Academic scores are often used as a benchmark for intelligence. However, intelligence alone is not enough. Character, personality, and strong motivation are equally important foundations in shaping professionals with integrity.
To recruit prospective students who excel both academically and personally, the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) held interview sessions as part of the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) admission process for the 2025/2026 academic year.
This activity was conducted offline on Saturday, 25 May 2025, and was attended by 42 participants, including five international applicants from China and Malaysia. The presence of international candidates reflects the high global appeal of the IUP program at FKG UGM, while also demonstrating the faculty’s commitment to providing internationally recognized dental education.
Prof. drg. Rosa Amalia, M.Kes., Ph.D., Vice Dean for Academic Affairs at FKG UGM, emphasized the significance of the interview in understanding applicants beyond their academic achievements. “The interview allows us to assess personal qualities, motivation, interests, and how well the applicants align with their chosen study program,” Rosa explained.
During the session, participants faced a series of questions designed to evaluate character and mindset, such as how they deal with failure and their perspective on the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in academia. All questions aimed to explore motivation, maturity of thought, and other personal values.
The interview stage complemented previous selection steps, including the Academic English Proficiency Test (AcEPT), Gadjah Mada Scholastic Test (GMST), and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). This multi-layered selection strategy ensures that accepted students are not only academically prepared but also mentally resilient, ethical, and possess strong integrity.
One applicant from Malaysia, Shavena, shared her impression of the selection process: “UGM is a university with an outstanding academic reputation that is widely recognized globally,” she said.
Through this comprehensive selection process, FKG UGM reaffirms its commitment to producing graduates who are not only excellent on paper but also capable of becoming resilient and globally competitive dental professionals.
Author: Fajar Budi Harsakti
