Eziel Ivander David Simbolon was among the 1,762 graduates of UGM’s Undergraduate and Applied Bachelor’s programs who graduated on Thursday (May 21) at Grha Sabha Pramana. A graduate of the Forest Management Study Program at the Vocational College of Universitas Gadjah Mada (SV UGM), he earned his Applied Bachelor’s degree at the age of 21 years, 2 months, and 12 days. In comparison, the average age of the 118 Applied Bachelor’s graduates in this graduation period was 23 years, 6 months, and 16 days.
Eziel admitted that Forest Management was not his first choice of study. However, as he progressed through his academic journey and gained deeper knowledge of forestry, he developed a strong interest in the field and came to appreciate the breadth of topics it encompasses. His family’s oil palm plantation business in Riau also motivated him to remain committed to the discipline.
“Forestry is not only about timber. We study conservation, environmental issues, social aspects, and economic management,” he said on Tuesday (Jun. 9).
Eziel said he never had a strong ambition to become one of the youngest graduates. According to him, he completed his education according to a normal timeline without any acceleration program, although he started elementary school at a younger age than most of his peers.
In addition, his aspiration to become an entrepreneur in the palm oil sector has made him realize that he still has much to learn before establishing his own business. He believes that his current knowledge remains insufficient and continues to motivate him to broaden his expertise.
“I want to become an entrepreneur in the palm oil industry. To achieve that goal, I need to equip myself with extensive knowledge before I can continue the family business or even build one of my own,” said Eziel.
In closing, he encouraged his peers to always rely on God throughout their life journeys. He advised them not to give up easily when facing challenges and to trust the process they are going through.
Author: Jesi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photo: Courtesy of Eziel