FRESHMEN, welcome to the 401-year-old Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas!
Congratulations to you who have once dreamed of entering this prodigious and prestigious University. Your dreams have now materialized. Indeed, you made the right decision in studying in the oldest university in Asia.
And to those who enrolled in UST because they couldn’t afford the high tuition of elitist institutions, don’t be disheartened. Believe in the power of fate for I know God has better plans for you in UST.
Meanwhile, I also commend you for having crossed over to a new exciting chapter in life—college years.
I still remember two years ago when I was once like you: a happy-go-lucky freshman who had nothing to worry about but grades and friends. I was always excited to come to class every day and I loved staying aimlessly in the University, especially at the Plaza Mayor or Benavides Park (Lover’s Lane) until the lights were shut off. I also enjoyed the cozy atmosphere at the Quadricentennial Park, watching the interactive play of the fountain’s water.
However, you must never forget that UST is not as easy as what your friend in “the premiere state university” would tell you. Times will come when you’ll find yourself tearing your hair out because of the demands of academics. Stressful home works would sometime steal your slumber time.
But put in mind that victories are only sweet if you work hard for them.
Life in UST is no child’s play. You must learn that art of survival. As they always say, “It’s easy to get into UST, but lasting there is a different story.”
I’m already on my third year as a Journalism student. Aside from being an academic scholar, and an officer at the University’s scholar association, Becarios de Santo Tomas, I am also the News editor of the Varsitarian, the official student publication of the University. I can say that I have already mastered the art of survival in college.
These “survival tips” may help you in your stay in UST.
First, do not get intimidated by the pressures of college life. Chill. Relax. Studying with a sound mind always produces good results.
Next, always think of the consequences of the things you do. By now you should be more mature.
Third, be good to others. Swallow your pride. Value the virtue of friendship. It is in college where you will meet who your true friends are. They will serve as your pillars when you feel like falling down.
Fourth, just be yourself. Professors admire more those students who admit they did not study rather than those who lie but can’t answer a single question.
“Magpakatotoo ka, Tomasino ka na.”
Next, do your job as students. Study well, pass your requirements on time, and take time to read and review, even at least once a day. Proper preparations pay off.
Finally, pray. The Santisimo Rosario Parish Church is always open to anyone who wants to feel closer to God. When distressed with the loads of academic and extra-curricular activities, look up. There’s someone up there to ease your pain.
Once again, congratulations and good luck on your Thomasian journey!
Great job, Red! 🙂