
Christopher Ernesto Budi (28) was among the 917 graduates of Universitas Gadjah Mada’s Graduate Program conferred at the Grha Sabha Pramana on Wednesday (Jul. 23). On this occasion, Christopher successfully completed the Periodontics Specialty Program at the Faculty of Dentistry (FKG UGM) within three years, earning the distinction of being the youngest medical specialty graduate during this ceremony.
Christopher attributed his achievement at such a young age to perseverance, strict time management, and strong personal commitment, despite the challenge of balancing coursework and professional practice.
“I worked at the hospital from morning to afternoon, then practiced in the evening. I usually did academic assignments from nine at night until the early morning,” Christopher said on Tuesday (Aug. 12).
He admitted that the routine was far from balanced, yet it was a necessary part of his journey. After earning his bachelor’s degree in dentistry from UGM, Christopher chose to continue directly into the specialty program just one year after graduation.
This swift decision was influenced by his strong compatibility with the field and the early opportunity available to him. He noted that becoming a dentist had not been his initial plan, but his interest grew deeply over time.
“At first, I never imagined becoming a dentist. But after studying at UGM, I found that I really enjoyed and fit into the field, so I pursued the specialty, which is still relatively rare,” he explained.
Christopher shared that his greatest motivation in completing his studies and becoming the youngest graduate came from his family. Coming from a working-class background, he was driven by the desire to elevate his parents’ standing.
“I know that sending me to dental school was not an easy thing. So, all of this is to make my parents proud,” he said.
Known for his humility and determination, Christopher worked tirelessly, often sacrificing his sleep to balance his responsibilities, while also actively building connections and embracing his educational experience at UGM as an opportunity for personal growth.
“I feel fortunate to have studied at UGM because not everyone gets that chance,” he added.
He also offered a message to students and juniors to remain consistent in their efforts and never be easily satisfied with their achievements. In his view, hard work pursued with sincerity will yield results, as long as one does not give up and remains humble.
“Finish what you have started and never be arrogant. Believe that everything you do and sacrifice will eventually pay off,” he advised.
Christopher’s success as the youngest graduate of the specialty program is not only a personal accomplishment but also proof of UGM’s commitment to producing outstanding professionals in the health sector. FKG UGM consistently advances dental education through a curriculum grounded in research, service, and community engagement.
In an environment rich with collaboration and social awareness, students like Christopher are shaped into professionals who are not only clinically skilled but also empathetic and deeply committed to service. His achievement reinforces Universitas Gadjah Mada’s position as a leading, independent, and impactful institution of higher learning.
Christopher’s story is one of many from UGM students proving that hard work, sincerity, and commitment will always find their way to success.
Author: Bolivia Rahmawati
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photographs: Christopher Ernesto Budi