UNDIP, Semarang (13/2) — Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) once again graduated outstanding students at the 181st Graduation Ceremony held last week. One of the high-achieving graduates was Laila Latifah, an Oceanography Study Program graduate from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPIK), known for her active involvement and achievements throughout her studies. Laila completed her studies with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.75, earning cum laude honors, and achieved various academic and non-academic accomplishments at both national and international levels.
Laila’s interest in oceanography began with her background from Pangandaran, West Java, a coastal region with significant marine resource potential. This background encouraged her to study and understand the ocean scientifically and in depth through her education at FPIK UNDIP. “I come from Pangandaran Regency, a coastal area with tremendous marine potential. This background motivated me to pursue studies in the Oceanography program at FPIK UNDIP because I wanted to understand the ocean scientifically and comprehensively,” she said.
During her academic journey, Laila faced various challenges, ranging from numerous laboratory practicums and field activities to intensive report writing. However, she considered these experiences valuable in shaping her character. “At first, it felt difficult, but that was where the excitement lay. The process trained me to become more disciplined, meticulous, and capable of managing time effectively, which ultimately enabled me to complete my studies successfully,” Laila explained.
In addition to focusing on her studies, Laila actively participated in various academic and organizational activities. She was involved in writing and publishing scientific articles, participating in scientific paper competitions, and presenting at international scientific forums. Her achievements include first place and Best Paper at the Techomact 2024 National Scientific Writing Competition, finalist at the MARSCO and UNISLA National Scientific Writing Competitions, presenter at the ICTCRED 2024 international scientific forum, first author of a scientific article in the Indonesian Journal of Marine Sciences (IJMS), and recipient of the Outstanding Student Award (Mawapres) of FPIK UNDIP in 2023.
In the non-academic field, Laila also achieved several accomplishments, including participation in the IPB Independent Entrepreneurship Program (Program Wirausaha Merdeka) with an environmentally friendly product innovation in the form of an edible cup called “RISANG,” serving as a Millennial Campus Ambassador in 2023, and becoming a member of the Student Senate of the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences at Universitas Diponegoro for the 2022–2023 period.
After officially graduating, Laila hopes to continue developing her career in marine research and management while making meaningful contributions to society, particularly in coastal areas. “I also want to remain active in academia and continue innovating so that the knowledge I have gained can benefit the wider community,” she stated.
Furthermore, she encouraged the younger generation to be brave in trying new things and not to fear challenges. “There is nothing wrong with trying new things. Doubts will surely arise, but by having the courage to try, we gain valuable new experiences. Young people need to be brave to take steps forward, keep learning, and not be afraid of failure,” she advised. (Public Communication/UNDIP/Dhany)