by Lorelyn Centino
It's almost the end of the school year for Senior High School students, a bittersweet moment of 'goodbye' and 'hello' as you bid farewell to your youthful high school life to welcome yourself into the more complex world of college. Considering the change in education curriculum, you may or may not have prepared yourself enough for this awaited transition but either way, it would always be helpful to learn from those who have walked the path before you.
The idea of finally being in college would excite you at first, especially for those who plan to study away from home, like in Baguio. Apart from being considered the center of education in North Luzon, Baguio is very inviting to incoming college students, local and foreign students alike, because of the soothing climate unique to the place.
While studying in a foreign place appears like a whole new adventure at first, remember that adventures are also risky and dangerous. You might be lost along the way or lose track of where you're going. You may not even find your way out. When things like these happen, compose yourself and remember these things:
Familiarize yourself with the Unfamiliar
'Unfamiliar' not only pertains to the city in general but also with the people, the culture, the school you're going to enroll at and the lifestyle you need to be adapted with. It's the first and most important thing to know especially for foreign students or those who came from distant cities or provinces. Read about these things or experience it firsthand.
When in a place that is new and unfamiliar, you will be curious and adventurous, but there is also a natural fear of the unknown. Don't let fear overpower the urge to satisfy curiosity. Ask someone about something you don't know or about the place you wanted to go to. Be familiar with the architecture and rules of your university. Immerse yourself into the new environment and embrace the new level of knowledge you are about to have.
Be Independent and Responsible
To be a college student is both a privilege and a responsibility.
It is a pleasure to finally live the independent life you've always wished for when you were in high school but remember that it is also a responsibility you owe to yourself. No one will be accountable for all the decisions you will make and all the actions you will take but yourself, so try your best to choose and do only what is good. Take care of yourself because no one is there to do it for you. You may enjoy the independence most of the time but you will surely miss the comfortable routine you used to have back home.
Now that you are alone on your own, you need to prepare your own breakfast, shop your groceries and do your laundry. All of that along with the workloads and demands of school you also need to fulfill.
Be your own Financial Manager
Being away from your family would make you realize how highly skilled your parents are when it comes to budgeting finances. Be careful with spending too much on fancy foods and unnecessary things once you get your monthly allowance because if not, you'll probably end up miserable at the end of the month.
Spend your money wisely and try to save some for emergency purposes. You will now pay bills for your dormitories or boarding houses. There are also expenses you need to pay in school. You can't just keep asking for additional money when you run short. Learn to prioritize your needs before your wants. That's how you know you're already an adult.
Manage your Time
In high school, you have the luxury to rest at home after a stressful day in school, you might also want to leave that kind of leisure behind when you enter college.
You will be greeted with piles of semestral requirements, exams and other activities that are twice or thrice the amount of school work you are required to comply in high school. Keep in mind that you also need to juggle these things with your chores and duties in your dorm or boarding house.
Time is a luxury you cannot afford to waste. It's hard, but try to avoid procrastinating or else you'll be drowned with the workloads that will continuously pile up. Take note that in college, an 8-hour sleep is already a privilege.
Take a Break
Looking after your mental and physical health is as equally important as fulfilling all the responsibilities given to you upon entering college. Yes, you need to complete all the requirements and meet the deadlines. Yes, you need to pass all your exams to make your parents proud and yes, you need to study hard but in between these things, take a break and learn to pause once in a while.
The college will require so much from you as future professionals who will serve the country. Expectations will be set for you to meet but not to the extent of sacrificing your well-being. Rest when you're tired and don't be guilty about it. Even machines need recharging when their batteries run out of energy.
Find your constant/s
Hard times become bearable with good company. No matter the stress college life may bring you, if you have friends to share it with, you will be fine. Their presence and support will be an additional source of strength to help you get through the rough days. Finding a friend or a group who will be the anchor to keep you steady is the key to survival.
Enjoy the ride!
They say high school is the most unforgettable stage in a student's life, but wait till you get to college. It will bring out the best and worst versions of you. It will make you both laugh and cry the loudest and it is when you will fall the hardest. The ride is a mix of both smooth and bumpy roads yet it is one you will not want to miss. It is hard to define college in a nutshell because the experience is relative. So, it is up for you to discover.
Edited by Dayanella Jucutan