Amid the bustle of the 2025 UTBK (Computer-Based Written Exam) in Balikpapan, a story of quiet resilience stood out. Novely Adelia Hosea, a student of SMAN 5 Balikpapan, showed extraordinary determination as she took her exam at the ITK Balikpapan test center — despite still recovering from a serious injury. 

Her story began in January 2025, when Novely was involved in an accident on her way home from school. It was raining when she was brushed by a motorcycle near the PLN alleyway in MT Haryono, close to a gas station. She fell and suffered an injury severe enough to require surgery on January. 

Since then, Novely has been undergoing an extended period of physical therapy. Although she is still healing and cannot fully bend her knee — especially when climbing stairs — she refused to let her condition hinder her goals. She showed up for her UTBK exam with calm confidence. 

When asked whether she faced any obstacles during the exam, Novely replied: 

“There weren’t any issues at all. I just can’t bend my leg to go up stairs.”

Despite her physical challenges, Novely had been preparing academically by taking tutoring lessons since the school exams, balancing her time between study and recovery.
 
Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance. Even in the face of physical pain, Novely pressed on in pursuit of her dreams. Her story is not only about academic ambition — it is about courage, discipline, and the will to overcome adversity.
 
May her story inspire others to rise above their own struggles and keep striving, no matter what stands in their way.