Finally I Dared to Start My Doctoral Program

On 18 February 2026, two important events awaited me: my first fasting and my first meeting. So, on this date, I came to my new college in a fasting condition. I was extremely excited to attend the Introduction to College Life for New Students event. After getting sahur, I didn't sleep. I do all housework until 06.30 a.m. After that, I prepared myself for coming to that university's event. 

I went there by electric motor. Intentionally, this motor will be used on every fifth Friday when my college implements zero emissions. But, I just want to. It's more relaxed and faster. The important thing is making sure you have a full battery.

I arrived promptly at 07.30. Enthusiasm seems to be in every person whom I meet. It seems we all can't wait to start activity here.

Actually, the time is too early. I was alone. Nobody whom I knew before. So, I just search for an space and then sit.

Although I am lonely, I enjoy this moment. Several times passed, and a master of ceremonies asked us who sat on the last two lines to move forward to the front seat. So, I move. Surprisingly, I sat next to a personal trainer in my Zumba place, Coach Dhia. 

Yeay! Finally, I got a chit-chat friend. I think it can't be boring. With friends, we can share anything and we will not feel alone. Let's process together.

The New Routine: Attending the Public Exam

These two weeks, every Tuesday, I go to campus. Not studying, but attending a sacral, which is eagerly awaited by every doctoral student. There is a happy feeling because this is one of my reasons to go to my new college. Actually, my doctoral activity will be started in February 2026, insyaAllah. But, with the invitation from my friends, Ms. Dita and Mr. Frank, I have felt the new academic atmosphere, which is the same feeling in the same place as when I got my magister study.

Ms. Dita's Photo Session

Mr. Frank's Presentation

There are several reasons for following the public exam. Firstly, the individual feels motivated to accompany and support their friend. Secondly, I am interested in understanding the steps involved in the public exam. Where is yours? If you choose the first reason, congratulations, I judge you to have a social soul. In contrast, if you choose the second, congratulations too; you are a visionary. You haven't had a chance yet, but you've prepared before doctoral study. But, in addition, if you choose the second reason, you are perhaps selfish too. You know the difference, right? Finally, I have come to understand who is truly sincere and who conveys hidden meanings. To get away from it all, I say thanks to Ms. Dita & Mr. Frank for the permission to make me enter your final presentation in doctoral study.

Ms. Anim and I walk into the room.