The month of Ramadhan has passed, and for the extended family of the Surabaya Integrated Science and Technology Institute (ISTTS), the moment of Eid al-Fitr is something that is eagerly awaited. The ISTTS journalist team has conducted a survey with students to explore their unique experiences during this holy month. Are they enjoying the month of Ramadan with lots of fun? How can they get through fasting while diligently attending classes? Let's see their response!
Aniefa Wahyu Firdiyanti, one of the class of 2022 students, shared her experience of fasting in a busy campus environment. "I once broke my fast during UTS because I had a fever. Finally I decided to have lunch on campus hehe," he said. However, despite being tested by various challenges, Aniefa still maintains her unique traditions, such as giving sungkem to her parents and grandmother when Eid al-Fitr arrives.
Meanwhile, Eifelline Marsyanda, another class of 2022 student, told about her routine during the Eid al-Fitr celebration. From waking up early for Eid prayers to preparing cakes and drinks to welcome guests to her home, Eifelline feels great joy in carrying out her family's traditions. However, amidst this joy, he also faces tests of faith and lust. "During fasting, my faith is tested by class friends who often speak harshly. During this fast, my lust is also tested by friends who eat in class," he said.
Typical family traditions are an inseparable part of Eid al-Fitr celebrations. Eifelline follows Islamic traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation, such as starting the fast with water and dates and giving THR when visiting relatives' houses.
However, behind the tradition, there are sincere hopes and prayers from the two students. Aniefa and Eifelline hope that their sins will be forgiven and receive more additional THR, as well as gain blessings and success in the coming year.
Apart from that, Francesca Salsabila or Salsa, a class of 2023 student, also provided unique insight into how she celebrates Eid al-Fitr. Salsa expressed the moment of gathering with his hometown family which was filled with joy with family he had not seen for a long time. Where they exchange parcels, and share THR and delicious snacks. Not only that, they also spend time talking and playing with their relatives. According to Salsa, the things that are done during Eid al-Fitr are moments when something that has been far away is brought closer again.
Fasting during college was a very unique experience for Salsa. Being in a new environment where religions are very diverse, there will definitely be moments where some of our friends from different religions are not aware that we are fasting. This also happened when Salsa's friend accidentally invited her to eat together. This moment reminds us of the importance of tolerance and mutual respect between religious communities. Despite their different beliefs, Salsa and her friends still maintain close friendships.
Farrah Amrilia Chelsea, student class of 2023, also wants to share her interesting experiences during the month of Ramadan at ISTTS. In the midst of busy lectures and busy assignments, Farrah has to restrain herself from the desires and temptations that come from the friends around her. Sometimes, he is faced with a situation where his friends casually tease him or invite him to eat together before it is time to break the fast. This is certainly a test of patience for Farrah who wants to remain steadfast in carrying out her fast. Despite that, he managed to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with a heart full of patience.
Farrah also did not forget to apologize to all her friends for any mistakes she may have made during the month of Ramadan. "I'm sorry if there have been wrong words and actions minal aidin wal faidzin, I apologize physically and mentally." he said with full sincerity.
With the various experiences and hopes they shared, the ISTTS extended family celebrated Eid al-Fitr with full happiness and optimism. It is hoped that the spirit and togetherness in celebrating Eid al-Fitr can continue to strengthen ties between all members of the campus community, creating a harmonious and loving environment.