Dear you who decided to take a step forward despite all the terror stories you have heard; you who decided to continue walking this path of uncertainty; and you who are just here because of the fear of being left behind;
Welcome to the world where none of these matter.
For some, entering college is the beginning of a new life, to expand horizons, and to exceed limitations. However, regardless of reason, everyone must go through perhaps the most astounding year for every student—the freshman year.
It is when culture shock, adjustments to new schedules, environment, and curriculum, as well as the fear of something unfamiliar, are all felt simultaneously. It is when everything starts to either make sense or fall apart or both.
But just like every other story of greatness, everything always begins with a prologue.
At PUP: Stories Told, Stories To See
The mantra “Mula sa’yo, para sa bayan” of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines shapes its students to answer the call to serve the people.
But this story has versions told by diverse people.
As freshmen, it is inevitable to be perplexed by stories about PUP you might have already heard from the internet, current and former students, and just everywhere. With this, here are some of the most known PUP-related sentiments and the truth behind them to help you outline the plot of your own Sintang Paaralan story.
Professors do not attend classes. There are only two types of complaints about professors in PUP: Either they do not take classes until at least the last few weeks of the semester, or that they do not miss a single day of class. Your professor-related experiences in PUP depend on your luck. You could experience either of the two or both.
But having those kinds of professors, one thing is certain and seen as normal in the college: You must learn by yourself and you need to stand on your feet.
Classes are difficult. Classes in PUP are rather fun and enjoyable; it is, however, the workload and requirements that make it heavy and subjectively, heavy for students. College is definitely hard, and Sinta is not an exemption.
But despite the challenging activities, it teaches the students real-life experiences on how to deal and stand with the masses.
Students are smart and competitive. PUP is indeed home to some of the best students in the country. You will be surrounded by future professionals, public servants, and more.
Entering PUP will open your eyes to the fairytale you used to believe that “I am the most intelligent and I am perfect.”
Reality will slap you that you are not an exemption, being the top of the class for a decade will not matter because you are surrounded by Iskolar ng Bayan.
But unlike the competitions you might have competed in, college is mostly a battle between you and yourself. You are both your greatest enemy and your biggest ally.
Student-friendly meals. From milkteas to street foods to tapsilugans, the streets outside the university premises are filled with affordable food stalls. The good thing is that you do not really have to worry about your budget as most of these are meant for students.
Nothing is cold and easy. If your desired university life is one of comfort and convenience, PUP may not be for you. It is always scorching hot in Sinta, and almost everything has long lines. Always have your own fan, an extra bag of clothes, towels, and a bucket of patience.
Activism recruitment is rampant in PUP.
Sadly, PUPians are subject to unwanted and unnecessary stereotypes and red-tagging. Unlike the stories you may have seen and heard somewhere, organizations in PUP only hone students’ leadership skills, critical thinking, and social consciousness. Those stories were just made to further demonize a constitutionally granted right—protesting.
The Magic of Your Prologue
Write your prologue as exciting and creative as you want. The plot twists and turns of events are all in your hands. So, relax, do not rush things; enjoy every moment, and take risks. Grab every opportunity you see.
Do not let time lead you to a place where your regrets and what ifs are greater than your sense of fulfillment.
This is where magic begins. This is where you will see yourself do things you didn’t know you can do; where you will see yourself become someone you never imagined you will ever be; and where you will see things go better and worse than you thought they could ever be.
Fear nothing, and may all the firsts, experiences, and encounters in your prologue lead you to anywhere you want your story to conclude.
Article:
Graphics:
Comments