With a GPA of 3,99, the Daughter of a Horticultural Farmer from Pematang Siantar Becomes IPB University’s Top Graduate
Family background is no barrier to academic achievement. With a passion for learning, hard work, and consistency, Evelyn Egidia Sitopu has proven that dreams can come true even for those from farming families.
The daughter of a horticultural farmer from Pematang Siantar, North Sumatra, she was named the Top Graduate of the Faculty of Economics and Management (FEM) at IPB University with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3,99. Evelyn graduated on July 15, 2026, at the Graha Widya Wisuda on the IPB Dramaga Campus.
The Agribusiness Program graduate admitted that she came to IPB University with one great hope: to receive the best education while paving the way to realize her aspirations.
“After graduating from SMA Negeri 1 Raya in Pematang Siantar, I took the SBMPTN (now SNBT) entrance exam. I’m grateful to have been one of the accepted students and to have received the KIP Kuliah scholarship, which helped ease the financial burden of tuition for my parents, who are farmers,” she said.
For Evelyn, her journey through her studies at IPB University was not just about pursuing academic excellence, but also a process of character building and personal growth.
“At IPB University, I didn’t just gain knowledge in the classroom, but I also grew through organizations, competitions, research, and various opportunities for self development. The biggest challenge was maintaining a balance between academics and other activities, which taught me about discipline, time management, and the importance of consistency,” she said.
Her interest in the world of agriculture was the main reason she chose the Agribusiness Program. According to her, agribusiness provides a comprehensive understanding of the agricultural sector, ranging from the provision of production inputs, cultivation processes, processing, and marketing, all the way to the creation of added value.
“With IPB’s reputation as a leading institution in the field of agriculture, I am confident that I can develop the knowledge, skills, and innovations needed to make a tangible contribution to the advancement of Indonesia’s agribusiness sector,” she said.
During her time as a student, Evelyn actively developed herself through various organizations, including the Forum for Scientific Students (Forces), the IPB Finance Club (IFC), and the PKU 59 Dormitory Discipline Group (GDA). These activities enriched her experience in leadership, teamwork, and organizational skills.
Evelyn believes that IPB University is not merely a place to gain knowledge, but a space to grow into a person of integrity, adaptability, and concern for the surrounding environment.
“IPB isn’t just where I gain knowledge, but also where I grow as an individual. Studying at this university has taught me that knowledge must provide tangible benefits to society, while also shaping a character marked by integrity, adaptability, and care for the surrounding environment,” she concluded. (dh) (IAAS/FHD)
