Balikpapan – Being active in various organizations, participating in the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program, engaging in mine wastewater treatment research, and completing internships at two companies did not prevent Joyce Felecya Sitinjak from maintaining her academic performance. The Environmental Engineering student from the Faculty of Sustainable Development (FPB), Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK), completed her studies in eight semesters with a GPA of 3.84, graduated with honors, and was recognized as the best graduate.

For Joyce, this achievement was the result of a long process of learning how to manage her time and set priorities. Her university experience extended far beyond the classroom, encompassing organizational activities, research, community engagement, competitions, and professional experiences.

Throughout her time as a student, Joyce actively participated in several organizations. She served as a secretariat staff member of KM ITK, became Secretary of the Environmental Engineering Student Association, was active in Generasi Baru Indonesia (GenBI) Bank Indonesia, and also took on the role of Vice R&D at SRE.

Handling multiple responsibilities taught Joyce to manage her time from an early stage. Lectures, assignments, organizational duties, and other activities often came with overlapping deadlines. These situations trained her to establish priorities based on the urgency of each task.

Bringing Environmental Engineering Knowledge into the Field

One of Joyce’s most memorable experiences was participating in the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program through an initiative supported by an Australian grant.

Through the program, she was involved in the treatment of mining wastewater for potential use as irrigation water. Conducted in the Samboja area, the program gave her an opportunity to observe firsthand how environmental problems can be addressed through technical approaches.

Joyce participated in activities ranging from the development of supporting infrastructure to water quality testing. The experience broadened her understanding of Environmental Engineering, as concepts previously learned in the classroom could be directly observed in real-world applications.

The experience also came with its own challenges. The considerable travel distance to the project location had to be managed alongside academic responsibilities and other activities. Once again, the situation strengthened her ability to manage time and complete responsibilities according to their level of priority.

Learning through Organizations, Competitions, and Industry

In addition to organizational activities and the MBKM program, Joyce frequently participated in various competitions, including essay competitions. For her, activities outside the classroom became opportunities to strengthen her writing, critical thinking, teamwork, and ability to communicate ideas.

Her experience was further enriched through internships at two companies. These internships provided Joyce with opportunities to understand professional working environments and directly observe how waste management is implemented in industrial operations.

These practical experiences have become valuable preparation for Joyce as she moves beyond university. After graduation, she aims to enter the workforce directly and is currently exploring opportunities that align with Environmental Engineering and the experiences she gained during her studies.

A Best Graduate Whose Achievement Goes Beyond Academic Scores

For Joyce, being named the best graduate is not merely about achieving a high GPA. Her journey demonstrates that university life can also be an opportunity to expand networks, take on different roles, understand real-world challenges, and prepare for professional life.

Her ability to maintain strong academic performance while participating in numerous activities highlights the importance of time management and the courage to seize opportunities. From student organizations and GenBI to research, MBKM, competitions, and internships, each experience provided a different kind of learning.

To fellow ITK students who are still pursuing their studies, Joyce encourages them not to be afraid of trying the opportunities available during university life.

“Do not be afraid to try. While you are still a student, there are many opportunities and experiences that you can take advantage of as a privilege to learn and grow.”

Joyce’s journey, from classrooms to mine wastewater treatment activities in Samboja, illustrates how academic excellence can grow alongside organizational and professional experiences. Graduating as the best graduate with a GPA of 3.84 and with honors, Joyce concludes her academic journey at ITK carrying more than just a degree—she also brings a wealth of experiences that will serve as valuable preparation for the professional world.