Pursuing higher education up to the doctoral level, especially abroad, is certainly not an easy path. For Andhika Satria Pratama, an alumnus of Engineering Physics at the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Engineering Physics (DTNTF), UGM Faculty of Engineering (FT UGM), this journey reflects his curiosity, persistence, and determination to continue advancing his knowledge. Pratama is currently a doctoral candidate (Ph.D. candidate) in thermodynamics and fluid dynamics at Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden.
Since his undergraduate years at UGM, Pratama has shown a strong interest in fluid mechanics. He explained that this interest emerged during his bachelor’s studies, when he took courses in mechanical fluid dynamics. This interest has continued to motivate him to explore the field more deeply.
“I have always been interested in this field and wanted to learn more. Mechanical fluid dynamics is well-known for being mathematically challenging, but that is precisely what makes it fascinating,” he said during the Alumni Sharing Session held in a hybrid format through Zoom and in Classroom 7 DTNTF, FT UGM, on Thursday (Nov. 6).
Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in 2020, Pratama was among the students who joined the fast-track program to pursue a master’s degree at UGM. He enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering master’s program and graduated in 2021 with a GPA of 3.98. In 2022, Pratama continued his master’s studies at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden, enrolling in the Engineering Mathematics and Computational Science program. He later received a tuition-free scholarship to pursue his doctoral studies in Sweden.
Pratama admitted that at the beginning of his studies in Sweden, he was surprised by the fast and intensive learning pace. Even so, he adapted within a few months because the university provided effective study tips, guidance, and extensive learning opportunities.
“Since Chalmers is also a member of Nordic Five Tech (N5T), I was able to join a Summer Course at DTU Technical University of Denmark without paying additional tuition fees, although I still had to cover living expenses,” he explained.
Unlike in Indonesia, Pratama works as a researcher in the Fluid Dynamics Division at Chalmers University as part of his doctoral program. Each day, he goes to his research office and actively participates in departmental academic activities.
“I also have department duties, including teaching. I serve as a teaching assistant for several courses. If accumulated, it’s roughly six months for teaching, one year for coursework, and the remaining three years focused on research,” he said.
Pratama also shared advice and motivation for students, especially his peers from Engineering Physics who are interested in pursuing studies abroad. He emphasized that it is important for students to understand the field they truly want to study. According to him, knowing one’s academic interests makes the learning process more enjoyable and manageable.
He also encouraged students to be bold and not hesitate to apply to universities abroad. Pratama added that scholarship opportunities are now widely available.
“Don’t be afraid to apply for studies overseas. We have a strong foundation at UGM, one that is already on par with those of universities around the world. If you’re worried about finances, explore the available scholarship options because there are plenty, not only in Sweden but also in other countries. Be open to all possibilities,” Pratama concluded.
Author: Lintang Andwyna
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya