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college entrance tests UPCAT

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If you’re reading this article, then give yourself a big pat on the back for passing one of the hardest college entrance tests, the UPCAT, and earning the title of “Iskolar ng Bayan”. A lot of people say that “Getting in UP is hard, but getting out of UP is harder.” Don’t let this scare you because you are just a step away from one of the most exciting and unforgettable periods in your life. At this point, it might seem really intimidating to go from a normal high schooler to a college freshman in one of the top universities in the country, but fret not because here are some tips to help you get through your first year in that huge and breathtaking campus.

  1. ASK, ASK, AND AWAY!

    Don’t know where or how to go to your next class? Can’t find places to eat or spend your break times in? Are you curious on how you can join organizations or add more units? Well, it’s a common tip to just ask the people around you! UP is filled with people who are able and willing to help you throughout your whole stay. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request for assistance when you need it. Besides, even when you’re all sleep-deprived, Iskos will still have each other’s’ backs.

  1. MAKE ACADEMICS A PRIORITY.

    College is a thrilling time filled with countless opportunities for anything and everything. However, never lose sight of your main goal. Be sure to focus on your academics, especially since it’s going to become tougher from here on out. A simple tip would just be to develop your time management skills, and give enough time for each of your subjects. This might be a good time to prepare yourself for your future doses of coffee, all-nighters, blue books, and highlighters.

  1. TRY TO APPLY IN AN ORGANIZATION.

    UP has around 180 registered organizations ranging from academic, cause-oriented, community service, religious, sports, and a whole lot more! As an incoming freshman, it is highly encouraged for you to find organizations you are interested in. Apply, and be active in it. This is a great avenue for you to know yourself better, find your passion, meet new friends, as well as learn and develop your skills. Organizations are definitely a big part of college life, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!

  1. ALWAYS HAVE AN OPEN MIND.

    UP is a place where you will learn a lot, but it is also a place where your principles will be shaken, your perspectives will be shifted, and your beliefs will be questioned. In a college setting, you will see a greater horizon of world views that might startle you or scare you. Remember to try to approach it all with pure openness. Be ready to be awakened with the truths and realities of the world. As the saying goes, “Keep an open mind, but hold on to your values.”

  1. RELAX, TAKE IT EASY, AND HAVE FUN.

    Sure, college might be a stressful time, but it is not impossible to have fun while nailing all those quizzes. Everyone says that your first year is the easiest year there is, so use all those free time wisely! Go out on food trips, have adventures with your friends, explore the campus, and just enjoy your stay in the university! You’ll thank yourself for all those crazy ideas once you look back on your college days and realize just how much fun you had in those few years.

College life is something really unpredictable, so don’t stress yourself out if you don’t have everything figured out yet. Take things one step at a time and remember to give your best shot in all that you do. The UP campus may seem pretty big and scary, but soon enough, you’ll walk along its roads full of confidence and vigor. If you follow these tips, learn to adapt and just be yourself, then you surely have nothing to be worried about.

For details of the 2016 college entrance tests please click here.