Reni Novia Alfiyanti was born into a simple rural family, the youngest of three siblings. Her father, Haryanto, works as a farmer, while her mother, Nur Khaniyati, is a loving homemaker. From her parents, Reni learned the meaning of hard work, patience and sincerity. A modest life did not discourage her – on the contrary, it became the spark for her to keep striving. To her, pursuing higher education is an honour not only for herself but also the greatest gift to her family.

Her journey to UNY was not easy. After graduating high school in 2020, she experienced the bitterness of failing university entrance. She spent a whole year in a gap year filled with anxiety. But prayers and support from her family became her source of energy to rise again. In 2021, the alumna of SMAN 1 Seyegan was finally accepted in the Educational Management Study Program at UNY. Fortunately, during her study she received the “Kartu Indonesia Pintar Kuliah (KIPK)” scholarship. That was the beginning of her new step in realising her dream.

From the start of her study, the resident of Margorejo, Tempel, Sleman set a principle to always be disciplined. She believed that grades are not everything, but deep understanding of the knowledge is. With a consistent study pattern, her performance remained strong semester after semester. Her hard work bore sweet results: at the UNY Graduation in August 2025, Reni was lauded as the undergraduate student with the highest Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA), namely 3.97. This achievement is not only personal pride but also concrete proof of her family’s prayers and sacrifices.

However, this achievement did not come without challenges. While writing her thesis, Reni faced serious health problems. She was shaken and nearly gave up. But her parents’ prayers, the support of her older siblings, and the guidance of her supervisor became her renewed strength. With unwavering resolve, she rose again until finally she was able to complete her studies on time with the best results.

Not only focused on academics, Reni also engaged in various activities. She joined the Student Executive Board (BEM) in the Faculty of Education, participated in the “Campus Teaching” programme, and interned at the Regional Training and Education Agency of Yogyakarta. From these experiences she learned time management, leadership, communication, and workplace dynamics. Even in her home village she took time to help children study. For Reni, sharing knowledge is a simple yet greatly meaningful form of social concern. Looking ahead, the young woman born in Sleman on 11 November 2001 aspires to work in a ministry or educational institution, and to continue her studies to a higher level. To her, true success is not just about grades, but about the courage to rise after failure, patience in going through the process, and consistency in stepping even when the road feels heavy. “Never be afraid of failure,” she says. “Because failure is the best teacher. As long as we are willing to work hard, pray, and be consistent, the best result will come in time.”

Reni’s story is living proof that simplicity is no barrier. From a village girl who almost lost hope, she transformed into a graduate with top academic achievement. Her struggle is an inspiration to many: that with determination, prayer, and hard work, no dream is too high to reach.