By: Marya Ulfa Hasana (234110101065)

 *Student of the Islamic Guidance and Counseling Study Program

Life is not about how hard we hit, but how strong we can endure when hit by circumstances. This survival philosophy is no longer just a discussion in adventure movies; it is the heart of a new movement for those who want to survive. In a world full of academic pressure, economic crisis, and mental health dramas, students in the BKI Study Program at UIN Saizu Purwokerto are now delving into “Resilience” strategies through the lens of Islamic spirituality. Not just surviving, but how to rise again with a better version of oneself.

One of the interesting highlights in the development of counseling on this campus is the integration of Logotherapy (therapy of life meaning) with the concept of Ikhtiar. For many students struggling with economic limitations or final project pressure, surviving is not just about filling their stomachs but about keeping the flame of motivation burning.

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“Islamic Guidance and Counseling here is not just about theory in the classroom. It’s about how an individual remains steadfast when the storm of trials hits them. Because, ultimately, the ability to rise from adversity is the main capital to become the best human being who benefits others,” said Mrs. Dr. Enung Asmaya, M.A.

Resilience has increased in the modern era. Students of the Islamic Guidance and Counseling Study Program emphasize three main pillars of the ‘survival’ strategy for Muslim Millennials. First, Self-Control, which helps manage anger and desires, so they are not destructive when at their lowest. Second, the Adaptive Coping Mechanism, which changes the perspective on problems from a “burden” to a “step towards maturity”. Third, Spiritual Resilience, which believes that every difficulty comes with ease, as stated in (QS. Al-Insyirah verse 6). With these three pillars, a Muslim can improve their mentality and become more resilient in facing life’s challenges.

The Students of the Islamic Guidance and Counseling Study Program are not only trained to survive on their own, but also to be a “compass” for others. With field practices that touch the community, from handling family problems to mentoring children, they prove that counseling is the most powerful survival tool in society.

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The real manifestation of this spirit of resilience was tested when BKI students plunged into Field Experience Practice (PPL) at Class II B Banyumas Detention Center. Behind iron bars and high walls, classroom theories transformed into real humanitarian actions.

At the Detention Center, BKI students didn’t come as judges condemning the past, but as non-judgmental listeners. They faced inmates who had often lost hope. Through Logotherapy, students encouraged inmates to find new meaning in life behind prison walls, believing that past mistakes do not determine the future. Through the Detention Center Festival, which included art and religious activities, they brought new color to the inmates’ lives.

This experience in the legal and correctional realm proves that BKI is a powerful survival tool in society. Facing inmates taught students that every human being, no matter how bad their past choices were, has the right to be heard and guided towards a better path.

“This science is about humanity. When we help others find reasons to survive, we automatically strengthen our own reasons to keep moving,” said a BKI student involved in the activity.

For those feeling stuck or tired of the world’s chaos, maybe it’s time to see how an Islamic perspective can give new “oxygen” to the art of survival. We don’t have to face storms alone; sometimes, telling a story to the right counselor is the first step towards recovery. Because ultimately, survival is not just about physical strength, but about walking with full hope under His guidance.

* Student of the Islamic Guidance and Counseling Study Program, UIN SAIZU Purwokerto 2023