Director of Government Affairs at Microsoft Indonesia, Widya Listyowulan, shared her insights on building a successful career in the industry before 1,452 UGM postgraduate prospective graduates on Tuesday (Apr. 22) at Grha Sabha Pramana.
The UGM Faculty of Philosophy alumna also reflected on her experiences and offered practical advice to graduates preparing to enter the workforce.
Listyowulan emphasized the value of UGM’s alumni network, which she said plays a crucial role in recruitment decisions. This network, she noted, gave her an advantage over other applicants during the hiring process.
“I remember being asked if I graduated from UGM, and that alone helped me stand out from other candidates,” she recalled.
Having previously worked for Amazon and Traveloka, Listyowulan also explained that UGM’s reputation gives its alumni a competitive edge in the eyes of recruiters and employers.
She experienced this firsthand while pursuing further studies in the United States, where her colleagues described UGM alumni as humble yet vocal and critical individuals.
As for career preparation, Listyowulan encouraged graduates to start by accepting available jobs and taking a pragmatic approach. She advised them to gain experience while planning their next steps and continuously seek opportunities that align with their strengths.
For her, a good job is not merely defined by salary but also by comfort, family life, and mental well-being.
“Between the ages of 27 and 35, we often seek many changes in life. As UGM graduates, we carry that reputation and must use our abilities to contribute meaningfully. Don’t be afraid to take the wrong step, and never give up,” said Listyowulan.
On the same occasion, UGM Vice-Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni Dr. Arie Sujito congratulated the prospective graduates on earning their postgraduate degrees.
He reminded them to uphold integrity and honesty as they apply their knowledge in the workforce and serve society.
“We strive to always be the best, and that commitment must be maintained through continued communication between the university and its alumni in all aspects,” she concluded.
Author: Lazuardi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya
Photographer: Donnie