Depok, August 14, 2025 — The second day of the Faculty Academic System Introduction (PSAF) at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Indonesia (FMIPA UI), was filled with enthusiasm and inspiration. On Thursday (14/8), held at the Prof. Dr. Ir. Soemantri Brodjonegoro Hall, UI Campus, Depok, the event featured several alumni from various batches who have achieved remarkable accomplishments in different fields.
Through a talk show titled “Own Your Story: Rise as Ksatria MIPA,” new students were invited to explore their potential through the stories of inspiring alumni. One of the speakers, Gregorius Tendi (Biology 2022), a gold medalist at the 2022 International Biology Olympiad in Armenia and a Top 20 finalist in the 2024 Ruangguru Clash of Champions, shared his journey in developing academic talents while maintaining a competitive spirit.
“Don’t be afraid to try and fail. From failure, I learned to build strategies and recognize my own strengths,” said Tendi, known as a student with a high spirit for learning.
Meanwhile, Devan Yulio Setiawan, S.Si. (Geography 2016), a content creator popular among millennials and Gen Z, highlighted another aspect of creativity: the courage to be honest with oneself. With his distinctive style, Devan emphasized that every individual has a unique way of expressing themselves, and that uniqueness should be their strength.
“Sometimes, the best motivation comes from things that make us feel uncomfortable. The key is to turn that into fuel for continuous growth,” said Devan, known for his “demotivation” content approach—a style that turns feelings of pessimism into a driving force to move forward.
For him, creativity is not about perfection, but the courage to be authentic and turn it into a meaningful story.
The next session, titled “FMIPA Students Who Know Themselves Can Produce Meaningful Work,” featured alumni who have contributed to social and community empowerment. One of them was Veronica Angelina Windy (Mathematics 2015), a finalist in Puteri Indonesia 2023 who earned the title of Puteri Indonesia Berbakat. She shared her story of bridging her passion for mathematics with community service, particularly through teaching activities in Papua.
“We must seek the uniqueness within ourselves that can sharpen our soft skills and benefit the wider community. Failure can actually guide us in the right direction,” Veronica explained, encouraging new students to cultivate empathy and social responsibility.
From a similar background, Naysa Ekhaputri (Mathematics 2020), founder of the social movement Rumah Peri Kecil, also inspired the audience by sharing how her passion for children and education has shaped her journey to this day.
“We must be ourselves without having to follow others’ expectations. Work according to your passion, with commitment and consistency,” said Naysa, who is now actively educating children through her social programs.
From the industrial and professional sector, Fathul Nugroho, S.Si., MPP (Physics 1999), who currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Indonesian Coal, Energy, and Mineral Suppliers Association (ASPEBINDO), was also present. In a session met with great enthusiasm, Fathul emphasized the importance of building networks and character while still in college.
“Knowledge equips you, networks open the way. Both become valuable assets as we step into a new chapter of life,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of resilience and optimism in facing the post-campus world. “Be smart, be a hard worker, be creative and productive, and most importantly, always believe that every process has its own time,” he concluded.
Through the presence of inspiring alumni, PSAF FMIPA UI 2025 served not only as a forum for introducing the academic system but also as a space for reflection and character building. In line with the messages delivered by the speakers, success is not solely about academic achievements, but also about the courage to know oneself, build networks, and contribute meaningfully to society.
