UA&P I AM S.T.R.O.N.G. : be COLLEGE-ready!

Krystle writes

I understand that most college entrance exam results will be out this month? Well, inspired by that, here’s *something I dug up (well, partially) not really not really to help the HS seniors out there (it would be late for that now, would it?) but the juniors and the lower batches. =p

*from the article, “College Bound” by Zia Morales

Ready for the big league? Here’s a quick guide to getting into your dream university.

STEP 1: CHARTING YOUR COURSE
Some people are lucky enough to know what their calling is at an early age. Most people do not, and panic at the pressure comes high in selecting a college course. If you fall under the latter category, relax! College is all about self discovery so expect several changes in your list of plans during that four-year span.

Unfortunately, college begins with an application process—and all application forms require you to select a specific course for enrollment. If you’re having trouble at this point, a talk with your parents, guidance counselor or homeroom adviser might help clear your head. Your teachers can also give you pressure-free advice. On your own, try to figure out what your skills and interests are. Do you enjoy learning about the inner-markings of the mind? Then Psychology might be for you. Do you have a special skill in selling stuff? Think about Marketing. Base your decision partly on what you’d love to learn about—school is, after all, a place to learn.

Remember, you can always shift to another course. Also, contrary to popular belief, the course you take in college doesn’t seal your future career fate. Think of it as the first step toward a life-long, ever-changing adventure.

STEP 2: CHOOSING YOUR SCHOOL
Are you the biggest Blue Eagles fan on the face of the planet? The prospect of running into Chris Tiu on campus might sound exciting but that shouldn’t be the basis for selecting the university to attend to. There are several schools in and around Manila, not to mention the provinces.

Carefully consider what each school offers in terms of curriculum, extracurricular activities and facilities. Tuition fees, location and academic reputation are also important factors in your decision. University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, University of Asia and the Pacific, De La Salle University and University of Santo Tomas are generally considered the best schools in the country. If this matters to you, then you should aim for these schools.

Pick a school that best fit your needs and wants. Are you a promising athlete? Pick a school that has a strong athletic program. Are you thinking of being a computer professional? Then consider applying to one of the computer colleges. Apply to at least 3 schools to guarantee that you get into at least 1 school of your choice.

STEP 3: APPLY YOURSELF
The application process for each school varies. Once you’ve narrowed down the list of the schools you’re interested in, contact their respective Admissions departments for specific requirements. There are some constants—all schools require completed application forms, high school grades, application fees and photos. You will also have to take (and pass) an entrance exam to gain entry into your school of choice.

STEP 4: PREPARATION IS KEY
What’s next? Since competition is fierce, giving yourself an added advantage over your fellow applicants might just give you the edge you need. If you are nervous about your chances, a tutorial center will help you brush up on your lessons and prepare you for your exams.

If you don’t get into the school of your choice, don’t take it as a stake in the heart of your future. Sometimes, the best things in life are the ones you don’t plan for—the school you do get into might be the right one for you. And if it isn’t—you can always enroll in your dream school as a transfer student. Remember, the path to college need not be straight and narrow. As with life, always be prepared to take some twists and turns along the way.

What do the HS seniors think? Help us help the incoming batches—share your thoughts and experiences. And, goodluck with the upcoming entrance exam results! =)

Oh and to the lower batches, are you ready for college? Let us know what you think! =P