Two students from the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program, Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Muhamad Rafi Nur Fauzy and Meifira Arini Pitaloka, have successfully been selected as recipients of the Undergraduate–Master’s (S1–S2) Fast Track Program at FIB UGM. The announcement was made on Friday (17/7/2026) through the official social media account of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM. Through this program, students have the opportunity to pursue undergraduate (S1) and master’s (S2) studies concurrently, allowing them to complete their study period in a shorter time. Both students chose to continue their studies in the Master’s Program in Literature at FIB UGM.
In an online interview conducted on Monday (20/7/2026), both students expressed their gratitude and enthusiasm for being selected as recipients of the FIB UGM Fast Track Program. For Muhamad Rafi Nur Fauzy, the program serves as an opportunity to deepen the knowledge he has acquired during his undergraduate studies. “I aspire to gain a deeper understanding of Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture so that the knowledge I acquire can later benefit society,” he explained. Likewise, Meifira Arini Pitaloka viewed the opportunity to continue her studies through the Fast Track Program as a chance to further develop her academic interests while broadening her knowledge. “I want to continue exploring what I am passionate about by making the most of every opportunity and determination I have,” she said.
Regarding their prospective research at the master’s level, the two students have different academic interests. Rafi hopes to further explore Javanese literature and culture, particularly the existence of the Panji stories in Central Java. “I am interested in further studying Javanese literature and culture, for example, the existence of the Panji stories in Central Java, while the world of Panji itself is more widely associated with Malang,” he explained. Meanwhile, Meifira plans to explore a broader range of literary studies. “I want to try not to limit myself only to Javanese literature. My planned research will still be related to images, perhaps in areas such as comic literature or children’s literature,” she shared.
Both students have also prepared themselves to face the challenges of participating in the Fast Track Program. According to Rafi, the greatest challenge lies in managing his time effectively in order to balance undergraduate and master’s studies. “I want to be more disciplined, make better use of my time for my studies, and set aside time for field research,” he said. On the other hand, Meifira believes that mental preparedness is an equally important aspect. In addition to striving to do her best, she also emphasized the importance of prayer and self-awareness throughout the academic journey. “I will do my best, never forget to pray, and continue building self-awareness in facing the challenges ahead,” she explained.
Concluding the interview, both students shared messages for their fellow students, encouraging them to remain enthusiastic and consistent throughout their academic journey. Rafi encouraged students to consistently pursue what they are genuinely passionate about so that the learning process becomes more enjoyable. “Consistently pursue what you truly enjoy. That way, the learning process will become more enjoyable. Stay motivated, and go through it with ease. Melu ilining banyu ning ora nganti keli (go with the flow of the water, but do not let yourself be carried away by it),” he said. Meifira also shared a similar message. According to her, every choice that has been made should be pursued wholeheartedly and with full responsibility. “Do what you love and love what you do,” she said.
The achievement of Muhamad Rafi Nur Fauzy and Meifira Arini Pitaloka in becoming recipients of the FIB UGM Fast Track Program is expected to inspire other students of the Javanese Language, Literature, and Culture Study Program to continue developing their academic potential and make the most of the opportunities available to them. It is hoped that their journey in pursuing master’s studies will contribute to the advancement of knowledge, particularly in the fields of Javanese language, literature, and culture.
Authos: Haryo Untoro
