In order to recruit competent prospective students who are ready to pursue internationally standardized education, the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), conducted interview sessions as part of the selection process for the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) admission track on 27 July 2025. The interview serves as a final stage of the selection process to assess academic readiness, English communication skills, and applicants’ motivation in pursuing internationally standardized education.
Dyana Rakhmasari Kusumaningsih, S.E., M.Ec.Dev., Head of the Academic and Student Affairs Task Force of FKG UGM, stated that the IUP track was established to address the increasingly complex dynamics of dental education needs. According to her, FKG UGM seeks students who are not only academically excellent but also committed to continuous learning and contributing through the dental profession. “We want to shape graduates who are adaptable, open-minded, and socially aware in carrying out their profession,” she said.
During the interview session, participants were given a set of questions designed to explore their character and mindset. The topics included how they deal with failure and their perspectives on the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the academic sphere. All of these questions aimed to evaluate applicants’ motivation, maturity of thought, and personal values.
Dian, one of the participants from Bogor, expressed that her interest in dentistry began when she was in high school. She saw the field as a combination of science, clinical skills, and patient interaction. “I feel this major is about caring for the quality of people’s lives, especially in the area of dental and oral health,” she said.
Furthermore, Dian mentioned FKG UGM as one of her top choices from the very beginning due to its strong academic track record. International accreditation was one of the reasons that strengthened her decision, along with the opportunity to participate in student exchange programs with partner universities abroad. “I want to study in an environment that not only excels academically but also encourages its students to be active in international forums,” she concluded.
Author and Photographer: Fajar Budi Harsakti
