SITI Handasah (18) Tabalong-born girl, South Kalimantan never gave up to get knowledge and  the dreams come true. Studying diligently and always reaching the top three rank  became her  main principles in reaching a full scholarship for Mining Engineering  department at UPN 'Veteran' Yogyakarta.

This sweet girl got a scholarship from mining company in Kalimantan after getting through selection many times.

"I knew this scholarship because I have a sibling who got it fo studying  in IPB.  It has a cooperation with UPN this year," said the girl who often called Handa.

In addition to a free tuition, Handa along with 3 other friends also got living cost, plane tickets, and accommodation.

"My parents prayed every night for me to be succeed. If  I did not get this scholarship, I did’t know where to go for studying”, she said when she was met at UPN Auditorium.

Life in Yogyakarta which is slightly different from the one in Kalimantan had made a girl graduate of SMAN 1 Muara Uya  shocked.

"In my hometown my house is far apart. The front of the house is a rubber forest and I should ride a bicycle or walk  for going," explained the daughter of rubber farmers.

Although she was hesitant when she chose the mining department because of the minimal number of women and heavy impression, Handa is now firm and determined to finish her study well because she must pass the scholarship requirements  of a 5 years maximum study with a minimum GPA of 2.75.

"I must learn diligently for the sake of parents. When I have a phone call with my mother, we cry.   My parents always remind me of being carefully in selecting friends", said the girl who wants to be a lecturer. (MG 19)