IPB University Prepares Prospective Graduates to Face the World of Work

IPB University held a studium generale for prospective graduates of the Undergraduate Programme and Vocational School phase II of the 2024/2025 academic year (9/9). This activity explores the experiences of IPB University alumni who have been successful in their fields. The hope is that prospective graduates can be better prepared to face the challenges of the world of work and make the right career decisions.

The event presented two successful alumni, Agung Ekoloyo, Co-Founder of Ayam Mrothol, and drh Meiti Ifianti, CEO of PT Sehat Cerah Indonesia. Both shared their experiences and valuable advice on their career journeys.

Prof Iskandar Z Siregar, Vice Rector of IPB University for Global Connectivity, Collaboration, and Alumni Relations when opening the studium generale, said about the importance of readiness to face challenges in the job market. He mentioned that currently, various industries are facing issues such as massive lay-offs and geopolitical conditions that affect labour absorption. 

“However, IPB University graduates have been equipped with 21st century skills and a future mindset that will help them adapt and excel,” Prof Iskandar said.

On this occasion, Agung Ekoloyo, an alumnus of the Faculty of Agriculture shared his story about the three main types of careers after graduation. The three types of careers are becoming a professional worker, entrepreneur, or pursuing opportunities in other fields. 

“Each career choice has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is important to choose a path that suits your interests and skills, and enjoy the process,” Agung said.

Agung said that in 2018, he decided to enter the chicken business. It started with his friend’s broiler business. After successfully innovating, he now has 165 branches.

Agung explained that the key to entrepreneurship is innovation, product improvement, and market penetration. “We also have to build confidence in entrepreneurship, make changes even if it is small so that it will develop better,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, drh Meiti Ifianti, an alumnus of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, shared her experience as CEO of a multinational company in the import and distribution of veterinary drugs. She emphasised the importance of following your passion and building good self-branding. “During my 20-year career, I experienced failures and mistakes, but I learnt and continued to improve myself,” he said. 

She said that in today’s competitive world of work, graduates need to have digital skills, problem-solving, as well as adaptability and foreign language skills. According to Meiti, preparing yourself with technical and soft skills as well as expanding your network are important steps before entering the workforce. 

“Every step, whether up or down, should be utilised as an opportunity to learn and grow,” she added. (MW/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)