Laura Aurelia, Disabled Swimmer with International Achievements Earns Bachelor of Psychology Degree from UGM

Yogyakarta, Todaysgist.com – Laura Aurelia Dinda Sekar Devanti (24), a disabled athlete from Surakarta, has successfully completed her undergraduate studies at the Faculty of Psychology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM). The graduation ceremony held on Wednesday (28/8/2024) at Grha Sabha Pramana UGM was a valuable moment in her life journey as a student and an accomplished athlete.

A feeling of relief and happiness radiated from Laura’s face after going through a challenging academic journey.

“I’m also happy because the results of seven years of hard work have finally come to fruition,” he told reporters on Friday (30/8/2024).

In addition to her academic success, Laura has also recorded brilliant achievements in the international arena. In 2018, she won two gold medals at the World Para Swimming Championship in Berlin. Previously, she also managed to win two gold medals at the 2017 ASEAN Para Games in Malaysia and a medal at the 2021 Papua Peparnas.

Then in 2024, Laura brought home three gold medals at the DKI Jakarta Province Sports Championship for the Physically Disabled and Blind.

Laura revealed that her interest in swimming began when she was in 4th grade, with a particular interest in the competitive side of the sport.

“Initially I started swimming because of asthma, but over time I started to like the competition,” he explained.

Another memorable moment in her career was when she won a plastic medal in her first competition. This experience became the biggest motivation that drove her to continue competing.

Full support from both parents is one of the keys to Laura’s success in balancing her studies and career as an athlete. Therefore, with perseverance and good time management, she managed to complete academic tasks without sacrificing her swimming training.

“I am the type who likes to schedule. So, if there is an assignment, I prefer to work on campus first. After that right swimming practice, then in the evening I just continue with what I need to do,” he explained.

However, Laura’s journey was not always smooth. She had to face great challenges in balancing academic demands and intense swimming training, which made her have to take half a semester off for national training.

Although she has just earned her bachelor’s degree, Laura is already preparing herself for the next challenge, namely Peparnas in Solo in October. She also has plans to continue her career in swimming and pursue a profession in psychology.

“Swimming will definitely continue, because of that passion-me. However, I also want to pursue a career as a psychologist,” he said.

Laura emphasizes the importance of investing in areas you are truly interested in and not being afraid to try new things.