August 2020 was an extra semester for me and there were many things to do such as completing my research in the laboratory, class seminars, submit journals, and thesis examination. In the pandemic, the government made policy “New normal” after Eid Mubarak, so I was able to continue my research in the laboratory. About my research in the laboratory, I had a big deal with it. I was always scared, didn’t enjoy my activities in the laboratory, and wanted to go back boarding house soon. It was a feeling that I didn’t understand and took a long time to deal with this problem. For the first time, I was longing my activities in the laboratory so much. I realized this when I wanted to go laboratory but could not because one of the students in the laboratory was infected by Covid-19, so the laboratory was temporarily closed. Unconsciously, I started to like my activities in the laboratory.
An unforgettable moment in this semester, I had to complete my draft journal and thesis, afterward preparing thesis examination only in three weeks or I had to pay tuition fee again for next semester. The first time I knew that I only had three weeks, my feeling was so scared and frustrated, but at the same time, I was happy because I had the opportunity to graduate this semester. Therefore, every second was precious, consequently, I had to skip all activities there was no correlation with my thesis including took a break from my studying English routine. Besides that, no time to cook or do laundry again, and I just focused on the laptop until my eyes stung. Sleeping, listening to the khutbah, and of course, support from my lecturer, family, friends made me strong to face this pressure.
This was like a miracle that finally I could graduate from
Phytopathology UGM after five semesters.
After all that has been through, I have two points to share. First, we
can train or perhaps force ourselves to do good things until eventually, we can
enjoy that activity. It is like my thesis journey. Second, we can force
ourselves to avoid something that is not good for us until we don't want to do
it again without being forced. It is like my journey to free from being hooked
on watching drama. Allah, thank you for
all the things that You have given to me.
