A New Chapter Begins: Celebrating the Triumph of English Language and Literature Graduates

Bandung, UPI

On January 31, 2025, the Faculty of Language and Literature Education at Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia witnessed a significant event as twelve dedicated students from the English and Literature Study Program gathered to defend their research reports. This occasion marked a crucial milestone in their academic journeys, with graduation scheduled for February 19, 2025. The defense exams represented not only a formal assessment of their research and understanding, but also a celebration of their hard work, commitment, and intellectual growth throughout their studies.

Under the leadership of the esteemed Head of the Study Program, Prof. Eri Kurniawan, M.A., Ph.D., the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Prof. Kurniawan expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments, stating, “I am incredibly pleased with the results of this year’s defense exams. The students have shown remarkable dedication and intellectual depth, and their achievements reflect the high standards of our program. It is a joy to witness so many of them graduating with distinction.”

Among the twelve students, eight stood out by earning the prestigious cum laude (with honors) designation, a recognition reserved for those who have excelled academically.

The cum laude graduates are as follows:

1. Priscilia Tsany Darajat (2100229)
2. Umi Khoirunnisa (2100783)
3. Alanis Azka Rayya (2100984)
4. Arletta Ratu Bertantra (2103391)
5. Taqiya Zahra (2103463)
6. Lutfi Arief Noerjaman (2103549)
7. Zahra Aisyatul Mutmainnah (2103948)
8. Jihan Salimah Muwahid (2108762)

In addition to these high achievers, four students graduated with the predicate “Sangat Memuaskan,” which translates to “Very Satisfactory.” These students demonstrated commendable performance and are also set to graduate alongside their peers:

1. Salsabila Rahma Aryanti Sudrajat (1805279)
2. Rafi Hardiansyah (2005093)
3. Muhammad Arifqi (2006910)
4. Fatimah (2007468)

The defense exams were a showcase of the students’ hard work and creativity. Each student presented their thesis, engaging in a lively dialogue with the panel of examiners. The room was filled with a mix of nervous energy and excitement as students passionately defended their research, demonstrating their readiness to step into the professional world.

Reflecting on her experience, Umi Khoirunnisa,  one of the cum laude graduates, shared, “The defense exam was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. It was a moment to showcase all the effort I put into my thesis. I am incredibly grateful for the support of my supervisors and classmates throughout this journey.”

Meanwhile, Taqiya Zahra echoed her sentiments, stating, “I felt a whirlwind of emotions during my defense. It was a fantastic opportunity to engage with my research and receive valuable feedback. I am proud to graduate alongside my friends and celebrate this achievement together.”

Lutfi Arief Noerjaman, another cum laude graduate, expressed his gratitude for the program’s nurturing environment. “The English and Literature Study Program has been a transformative experience for me. The faculty’s encouragement pushed me to strive for excellence. I am excited to take the next steps in my career, armed with the knowledge and skills I’ve gained.”

The success of these students is a testament to the quality of education provided by the Faculty of Language and Literature Education. Prof. Kurniawan emphasized the importance of fostering a supportive academic environment, stating, “Our mission is to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in their future endeavors. We are proud of their accomplishments and look forward to seeing them make meaningful contributions to society.”

As the students prepare for graduation, they are filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the future. Salsabila Rahma Aryanti Sudrajat, one of the graduates with the “Very Satisfactory” predicate, remarked, “Graduating is a bittersweet moment. I will miss the camaraderie and vibrant campus life, but I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. I hope to continue my studies and make a difference in the field of linguistics or literature.”

As these twelve students prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them not only the knowledge and skills acquired during their time at the Faculty of Language and Literature Education but also the invaluable experiences and friendships forged along the way. Their successful defense exams are a testament to their resilience and dedication, and they stand as a source of inspiration for future cohorts. As they step into the world beyond the university, these graduates are poised to make meaningful contributions to society, armed with the power of language and literature to effect change. With their graduation on the horizon, they are reminded that this is not just an end, but a new beginning filled with endless possibilities. The Faculty of Language and Literature Education eagerly anticipates the impact these remarkable individuals will have in their respective fields, and we celebrate their achievements as they take their first steps into a bright future. Congratulations to the  graduates of 2025! (Contributor: Ruswan Dallyono)