Final Student Records

Alifa Perseverance Inspires

Despite having to go through many visits to the hospital, Alifa still persistently catch up on lecture material. One morning, with a calm heart, he listened to an announcement from a Software Engineering lecturer regarding the recipients of the Mid-Semester and Final Semester Exams free tickets. Deg-degan felt all students in the class, including Alifa who did not expect much because of his absence for months due to the disease. Excessive college breaks made him aware of limitations that might affect his results.

"Now I will give you a hint. In this class, there will be two students who deserve credit for their perseverance in learning. Both consist of men and women" said Pak Zul, the lecturer.

Students began speculating who would get the test-free ticket.

Mr. Zul gave another clue regarding the two lucky students.

"These people are on my left and right."

The student sitting in the middle felt no more hope. They're getting curious.

It is time for Mr. Zul to reveal their identity.

"The male student is the Revelation, and the female is the Alifa" he said emphatically.

Alifa surprised. He never imagined that the one chosen was him.

A friend beside him congratulated him with a smile.

"Congratulations! I already know, surely you will get it," Aryani said with a smile on Alifa.

Alifa smiled, still in a state of disbelief. "Yes, thanks. I didn't expect it at all, Ma'am. I've been absent from college because I'm sick."

Alifa called Aryani "Mbak" because Aryani was older than her.

Mr. Zul explained again the reason for choosing Wahyu and Alifa as outstanding students who deserve an award.

"I've been monitoring them since the beginning of college until now. Both are very engaged in learning. All tasks are done well. I was impressed by the dedication of both of them. Congratulations to both of you."

"Thank you, sir," Alifa replied, not knowing what words she could say anymore. The feeling of haru really emanated from the achievements that have been achieved so far.

When Alifa thanked him in a soft voice, a moved expression was clearly visible on her face. He pondered for a moment, remembering his hard struggle in pursuit of falling behind. Every visit to the hospital, every learning effort he made, all of it ended up producing sweet results.

Mr. Zul smiled kindly, seeing Alifa's reaction. "You deserve this appreciation, Alifa. The limitations that you face never prevent you from staying persistent in learning. This is a recognition of your dedication" Zul said sincerely.

Alifa looked at Mr. Zul with pride and gratitude. He felt that his efforts and hard work were not in vain. All of that became even more valuable with the gifts he received today.

Rubbing her slightly teary eyes, Alifa turned towards Aryani who was sitting next to her. "Thank you, Ma'am. You've always supported me and believed in me even though I've been absent from college."

Aryani smiled warmly. "You deserve it, Alifa. It's the result of your own efforts. I'm just happy to be a part of your journey."

In the meantime, the atmosphere in the class was warm. Alifa's friends gave applause and a smile full of support. They acknowledged how hard Alifa was in her quest to catch up.

Mr. Zul continued his announcement of the award plan. "In addition to the exam-free ticket, you will also get access to an extra seminar on software engineering. It's a rare opportunity to further develop your knowledge."

Alifa smiled widely, feeling so lucky to get this chance. His outlook was clearer, his spirit was burning, and he felt ready to face the trials to come.

From the back, the voice calling out Alifa's name echoed. That voice sounds familiar.

"Alifa...! You really, deh. The road is fast" Farah said with a breath of breath. Now, Alifa and Farah faced each other. "Cie. who got a test-free ticket from Mr. Zul," teased Farah as she rubbed her growing belly. Farah has decided to marry a young widower who already has a son. Life is full of choices and that is what Farah chose for her.

"Udah, talking?" Alifa responded while taking a deep breath. "You can't talk quietly, can you? You even forget that you are pregnant. The road is speeding again. You remember not, ever almost fell while I was at my boarding house the other day?"

Farah apologized while shaking her head. "I'm sorry, Alifa. I'm so happy for you. Besides, you're like Farah's mothers, you like to talk a lot. Though, you are not yet a mother," complained Farah with a smile.

The two laugh at each other in the face of this hilarious moment, recalling all the memories and long journey of their friendship.

Laughing, Alifa touched Farah's stomach with warmth. "You and your little one should be healthy, Farah. I'm happy to be friends with you, even though you always surprise me with your spontaneous way."

Farah replied to Alifa's touch with a gentle smile. "Thank you, Alifa. I know you're always there for me. You've always supported me, even in crazy decisions like this."

Alifa smiled and nodded. "Of course, my friend. We always share stories and life's journey. Although we chose a different path, but I'm glad to see you happy."

Farah felt grateful to have a friend like Alifa. "I'm also grateful to have you, Alifa. You are a person who always gives me spirit and inspiration. And now, you should focus on facing your proposal trial exam well. I'm sure you'll be successful."

Alifa nodded firmly. "I will try my best. Thanks for the support, Farah."

With a smile full of warmth, the two of them walked together, chatting about the past, the future, and everything that was shared. Their friendship remains strong, despite their different paths in life. Both realize that true friends always support each other, regardless of differences or choices taken.

After a warm moment with Farah, Alifa and Farah have to part ways at the main gate of the campus. Farah smiled at Alifa while saying, "Come, Alifa. I will be picked up by my husband. Hope the exam is good, yes!"

Alifa smiled back. "Thank you, Farah. May you always be healthy too. Bye bye!"

While Alifa was walking towards her boarding house not too far from campus, Farah continued her steps with her husband who was waiting for her. They go in warm hugs and soft laughs, showing their togetherness and happiness in choosing to live together.

Alifa stepped alone, pondering about everything that had happened today. He felt lucky to have a friend as good as Farah, who was always there for him in his joys and sorrows. When he arrived at his boarding house, Alifa felt his spirit and determination getting stronger. The exam may be challenging, but he knows that with the perseverance and support of his friends, he can deal with it well.

The farewell of Alifa and Farah at the main gate of campus illustrates how life takes us in many directions, but true friendship will always remain, connecting us in strong bonds.

On Alifa's way to her boarding house, the sky slowly changes color, exuding a serene twilight feel. Along the way, Alifa pondered about the beautiful moments she had just experienced. He felt increasingly motivated to face the upcoming tests.

When he arrived at his boarding house, Alifa took off her shoes and sat down for a while at the study table. He opened his book and began to examine the material that needed to be learned. A dim light illuminated the room, creating a serene and solemn atmosphere.

On the sidelines of studying, Alifa recalled the chat with Farah. He smiled as he recalled how his best friend was now starting a new chapter in his life. Although the paths were different, they still supported each other and were together in a strong friendship.

A few hours passed, Alifa felt tired, but was satisfied with her learning efforts. He closed the book with a feeling of relief. Not forgetting, Alifa picked up her mobile phone and sent a short message to Farah.

"May you always be happy, Farah. I'm sure you'll be a great mom. You study hard for the RPL exam later. I will also try my best in the proposal hearing later. Pray that my proposal will soon acc a hearing. See you later!"

After sending the message, Alifa felt relieved. He knew that their friendship would always exist, despite the distance and time separating. With a peaceful feeling, Alifa planned to sleep and face the next day with a new spirit.

...****...