Maria’s joyful smile could not be hidden after being declared a graduate at the Judicium Ceremony of the Bachelor in Dental Hygiene Program, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), on 17 July 2025, together with 32 of her peers. For Maria, this moment was not only about her journey from Mappi Regency, South Papua, to studying at FKG UGM and finally graduating. More than that, her academic journey at UGM has been a story as winding as the landscapes of the Land of Cenderawasih.
Back in high school, Maria Rosalina Gebze and her friends received information about the opportunity to continue their studies on the island of Java. At that time, her sights were set on UGM. Encouraged by this information, she took the affirmation test and was accepted into UGM’s Faculty of Dentistry through this pathway. Maria is originally from Bade Village, Edera District, Mappi Regency, South Papua. To begin her studies at UGM, she traveled from Mappi by speedboat along the river, then continued with a 7-hour overland journey to Merauke Airport. Before starting her education on Java, she had to attend a week-long national defense and orientation program in Makassar. Initially, Maria did not even know what the dental hygiene program was; she only learned about it during registration. Still, she courageously chose the program, believing in her potential and convinced that UGM is the best university in Indonesia.
Maria shared that one of her seniors had also studied at UGM’s Faculty of Biology. With a bright laugh, she recalled her experiences living in Yogyakarta, from navigating cross-culturalencounters to adjusting to customs that were quite different from her own. Over time, she came to understand and embrace Yogyakarta’s culture. For Maria, adapting to a new environment required a process, but the journey turned out to be enjoyable, with friends who were welcoming and open. Not only her peers but also her lecturers showed the same warmth and support. Maria is the eldest of five siblings. After graduation, she plans to return to her homeland, specifically to Mappi Regency, South Papua Province. She expressed her determination to contribute to Papua, particularly in the field of dental hygiene.
The values Maria holds dearly during her time away in Yogyakarta are the messages from her parents: to complete her studies with perseverance and wholehearted commitment. She is deeply grateful for the encouragement and support she received from her lecturers, said the young woman who enjoys hiking and fishing.
Author: Andri Wicaksono | Editor: Shinta
Photo: Fajar Budi H
