So far, my freshman year at the University of the Philippines (UP) has proved to be a colorful collection of awe-inspiring experiences. Even after nine months, I still can’t believe that I am attending my dream university!

You may get overwhelmed just by walking around. The campus is big, you’d need a jeep to go to your classes. Thankfully, UP has Ikot and Toki jeeps—aptly named in Tagalog—which go around the university. Freshie pro-tip: familiarize yourself with the jeepney routes and don’t panic when the Ikot jeep goes out of the campus. It’ll eventually go back in.

Academics and Time Management

Student life in UP is downright demanding. Sometimes, all requirements are due the same day. You might have three exams consecutively. Although back in high school, we weren’t afraid of having six exams in one day. All-nighters are inevitable and due to our procrastination, we often cram our papers and requirements. This is why we should develop time management skills.

General education (GE) subjects are the heart of the university. Compared to the three major subjects I’ve been “blessed” with on my first semester, my GE subjects are a breath of fresh air. It becomes a hub to discuss relevant events in society. Our professors thoroughly craft their lessons and incorporate social issues. Their objective is to help students to think critically, take a stand on that issue, and instill our national pride.

What About Extracurriculars?

UP has different organizations, be political, provincial, academic, or even mass organization. Each has different thrusts depending on what they advocate. These provide a safe space for students to practice their leadership and develop connections within and outside the university.

These organizations are vocal about issues in the university. Student activism and movements are widespread since UP is a basin of culture and beliefs. Rallies that call for government actions are exercised, thus coining the student phrase, “Iskolar ng Bayan, para sa Bayan.”

Organizations can also be your support group. At the start of the second semester, I started to feel homesick. Fortunately, the first organization I joined not only provided me with academic assistance, they also became my family here in UP. Whenever I’m with them, I feel like I’m home.

The Charms of Dorm Life

UP has dormitories prioritizing students who live far away from the Metro. Luckily, I got accepted in Ilang-Ilang Residence Hall (IlReHa). Aside from skipping Quezon City traffic, IlReHa has dormers with entrepreneurial minds. They provide printing facilities and mini convenience stores within the hall.

IlReHa also houses various food enthusiasts who sell weekday meals. You’ll find tasty food carts and kiosks wherever you turn. The most popular food place in the campus is Area 2, a street lined with affordable foodie haunts. This is where most students pig out after exams.

In just nine months of studying at the university, I came to love the colorful culture that comes with it. Although I’m far away from home, UP has become my second home, and I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything else.

Written by: Gwyn Escueta of Edukasyon.ph; See original article here. Minor edits have been made by Inside Manila Editors

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