Amid the Computer-Based Written Exam-National Test Based Selection (UTBK-SNBT) at IPB University, there is the story of Yosef Rifaldi Nong Roy’s struggle. This participant from Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), willingly left his hometown to pursue his dream of becoming an accountant.
Since his teenage years, he has been accustomed to living far from his family. For six years, he has been away from home to pursue his education. Now in Bogor, he is studying at Budi Mulia High School while living in a dormitory.
“I live in Paledang, and for this UTBK, I chose the Accounting program,” he said.
IPB University is his top choice for this year’s UTBK-SNBT. He specifically selected the Applied Bachelor’s (D4) Accounting program as his area of focus.
This decision was influenced by a significant figure in his life. “I’m motivated by my aunt, since she’s also an accountant. She said accounting is in demand these days, and the job prospects are good too,” he explained.
He acknowledged that his journey hasn’t always been easy. With a relatively short preparation period, he had to learn quickly and adapt to the limitations he faced. “Maybe because the preparation time was short, I didn’t quite grasp it all,” he said.
Even so, he didn’t let that be an excuse to give up. He chose to keep fighting and make the most of every opportunity he had.
His parents’ support was a key factor in keeping him moving forward. For him, spending six years away from home wasn’t just a sacrifice, but part of the process of building a better future.
Looking ahead, he hopes to pass the selection process and continue his studies in the D4 Accounting program. He wants to delve deeper into the field as a foundation for securing a good job in the future. “Moving forward, I’ll just focus on pursuing my dream of becoming an accountant, following in my aunt’s footsteps,” he said.
Amid the intense competition of the UTBK, Yosef shared a simple message for other participants. “Don’t give up easily, keep trying. The outcome is in God’s hands, but if we’re willing to try, we can definitely succeed,” he advised.
Yosef’s story demonstrates that the courage to leave one’s hometown at a young age, coupled with determination and hard work, can pave the way to one’s dreams. (Fj) (IAAS/SSR)
