EduASiaNews, Jakarta – The health examination for prospective new students under the 2026 National Selection Based on Achievement (SNBP) at Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jakarta (UPNVJ) on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the Medical Education and Research Center (MERCE) in Limo, Depok, was not only an administrative requirement but also highlighted an inspiring story from a visually impaired participant. One remarkable story comes from Shalma Arsyta Noorsyarif, a candidate for the International Relations Study Program at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) UPNVJ, who successfully passed the 2026 SNBP after a journey full of challenges and hope.
Shalma, affectionately known as Caca, admitted that she initially felt insecure when applying for SNBP. She did not consider herself among the top academic achievers in her school and was therefore pessimistic about her chances of passing. After completing her registration, she immediately began intensive preparation for the Computer-Based Written Exam (UTBK), which led to mental exhaustion.
“I felt extremely overthinking watching my friends’ progress. I even experienced burnout from constantly chasing tryout scores,” she revealed.
The pressure intensified during the Lebaran holiday, when questions about her college plans frequently came from those around her. On the day of the announcement, Caca chose to calm herself and pray before discovering her results.
“When I found out, I didn’t dare to open the result myself. But when my parents opened it and said I had passed, I still couldn’t believe it,” she recalled.
Throughout her academic journey, Caca received strong support from a positive social environment. Despite challenges in subjects like chemistry and mathematics, she remained committed to developing her interests and skills in her preferred field. This perseverance and consistency were key to her success in gaining admission through SNBP.
Caca also shared advice for students who were not successful in SNBP to remain optimistic and persistent. According to her, everyone has their own path to achieving educational goals.
“You must stay confident and believe in yourself. If we continue to work hard and pray, the best path will surely come,” she encouraged.
She further offered tips for future SNBP participants, such as actively participating in accredited competitions, developing personal interests and talents, and maintaining good relationships within the school environment.
As she enters university life at UPNVJ, Caca hopes to study in an inclusive and supportive environment. She also aims to contribute actively to campus life and achieve academic excellence.
“I hope to meet good friends and be in an environment that accepts me. I also want to contribute to the campus and achieve the best academic results, including graduating with cum laude honors,” she said.
Shalma’s story illustrates that university admission is not determined solely by academic achievement but also by perseverance, courage, and a supportive environment. UPNVJ remains committed to providing inclusive and equitable higher education, offering all students, including those with disabilities, the opportunity to thrive optimally.(www.upnvj.ac.id)
