The Department of Food and Agricultural Product Technology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (TPHP UGM) welcomed 120 new students from the Class of 2026 during a department orientation held on Wednesday, August 5, at the Kamarijani Soenjoto Auditorium, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, UGM. The session introduced students to the department’s academic system, learning facilities, and opportunities for personal and professional development, helping them begin planning their academic journey from the start of their studies.
The new students were welcomed by the Head of the Department, Prof. Dr. Ir. Tyas Utami, M.Sc., and the Department Secretary, Dr. Dwi Larasatie Nur Fibri, S.T.P., M.Sc., along with several faculty members. The event provided an opportunity for students to become acquainted with the academic community that will support them throughout their university education.
During the session, Prof. Tyas and Dr. Dwi presented an overview of the department, including its academic programs, vision, mission, and objectives. Students were also introduced to faculty members and laboratories, the academic advising system, study pathways, student mobility programs, and the elective and required courses available throughout the program.
The orientation was part of a series of activities welcoming the TPHP UGM Class of 2026. It was designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of their academic journey and the opportunities available to them during their studies. Throughout the session, students actively participated in the question-and-answer discussion, raising questions about coursework, academic planning, and campus life.
Prof. Tyas encouraged students to maintain a healthy balance between academic responsibilities and extracurricular activities, including student organizations and other non-academic programs.
“Students need to balance their studies with organizational activities and other experiences outside the classroom, as these opportunities can help them develop skills that may not be gained through academic learning alone,” Prof. Tyas said.
Echoing this message, Dr. Dwi advised students to establish clear goals from the beginning of their studies, particularly when selecting elective courses that may support their future career plans.
“Students should have a clear sense of direction from the start of their studies so that the elective courses they choose can align with the career paths they hope to pursue,” Dr. Dwi said.
The department orientation is expected to provide students with a strong foundation as they adapt to university life. By gaining an early understanding of the academic system, available facilities, and opportunities for development, the Class of 2026 is expected to approach their studies with greater direction, active engagement, and balance.
Author: Firstnandita Keisha
