THE CAMPUS was filled with cheers last month when the more than 12,000 new Thomasians stepped into the mossy pavements of the hallowed España grounds during the Welcome Walk.
This new chapter is more than just the start of a school year. For the UST freshies, it is the beginning of a journey filled with changes, challenges and chances.
Now that the University has implemented the 2:1 onsite-online mode of learning, it is time to navigate what may be a daunting yet exciting stage for new students.
The Flame compiled some tips from the freshies’ ates and kuyas to ensure that they make the most out of their college life.
Embrace the community
While some may say it is UST’s remarkable activities that separate the University from others, Concilium Philosophiae chancellor Jan Austine Gan believes it is the community.
Despite what Gan described as the 413-year-old institution’s “conservative upbringing,” he praised the student body’s quest for progress. He also commended the Thomasian community’s efforts to push for inclusivity and to combat stereotypes.
“Creativity should be explored, as opposed to being repressed,” Gan said.
Expect challenges
Unexpected challenges are not rare in college. In fact, they may be encountered once in a while; may it be in one’s academic career, friends, loved ones or life in general.
For Philosophy junior Aiverson Gaffud, freshies should anticipate challenges.
“UST will challenge your beliefs in many different ways. You will have ideals that will change and some that you will hold firm,” Gaffud said.
He recounted how his faith was tested during the pandemic, a period that cast a shadow over his early freshman year. However, meeting a classmate eventually altered his perspective on God.
“It was not something like he forced me to be a Catholic again, but rather it was how he lived his life, how he was a student of philosophy yet was still unshaken towards his faith, those things struck a chord with me and helped me be on the path of believing again,” Gaffud said.
“Change is part of growth, but you have to be true. Don’t lose yourself in the process of fitting in.”
Explore the campus
Step into a world of endless possibilities within the campus grounds by visiting spots that will cater to one’s needs and interests.
For some, it is the Miguel de Benavides Library, which boasts a vast catalog of historical books and artifacts. It also has an accessible online index and an extensive archive that houses some of the rarest documents that provide key information about the history of the country and that of UST.
But some recommend jamming with friends during their free time. Journalism sophomore Carl Adrian Cruz encouraged freshmen to bond with friends at the Benavides Park, popularly known as Lover’s Lane.
The Lover’s Lane is an ideal spot not only to have deep conversations but also to share some lighthearted stories or chika as it is in the heart of the University.
“I used to bring our acoustic guitars and sing our hearts out there. It is not for lovers only,” Cruz said.
Enjoy the events
English Language Studies student Ernest Cale Manlapig said students must not miss UST events, especially the much-awaited Paskuhan festivities such as the Agape or communal feast and the concert.
Aside from serving free food and showcasing a star-studded lineup of performers, the festivities are “a breath of fresh air” after a series of strenuous academic work, Manlapig added.
Gan believes joining organizations and participating in the hosting of such events is an integral part of one’s self-development and learning.
“Beyond the classroom setup, there’s so much you can learn from the events in your organization,” he said.
“When you want to learn more as a student, you have to really put in extra effort when you can, and I think taking advantage of the opportunities that the organizations offer you is incredibly important as you enter reality beyond the four walls of the classroom.”
Prepare for hug culture
Aside from the “ghosters” stereotype, Thomasians are also known for their “hug culture,” where students hug each other in hallways as a form of greeting.
“Even though I don’t know the person, I still greet them with a hug, and it’s really comforting. I grew by adapting to this culture and unconsciously hugging the person whenever I greet them,” Communication senior Arch Angel Abella said.
Remember the essentials
Every grand adventure starts with proper preparation. As one sets sail on this new academic journey, it is important to be equipped with the must-haves for a smooth expedition.
Communication senior Cathrina Aquino suggested bringing an umbrella daily. After all, the joke that one cannot claim to be a true Thomasian if he or she has not experienced a flood in the University is not without basis.
“The sun may shine upon most of our days but you’ll never know when a dark cloud could cast their shadow upon us,” she said.
Essentials, however, need not be material things.
Manlapig cited the importance of “finding the right circle” of friends, saying it would help students grow.
For Cruz, taking a breather with friends is a must. He suggested taking late-night walks or going out as part of one’s unwinding activities.
“It’s okay to play around, there’s a good balance in everything. Hindi lang naman puro aral ang college (College is not just about academics),” he added.
In contrast, Abella emphasized the need to have a good sleep, manage one’s time and know one’s priorities.
“Sleep, sleep and sleep. Huwag na mag puyat! (Do not stay up late!) Manage your time and have a healthy lifestyle,” he said.
Believe in yourself!
Journalism sophomore Cedee Abesamis advised freshies to enjoy and to believe that they can survive college life.
Abesamis noted that the road to a college degree won’t be without heartbreaks.
“It was such a different playing ground compared to high school. The stakes are higher, and the pressure is tougher. I wept a lot before but I even had a chance to smile,” she said.
From rejected applications to failed auditions, Abesamis is no stranger to failure, but she is never blind to the light that has always been at the end of the tunnel.
“It is important to just feel things, it really is hard to survive here, but at the end of the day, Tomasino tayo, kaya natin ‘to (We are Thomasians. We can do it),” she said. F
