“It is impossible for someone to become great and successful in both this world and the Hereafter without also facing great trials from Allah Ta’ala.”
Behind every great achievement, there is always a story of struggle that few people ever see. There are long nights filled with tears, exhaustion that tightens the chest, and silent prayers heard only by the heavens.
That is the story of a young Indonesian named Bryant Andhika Prayoga.
Learning to Survive Through Hardship
For many people, success is associated with applause, magnificent stages, dazzling lights, and prestigious awards. But for Bryant, the greatest test in life came when he was completely alone.
When no one could hear him cry.
When his body and mind were exhausted.
When he had to keep smiling despite insults, disappointment, and unfair treatment.
In those most fragile moments, Bryant felt that Allah was embracing him most tightly.
His spiritual journey and academic struggle walked side by side. He believes that knowledge is not merely about degrees or achievements, but about bringing people closer to God and becoming beneficial to others.
Becoming a National Outstanding Student
In May 2025, Bryant successfully completed his undergraduate thesis defense at the Biochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Diponegoro University, with remarkable results.
Some of his academic achievements include:
- Thesis score: 86.32 (A)
- GPA: 3.90
- Total credits completed: 151 credits
- First Place Outstanding Student of Diponegoro University 2024
- Top 4 Outstanding Students in Central Java
- 3rd Winner of Indonesia National Outstanding Student Competition 2024
The competition was organized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia together with the National Achievement Center and BPTI.
However, Bryant’s journey did not stop there.
Exploring the World Through Knowledge and Scholarships
Since his undergraduate years, Bryant actively developed himself as a young researcher.
He studied for one semester at Universiti Malaysia Sabah and became an awardee of the Future Research Talent program at the Research School of Chemistry, The Australian National University, with a full scholarship.
Before graduating, Bryant had already traveled to nearly 13 countries across 3 continents for research activities, competitions, and academic development.
The total sponsorships and scholarships he earned exceeded 27,000 USD, equivalent to more than IDR 444 million.
In addition, he also:
- Owned intellectual property rights and trademarks
- Published Scopus-indexed scientific articles
- Became a speaker at various national and international forums
- Participated actively in global research collaborations
None of these achievements were built overnight, but through years of consistency and perseverance.
The Dilemma of the Future: Master’s, PhD, or Work?
After graduating from Diponegoro University, Bryant faced a major question:
Should he continue to a Master’s degree? Pursue a PhD directly? Or work first?
All three options shared one similarity: he wanted to pursue them abroad.
Bryant believes that science and Islamic da’wah can go hand in hand. For him, going abroad is not merely about career opportunities or better facilities, but also about bringing Islamic values to the world.
He wanted to become a scientist who continued to uphold the call to prayer, da’wah, and Islamic values in countries where Muslims are minorities.
Offers from World-Class Universities
Through hard work and long prayers, Bryant received various academic and research offers from some of the world’s most prestigious universities.
Among them were:
- University of New South Wales
- University of Sydney
- University of Glasgow
- Wageningen University & Research
- Hokkaido University
He also received opportunities for PhD supervisor selection at the University of Oxford, as well as study opportunities at Imperial College London and the University of Vienna.
Even so, Bryant felt that he still wanted to explore many branches of knowledge before focusing deeply on one specialized field in doctoral studies.
Therefore, he decided to work first.
Becoming a Scientist in Japan
Currently, Bryant works at the Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University, as an Academic Researcher.
His research focuses on material synthesis for latent heat thermal energy storage.
His laboratory collaborates with major companies in Japan in the development of material and energy technologies.
For Bryant, working as a researcher abroad is not the end of the journey, but the beginning of a greater responsibility.
He wants to prove that Indonesian youth can compete globally without losing their identity, morals, and spiritual values.
The Secret Behind a Great Journey
Bryant emphasizes that success never comes instantly.
Since the beginning of college, he had prepared:
- English language proficiency
- International academic documents
- Organizational experiences
- Scientific publications
- Competitions and research projects
- IELTS preparation
According to him, there are many free learning resources available, including online platforms such as YouTube.
He also reminds people that studying or working abroad is not merely about lifestyle, tourism, or luxury.
What matters most is one’s quality, integrity, and ability to create real impact for society.
Bringing Da’wah and Knowledge to the World
Amidst his academic achievements and international career, Bryant still holds firmly to one main mission:
to spread Islamic da’wah and contribute independently to his homeland.
He believes that science must walk together with spiritual values.
That a scientist’s duty is not only to create technology, but also to bring benefit, hope, and light to humanity.
Bryant Andhika Prayoga’s journey proves that limitations are never barriers to reaching the world.
As long as someone is willing to endure, continue learning, and maintain their relationship with God, greater paths will always be opened.
Sincerely,
Bryant Andhika Prayoga
IUP Chemistry 2021
Hokkaido, Japan