UTBK Moments at IPB University: Two Amazing Mothers Meet, Supporting Each Other for Their Children’s Future
The administration of the Computer-Based Written Exam-National Selection Based on Tests (UTBK-SNBT) at IPB University is not merely a venue for participants to strive for their future. Behind the scenes, there are heartwarming stories of parents who faithfully accompany their children.
That morning, Saturday (4/25), the campus was still dark when Robiah arrived with her husband. She had left Bekasi at 2:00 a.m. to ensure her daughter, Rizki Gina Lestari from SMK Negeri 2 Bekasi, wouldn’t be late for the exam. “Since we didn’t know the location, we left early, the main thing was that our child wouldn’t be late,” she said.
Robiah’s struggle didn’t end there. The day before the exam, her daughter had been hospitalized due to typhoid fever. Worry briefly weighed heavily on the mother’s heart. However, with unwavering determination, prayers, and unwavering spirit, Gina was ultimately able to take the exam.
Robiah hopes that her daughter’s decision to pursue the Industrial Management program at IPB’s Vocational School will pave the way to a brighter future. “I want my daughter to be more successful than her parents,” she said hopefully.
Meanwhile, Rina also left Parung, Bogor, at 3:30 a.m. to accompany her son, Gio Marcelo, a student at State High School 2 Mejayan in Madiun.
Although she had never surveyed the location, Rina chose to arrive early to ensure her son could take the exam calmly. Gio himself aspires to continue his studies at a state university in Bandung, majoring in Computer Science.
As a parent, Rina has her own way of supporting her son. She provides private tutoring at home to help him understand his lessons, especially mathematics. Despite her limited resources, she even cut back on her work to focus on supporting her son’s preparation.
“I don’t want to force him. Children have their own desires. What’s important is that he has the tools for life and can be independent,” she explained.
Rina also instills the value of resilience in her son. For her, success isn’t the only goal. “Even if he doesn’t succeed yet, don’t be sad and don’t lose hope. I don’t demand that he be the best, but that he be the best version of himself,” she advised.
Interestingly, Robiah and Rina didn’t know each other before. However, while waiting for their children to take the exam, the two shared stories. About struggles, hopes, and a mother’s love.
That simple conversation became a source of strength between them. Amid shared anxiety, genuine empathy and support emerged.
The UTBK moment at IPB University became more than just an exam. It became a gathering space for parents to strengthen one another, share stories, and reaffirm their roles as figures who always stand behind their children’s struggles. (Lp) (IAAS/PRO)
