Hendy Gilang Syahputra (left) with ITS Rector Ir Bambang Pramujati ST MScEng PhD when officially confirmed as a Masters graduate at the 130th ITS Graduation

ITS Campus, ITS News — Another proud achievement has been made by a graduate of Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS). Hendy Gilang Syahputra, a master’s graduate from the Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, successfully earned three degrees at just 21 years old through the Fast Track and Double Degree programs.

Hendy shared that his ambition began with a desire to achieve something different from students pursuing the regular education pathway. Through the Fast Track and Double Degree scholarship programs, Hendy obtained one bachelor’s and two master’s degrees from ITS and the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST), Taiwan. “This should give a distinct value when someone evaluates us,” added the young man born on October 3, 2002.

To reach this point, Hendy explained that he had to pass a series of selections, including administrative selection, psychological tests, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), and a written exam. He also set a goal to complete his undergraduate program by the 7th semester. “I finally graduated from the undergraduate program during ITS’s 127th graduation ceremony and became the youngest graduate on the second day,” said the 2019 cohort student.

Hendy Gilang Syahputra during the graduation ceremony for a Master of Science degree at the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST), some time ago

Not satisfied with just the Fast Track scholarship, Hendy applied for the Taiwan Tech International Dual Degree Program Scholarship right after completing his undergraduate program at ITS. The collaboration program between ITS and NTUST ultimately led him to earn a Master of Science (MSc) and Master of Engineering (MT) degrees in the same year, fully funded by a scholarship. “I earned all three degrees within a five-year study period,” Hendy explained.

Interestingly, Hendy chose two different fields for his final project and thesis. For his undergraduate final project, Hendy focused on the field of metals, specifically aluminum foam. He created a prototype of aluminum foam that could be used as a crash box in vehicles. “The purpose is for safety and protection of the car’s structure,” said the son of Sumardi and Heni.

Hendy Gilang Syahputra during a visit to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing

For his master’s studies, Hendy shifted his focus to semiconductor research. He faced several challenges as this field was significantly different from his undergraduate studies. Through perseverance, Hendy eventually became a co-author of a book on semiconductors, co-written with his professor at NTUST. His thesis topic was closely related, focusing on photodetectors made from perovskite materials.

The graduate from Tangerang credited ITS for playing a crucial role in his achievements. Being able to pursue master’s degrees at two universities in different countries for free was thanks to ITS’s capacity to provide international opportunities for its students. Hendy also expressed gratitude for the support of his lecturers and academic staff who facilitated all the procedures. “I feel indebted to ITS for educating me,” he said gratefully.

Hendy Gilang Syahputra (second from left) with members of the Nano Optoelectronics Laboratory consisting of international students from Indonesia, India, Vietnam, and Taiwan

Reporter: Putu Calista Arthanti Dewi