Balikpapan — Every student walks a different path. Some sprint from the start, while others move slowly as they search for direction. But Iqbal’s story graduating from Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) with honors is a portrait of a quiet journey filled with doubt, hard work, and the kind of family support that often goes unseen. “Happy, but it feels like closing a very important chapter.” That was the first sentence Iqbal shared when asked how he felt upon officially becoming a graduate of ITK. There was a wide smile on his face, yet also a trace of emotion that he could not hide. For him, graduation is not merely a celebration it is the end of a long process accompanied by laughter, tears, and life lessons that shaped him deeply.

A Mother as Light, A Father as Steadfast Steps

When asked who encouraged him the most throughout his studies, Iqbal immediately mentioned his parents. “Especially my mother, who never stopped reminding me to study diligently and to keep praying,” he said. But there was another story that touched many who heard it: for four years, Iqbal was dropped off and picked up almost every day by his family because he still couldn’t ride a motorcycle. “I’m actually embarrassed about it. But it reminded me that I never really fought this journey alone.” A small sacrifice for the family, yet monumental for a young man striving toward graduation.

An Unforgettable Journey: Competing at ITB

Among all his experiences, one moment remains unforgettable his first time flying out of Kalimantan to compete at Institut Teknologi Bandung. It didn’t just broaden his perspective; it made him realize how vast the academic world truly is. “Meeting students who were much smarter even geniuses taught me to stay humble and never feel too satisfied.”

The Hardest Point: Fear of Not Being Good Enough During the Final Project

Like many students, the Final Project became the toughest phase for Iqbal. Not because of the material, but because of the inferiority he felt whenever he compared himself with others. “I was overthinking. Sometimes I felt my topic wasn’t good enough. But in the end, what matters is that we keep moving.” Yet, it was from this difficult period that Iqbal slowly built resilience step by step.

Competitions and Teaching Assistance: Spaces That Shaped His Character

Iqbal mentioned two activities that shaped him the most: participating in competitions and becoming a teaching assistant. Competitions taught him to compete fairly. Being an assistant taught him humility and responsibility. “Both reminded me not to be easily satisfied, but also not to compare myself too much with others.”

Iqbal’s Learning Tips: Learning Is a Process, Not a Sprint

When asked for study tips, Iqbal offered a simple yet meaningful message: “Take your time to think.” According to him, even the smallest assignments should be completed with an understanding of the process behind them not rushed, not done just to finish. "Learning can’t be done overnight. It has to be nurtured in class, through small tasks, and in quiet moments between.”

A Story Worth Remembering

Iqbal’s journey is a reflection for other ITK students: that humility, consistency, and appreciation for the process are far more important than the final result. His cum laude achievement is not only the product of intelligence it is the fruit of a supportive family, the courage to try, and the strength to rise above fear. His story is not just about graduation it is about growth. About how someone learns to trust themselves, step by step. May Iqbal’s story inspire ITK students to keep moving forward, even slowly, because every small step is part of the journey toward the future.