Jatinangor — Wednesday, February 13, 2026. The Library and Information Science Study Program recorded a notable achievement through the graduation of its first fast-track (S1–S2) student, Annisya Disa Astrina, S.S.I., M.I.Kom. Annisya became the first graduate from the fast-track pathway, completing her undergraduate studies in the Library and Information Science Study Program and continuing to the Master of Communication Science program with a specialization in Information and Library Studies.
The master’s thesis defense was held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 13:00 to 14:00 WIB at the Master of Communication Science Examination Room, Postgraduate Building, Faculty of Communication Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran. During the examination, Annisya was supervised by Dr. Ute Lies Siti Khadijah, S.Sos., M.Si. and Dr. Edwin Rizal, M.Si., and examined by Prof. Dr. Ninis Agustini Damayani, M.Lib., Dr. Yunus Winoto, M.Pd., and Dr. Elnovani Lusiana, M.Si.
Annisya’s decision to join the fast-track program was driven by her long-standing personal commitment to pursue the highest possible level of education. She first learned about the fast-track opportunity during her undergraduate thesis supervision with Dr. Ute Lies Siti Khadijah. With a qualifying GPA and only her thesis remaining in the seventh semester, she applied for the program in her sixth semester. She began attending master’s-level courses in the seventh semester under the condition that her undergraduate degree be completed on time, which she successfully fulfilled by graduating with distinction.
The fast-track selection process required applicants to submit a recommendation letter from the undergraduate Head of Study Program, a TOEFL certificate, TPA scores, and an essay outlining motivation, proposed research, and post-graduation goals. After the documents were verified, candidates proceeded to the interview stage. Annisya attended the interview with Dr. Edwin Rizal, M.Si. and Dr. Yanti Setianti, M.Si., where her academic commitment and financial readiness were assessed. Following the interview, candidates awaited the official admission announcement.
Throughout her studies, Annisya found that the master’s coursework deepened and reinforced the knowledge she had gained during her undergraduate program. However, she experienced challenges during the thesis-writing phase due to the minimal transition period between her bachelor’s and master’s studies. As a result, her completion time extended from the targeted four semesters to five semesters. With strong support from her parents, supervisors, and the academic community, she successfully completed her studies with a GPA of 3.91 and graduated with distinction. She also expressed appreciation to her supervisors and examiners for their guidance and constructive discussions throughout the defense process.
The fast-track program is considered to offer several advantages, including a more efficient study timeline and financial benefits, particularly in the first semester of the master’s program, which still uses the undergraduate tuition scheme. Although the program requires strong academic and mental readiness, it is highly relevant for high-achieving students with long-term academic goals, including aspirations to become lecturers or researchers. The study program encourages interested students to consult with the Head of Study Program, academic advisors, or administrative staff for further guidance on requirements and application procedures.
Author: Annisya Disa Astrina
