My UP Journey + 5 Things I Learned from College

How do I even begin writing this? This post has been sitting in my draft folder for weeks now and I’ve been going back and forth, writing bits and pieces but never got to finish it until now. Prepare for a photo spam post ahead!

 

Let me begin by sharing that UP has always been my dream school. Having a family comprised of 80% UP Alumni, there was no choice but to be pressured-slash-brainwashed to think that it is the best college in the country (no offense against other universities). Fortunately being a nerd and anti-boys in high school paid off (l0l) and I was able to make it to my first choice course and campus, BS Business Administration in Diliman. But the dream didn’t end there, as a famous saying in UP goes, “It is harder to get out than it is to get in.”

The past four years have been a blur — not that it was fast, but that so much has happened and changed in me - physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Four years of never-ending studying, coffee/tea, all-nighters, cases, exams, lines and more lines (UP aka University of Pila). Four years of successes, sacrifices, breakdowns, failures, love, and heartbreaks. Four years of struggling to keep this blog alive (thank you to all those who stuck with me!) - rushing to events right after school and braving traffic, learning to put make-up in the car #lifeskill, and shooting #ootds when I have time (remember my #DressUP section for my school ootds?). Four years worth of memories and friendships that I will forever treasure and keep. Looking back, I am thankful for everything that happened, both good and bad, and don’t have any regrets. Although, I definitely do not want to go through it all over again! Haha.

The best and most challenging four years of my life so far have finally come to an end. “I can’t wait to graduate already!” I recall my second year self saying but now I have mixed feelings #adulting. Before I enter the working world, I wish to share the 5 things I’ve learned in UP with all of you to hopefully help you make your college years as memorable as mine.

1. Never settle.

Be it grades, love life, or friends - never settle. I’ve always been the type of person who tries to give her 101% in anything, and this is primarily because I don’t want to look back and regret that I gave any less. I’m not saying that you should too (since that depends on your personality and work style), but that knowing in your heart that you gave your best is ENOUGH, even if you don’t get the end result you’re hoping for. 🙂 Over the years, I’ve also learned a thing or two about love and friendship, and one is self-respect. Respect yourself enough to know how you want to be treated and loved. Never settle but never feel entitled.

2. Take on opportunities, big or small.

There are so many opportunities inside AND outside of college. Don’t wait for them to come to you! Actively seek them out. Joining school organizations, applying for internships, and starting an online business or a blog - are just some opportunities you can take on as early as now. I’ve started this blog in my last year in high school and although I’ve never really made it my top priority, I’m glad I never let it go. This blog not only brought me to places I’ve never been, but also led me to find my passion (travel) and helped me become more confident. Something as small as a blog can become so much greater - if you just take a chance and try! Never underestimate yourself and be limited by your youth.

3. Learn to say NO.

One of the best things about college is getting to know yourself. Once you do and start to know what you value, when faced with tricky choices, remember to stick by your principles and only say YES to things you know will make grow and make you the best version of yourself. You will thank yourself after, trust me.

4. Take a B R E A K.

Studying ALL THE TIME can drive you crazyyy. Find an outlet or hobby to de-stress! It can be simple as reuniting with old friends, treating yourself to a good meal, reading a non-academic related text, going on a day trip outside of the city, enrolling in a sports class, etc. Taking a break is one way of taking care of yourself and helps you stay focused and inspired in spite of everything going on. There were many times I pushed myself too far to the point that work took a toll on my health. Never forget to rest and recharge! Remember, balance is key.

5. You can’t get by alone.

Truly, no man is an island. I can’t stress enough how I could not have survived college without my family and friends. My course is very heavy on groupworks and finding the right people with the same wavelength and work ethic is especially important. When times get hard, at least you know you know you’re not struggling alone, and that fact alone will keep you sane! Surround yourself with good people who inspires and uplifts you to reach your full potential. 🙂

That’s it! If you’re still in college, I truly hope my five tips will help! Enjoy and make the most out if it! To those out of college already, I hope at least one of them is still relevant to you. 🙂

I am eternally grateful! Salamat UP!

Sophia Bianca B. Ramos

B.S. Business Administration

University of the Philippines - Diliman

Magna Cum Laude

Dean’s Honor List - Rank 4

P.S. TY to my official photographer!! 🙂