The Academic and Character Development Program for New Students (PAKARMARU) is an annual activity held to welcome new students. Unlike previous years, the 2020 PAKARMARU of the Mathematics Department was conducted online via Zoom Cloud Meeting on Sunday, September 27, 2020.
In her opening remarks, Nurmaulidar, M.Sc, Head of the Mathematics Department, FMIPA Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), introduced the Mathematics Department to the new students and presented various student achievements at both the national and international levels.
Several lecturers also delivered motivational messages and encouragement to the new students. Among them was Dr. Rini Oktavia, M.Si., M.A., Secretary of the Mathematics Department, who emphasized the importance of maintaining enthusiasm for learning even in an online setting. She also encouraged students to make the best use of the USK E-Learning platform to support their studies.
In addition, several lecturers presented materials and explanations related to the fields of study available in the Mathematics Department, FMIPA Universitas Syiah Kuala. The topics included Mathematics and Its Relation to Real-World Phenomena through the Field of Dynamics and Control delivered by Dr. Said Munzir, M.Eng.Sc., Pure Mathematics by Saiful Amri, M.Si., Optimization by Dr. Siti Rusdiana, M.Eng., and Career Prospects for Mathematics Graduates by Dr. Intan Syahrini, M.Si. It is expected that these presentations help new students gain a better understanding and appreciation of the various areas of mathematics.
The event also featured alumni sharing sessions, including Jailani, S.Mat., who shared his insights and tips for success during his studies at FMIPA USK. He emphasized the importance of having clear academic goals, accompanied by strong effort and prayer. According to him, success does not merely come from doing what we like, but from having determination and consistency throughout the learning process.
The session continued with a video presentation from Nurul Wahyuni, an alumna currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Mathematics in the United States. She advised students to study diligently and improve their English proficiency as a key to engaging with the global academic community.
Another alumna, Ervina Yunita, shared her perspective that learning mathematics is not only about achieving high grades, but also about enjoying and deeply understanding the subject itself.
The PAKARMARU 2020 event concluded with a closing prayer and a group photo session involving all participants, lecturers, and organizers.