofi Hawa Anjani / FEB Public Relations
Author: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum / FEB Public Relations
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Jasmine Ferdian
Photo: FEB UGM Public Relations