Depok, August 18, 2026 — The 2026 Faculty Academic System Introduction (PSAF) program at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Indonesia (FMIPA UI), entered its second day by equipping new students with insights into academic life, personal development, and career readiness. One of the main agendas was an alumni talk show featuring three FMIPA UI alumni with career experience across various fields.

A total of 892 new undergraduate students at FMIPA UI participated in the 2026 PSAF program from August 11–13, 2026. The program was part of the students’ transition process following the Universitas Indonesia New Student Campus Life Introduction (PKKMB), held from August 3–10, 2026.

The alumni talk show featured Cecilia Patra Dewanty, a Graduate Geophysicist at British Petroleum from the Department of Geophysics; Kyla Theophillia, an Analyst at Deloitte from the Actuarial Science Study Program; and Bianca Raissa Gita Allisha, an HR professional at Nestlé from the Department of Chemistry. The three alumni shared their experiences as students and their journeys into the professional world.

One of the key messages highlighted during the talk show was the importance of making the most of university life as an opportunity for exploration. Experiences in student organizations, competitions, internships, student exchange programs, and interactions with students from different cohorts can help students identify their interests while developing the skills they will need after graduation.

Cecilia encouraged students to start developing a vision for the direction they want to pursue. According to her, envisioning the position they hope to achieve in the next few years can help students determine the experiences and steps they need to build throughout their studies.

“It is important to have a vision. Try to imagine where you want to be five years from now. From there, we can start determining the steps and experiences we need to pursue during university,” said Cecilia.

Cecilia also highlighted the significant impact that organizational activities and competitions had on her career journey. In addition to gaining valuable experience, these activities helped her build a network of connections that remained valuable even after entering the professional world.

Meanwhile, Bianca emphasized that students should not feel left behind if they have not yet gained extensive experience. According to her, university is an opportunity to try various activities until they find a field that aligns with their interests and abilities.

“Don’t be afraid or feel left behind. University is actually the right time to explore different things until we find what we truly enjoy,” said Bianca.

Bianca’s experience demonstrates that career paths do not always follow a linear trajectory aligned with one’s field of study. Her interest in Human Resources began to grow while she was actively involved in activities related to human resource development during her university years. Her organizational experience also helped her develop soft skill, hard skill, and the ability to navigate various situations, which later proved valuable in the professional world.

Meanwhile, Kyla encouraged students to seize various opportunities during their university years. According to her, experiences through internships, student exchange programs, organizations, and other activities can broaden their perspectives while helping them identify the fields that best suit their interests and abilities.

“The more opportunities we take, the more experience we gain. Through these experiences, we can better understand ourselves and identify the fields that are the best fit for us,” said Kyla.

The three alumni have pursued different career paths. Cecilia currently works in the fields of geophysics and oil and gas, including involvement in analytical processes to determine drilling locations. Bianca has built her career in Human Resources at Nestlé, while Kyla has pursued a career in consulting as an Analyst at Deloitte.

These different career journeys demonstrate that career choices can be shaped by experiences gained during university. Therefore, students are encouraged not to limit themselves too quickly to a single field and to make the most of their time at university by exploring various opportunities.

During the session, the three alumni also shared their perspectives on the importance of internship experience. They encouraged students not to hesitate to apply and not to wait until they feel they have sufficient experience. A first internship does not necessarily have to be at a large company; rather, it can serve as an opportunity to learn and gain an understanding of the professional world.

Kyla specifically encouraged students to gain more internship experience and participate in student exchange programs. According to her, these experiences can provide new perspectives on the world beyond university while also expanding their professional networks.

In addition to career development, the use of ( (AI) was also one of the topics discussed. Kyla reminded students to use such technology wisely and not to rely on it as a substitute for critical thinking skills.

“AI can be used as a supporting tool, but it should never prevent us from thinking for ourselves. Use AI wisely and continue to understand the processes behind the work we do,” said Kyla.

Bianca added that the development of AI is inevitable, so students need to learn how to use it appropriately. According to her, students should continue conducting their own research and not immediately accept all the information provided by AI.

Meanwhile, Cecilia emphasized the importance of taking responsibility for the work carried out, even when using AI as a supporting tool. Users must still understand the work and be able to take responsibility for the results.

In addition to the alumni talk show, the second day of PSAF featured a session on the academic system and coursework for regular students, delivered by FMIPA UI Education Manager Dr. Fevi Novkaniza, S.Si., M.Si. The session provided students with an understanding of the academic processes they will go through throughout their studies.

Information on the academic system for the International Class Program (KKI) was presented by Gamal Gymnastyar, S.Si., a staff member of the FMIPA UI KKI Unit. Students gained an overview of the learning system and academic services available through the program.

The series of activities also included the creation of vertical garden with Rumah Peduli Iklim (RUMPI). The activity encouraged new students to participate in greening and beautifying the campus area while fostering environmental awareness through simple and creative activities.

New students then took part in the MIPA Safari to become more familiar with the FMIPA UI environment and facilities that will be part of their daily lives throughout their university studies. The activity helped students understand the various spaces and facilities available within the faculty.

In addition, the creative mentoring session provided a space for students to interact, develop ideas, and explore their potential beyond academic activities.

The 2026 PSAF series began with a welcome ceremony for new students by the FMIPA UI leadership. Dean of FMIPA UI, Prof. Dr. Tito Latif Indra, M.Si., referred to the new students as “young knights” and “Pioneers of National Science,” reminding them that being admitted to FMIPA UI marks the beginning of a journey to develop their ways of thinking, learning, and addressing various challenges.