At just 18 years old, Soraya Esther Br. Sitanggang has achieved her dream of studying at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). Despite her mother Rosliana M. Sihotang’s hope that she would stay close to home and attend a university near Medan, Soraya remained firm in her ambition.
Through the academic excellence-based entrance selection (SNBP), she was accepted into the Accounting Program at the UGM Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB UGM).
Tuesday, Mar. 18, 2025, marked a historic and joyful day for Soraya. The anxiety and uncertainty of the previous days gave way to relief and gratitude. She still remembers the moment she received the news.
“I had just returned from school and checked the announcement. It turned blue; I ran straight to my mom, who was tidying up her stall,” said Soraya.
After hearing the news, her mother, Rosliana, was overcome with emotion. She described her feelings as a mix of joy, pride, and disbelief. While grateful for her daughter’s success, she was also burdened by worries about tuition costs.
In the midst of these concerns, Rosliana entrusted everything to prayer. Then, as if by miracle, a few weeks later, Soraya was informed that she had received a 100% tuition fee subsidy (UKT 0). This meant she could complete her studies at FEB UGM without incurring any charges.
“It felt like a heavy burden was being lifted,” said Rosliana. “I told Soraya to be grateful. This is not the end, but the beginning of a new journey.”
Letting her daughter study far from home was not an easy decision for Rosliana. However, knowing that UGM offers one of the best education opportunities, she accepted Soraya’s choice.
“I keep telling her to try her best, to work hard, and never forget to pray. Whatever path you choose in life, walk it with intention and responsibility,” she added.
Soraya grew up in modest circumstances. The youngest of four siblings, she lost her father to illness when she was only two years old. Her mother, Rosliana, became the sole breadwinner, supporting the family by running a small grocery stall from their home.
“That’s why I feel so relieved. Receiving the UKT 0 helps my mom a lot. Without it, the cost would’ve been too much for her. At least now, one burden has been lifted,” Soraya shared.
Growing up in a financially limited environment only made Soraya stronger. Since elementary school, she had a reputation for being determined and diligent. Her dedication to education also showed early, often volunteering to tutor her peers and younger students.
“I’ve always loved teaching. It makes me happy when others understand the material. That’s where my love for education started,” she said.
Soraya’s academic journey is marked by numerous achievements, both in and out of the classroom. From a young age, she participated in various competitions, ranging from quizzes to fashion shows.
In junior high, she consistently ranked at the top of her class and remained actively involved in school activities, eventually gaining admission to her dream school: SMAN 3 Medan, one of the most prestigious high schools in the city.
At SMAN 3 Medan, Soraya continued to excel. In 2023, she placed in the top 10 among 45,846 participants in the International Science Qualification Olympiad. She also won a gold medal at the Eduexpo Himatek USU Student Olympiad in 2024 and ranked among the Top 100 participants.
Additionally, she earned a silver medal in the Economics category of the 2024 International Medallion Student Competition hosted by the International Level Test Institution (ILTI).
Her accomplishments go beyond academics. Soraya was active in student organizations and served as Secretary of the Smantig Olympiad Team (TOS) from 2023 to 2025. She also held the position of Mathematics Coordinator from 2024 to 2025, mentoring students preparing for the National Science Olympiad.
“I hope to continue this at UGM. Being away from my family, I want to stay engaged in meaningful activities so I can continue to grow. I’d love to remain active in organizations and join competitions,” she added.
Soraya chose FEB UGM after careful consideration. Her passion for accounting had developed during her high school years while competing in economics olympiads.
“I did some research and found that FEB UGM is AACSB-accredited. That’s a big deal; it means top multinational companies recognize its graduates,” she explained.
The Medan native hopes to build a career in accounting. She also dreams of pursuing a master’s degree, earning professional certifications, and sharing her knowledge as a content creator in finance to help other young people become financially literate.
Reflecting on her journey, Soraya encourages others from underprivileged backgrounds to never lose hope.
“No matter how small your experience, it’s better than never trying. Don’t ever underestimate your dreams. Every dream is valuable and worth pursuing,” Soraya said.
Reporter: FEB UGM/Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
Author: Agung Nugroho