TAKI: My Way Out of Thesis Hell

To be honest, I used to think that graduating from college was definitely through a thesis. There was no other choice. But it turns out, the campus gave another option called TAKI (Final Scientific Paper Assignment). At first I thought this was like a fast track or a “shortcut,” but after I did it myself, it turned out to still be full of struggle and… quite challenging. 

TAKI is open to students who actively create scientific works, whether it’s articles, learning media, or academic projects that meet certain standards. In my study program, I happened to join a scientific article writing program with lecturers and friends. The article was processed seriously: from finding a topic, library research, writing up to five pages long, revising it many times, using journal references, and even having to follow a template. And you can’t just do it haphazardly the final result must be ready to be published in a journal. 

What makes it different from a regular thesis is that in TAKI we focus more on academic writing and the results can really be used or read by the public. Not just a formality. On the other hand, the challenges are still there: lecturers can revise it many times, time is tight, and sometimes enthusiasm goes up and down too. But the good thing is, I don't have to go to the field or make a questionnaire, and that really helps me mentally. 

In my opinion, the TAKI pathway can be a good alternative for students who have a passion for writing or who have certain limitations when it comes to conducting field research. But don't get me wrong — this is not an "easier" pathway, just a different form. It also requires hard work, discipline, and critical thinking. 

Do I regret choosing this pathway? Not at all. In fact, I'm happy because the work I create can be more "alive" not just piled up on the campus library shelves. And for me personally, this process also helped me get to know the academic world better, not just for the sake of graduating. 

So for friends who are currently confused about working on their thesis or feel stuck, maybe you can start finding out about alternative pathways like TAKI. Who knows, it might be a more suitable path for you!!!