Battle of the Unis: De La Salle University with Achi Janaye Villanueva and Achi Justine Bobadilla
What is the best and worst thing about your university?
Achi Janaye: The best part about DLSU really is the sense of family felt in the university, whether it be in the different organizations, even in the relationships and friendships built within blocks and colleges. Coming from the College of Education, this was the best thing for me, that the people I’ve met have now become like my family. Contrary to popular belief, a large percentage of students in the university are also scholars. This is also one thing I appreciate about the university and the equality there is between people. If you have good character and show willingness to improve and grow, DLSU is the best place to be a better you.
Achi Justine: The best thing about DLSU is that the professors are really experienced not only in academics but in their respective fields in society. Some of my professors have their own businesses, worked in multinational companies, and are internationally recognized for their theses and dissertations. Therefore, students can surely learn a lot from them as they share their experiences on their expertise.
Achi Janaye: The worst thing would probably be the different processes we have to go through as students (enrollment/enlistment, request for documents, official graduation rites, etc.). There are so many steps that make these processes a great hassle and more often than not, it may take weeks or months before being able to get a good reply from the offices in the university. Although I do understand that manpower is scarce especially because of the pandemic, I do wish it could be faster or easier for the students/alumni.
Achi Justine: On the other hand, the worst thing about DLSU is the enlistment system process that every student will experience starting from their freshmen years. Yes, the students are given the freedom to choose what time slot or professors they prefer, but the university only opens limited slots so it's a first come first serve basis. With many students accessing the site at the same time, the system crashes and leads to students worrying whether or not they can enlist their subjects, hence I suggest that DLSU should improve the IT system.
How would you describe your university’s culture?
Achi Janaye: First thing that many would say is the “conyo” culture there is in DLSU (HAHA), and there is this illogical half-joking dislike for frosh (This is what DLSU freshmen are called, I really don’t know the reason for this, too). With this culture, it also encouraged me to stand up more and to be salt and light. Although it is mostly just said and done as part of a joke, this can also be an opportunity for you to be different, show what it is like to have Christ in you, extend kindness to the people around you and make a difference. While these may be true to some extent, I would say also that the motto “For God and country” really shows in the culture as well. The things you learn from the great professors and people you will meet will really make you think of how you can use your talents to serve God and others, never to glorify yourself! Use this as an opportunity to share the gospel, be bold about your faith and continue to strive for excellence and character wherever God places you!
Achi Justine: I would say that DLSU’s culture is prioritizing academic excellence as well as promoting leadership and extracurricular activities. Majority of the students are enthusiastic to learn and step out of their comfort zone to have extracurricular activities such as joining organizations. Even in an online setting, many students bloom out of their shells and soar through joining central committees for events, run for officerships in known organizations, and do socio-civic activities to help those in need. Lasallians are known to grasp opportunities to grow and learn. DLSU also prioritizes the welfare of their students and the community through service-oriented activities to provide assistance to those in need and do fundraising activities.
What is the most important thing a student in your university must possess?
Achi Janaye: A solid relationship with God which leads to a solid sense of self that isn’t shaken by tough circumstances and a sense of security that is present despite a lot of uncertainty surrounding said circumstances! In DLSU, you will meet different people and be exposed to many different perspectives that may sometimes challenge you and what you believe in, and this is why it is very important to put God in the center of your life and fight for your time with Him! Stand firm in His Word no matter what others say or what’s trending at school. Also, surround yourself with people who also live for the Gospel and who encourage you to improve yourself and be better every day.
Achi Justine: The most important character that a DLSU student must possess is to have time management because in a university, it is not only about academics but also about the journey and experience. A university student must learn how to balance what is given on their plate. Planning and setting time management to fulfill one’s responsibilities would be the best characteristic that will lead a student to success both in academics and extracurricular. Another is to collaborate with others because as you go into college you will be meeting a lot of diverse people. You can learn from their own experiences and their passion to serve for a greater purpose.
What are some of the expectations your university has for applying students?
Achi Janaye: Good research and communication skills are key. DLSU is a research university so expect a lot of readings, research papers, and presentations. If you want to go to DLSU, make sure you make the most out of your research classes even in high school. These really helped me in college and were a great advantage for me. Keep being open to learning new things, take risks and take every opportunity as an avenue for learning and improvement!
Achi Justine: As a future university student, one is expected to be adaptable to your surroundings. In the university, you will be meeting different professors, classmates, and group mates that you must work with. One is also expected to be willing and determined to learn both inside and outside of the classroom. DLSU shapes their students to become change-makers to bring positive impact to the society. Don’t be afraid to try new things and get out of your comfort zone! It’s all about reaching out to others and growing in unexpected ways!
What are some words of advice you would give to MGCNLCA students planning to apply to your university?
Achi Janaye: Invest in things that will matter.
Do not compromise your relationship with God. When you take out everything related to church in your life, how are you really with the Lord? Make sure to make your relationship with Him a priority, your number 1. Do not compromise your time with Him. Trust me when I say that putting God first will put everything else into place. Entrust everything to Hi and do your best for His glory!
Invest in your relationships with others. If you have a block, make friends and find those who will stick with you and be with you in the journey. Everyone’s schedules change after your 2nd term as you will be enlisting for your classes on your own after that. This means you will have to be more international in making your own opportunities to bond with your friends, too! One way to meet new people is to join orgs! DLSU is a very org-rich university, so join the ones you think will fit you best! Be active so you can gain opportunities and meet people even outside your college, expand your circle, too!
Reach out and be active in sharing your hope in Jesus! Be the light! Know that God has placed you where He wants you to be and that our main purpose in life is to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever! Show others what it is like to have Jesus in your heart. Extend kindness in every way you can, insert Bible verses as you speak to others, encourage, or pray for them. Do not be ashamed of your faith, proudly let others know you are a Christian and live for Christ!
Join a small group. Being in a new environment may be difficult, adjusting to college and being exposed to many new things can be overwhelming, and being able to have a group of Christians who will keep you grounded in your faith and support you through it is a great help! Reach out to your church, or join Elevate (Taft or Manila)! You can also ask us alumnis and we can help connect you to one!
Continually communicate with your family and make time for them. Remember that your family is and should always be your priority, too! Make time for your parents and siblings, block off schedules just to spend time with them, be open to them and pray with them, too! No matter what you are or will go through, your family is your ministry and your support always.
Be ready for failure. It hurts at the start but always look for where you can improve and resolve not to give up! Ask the Lord for help in things you don’t know and trust that He will pull through! Persevere and remember that there is and always will be things for you to learn. Stay humble, everyone you will meet will have something to teach you. Ask for wisdom from the Lord always to have a discerning mind, open heart and a diligent spirit to do everything for His glory!
Achi Justine: An advice I can give to MGCNL students that are planning to apply to DLSU is to seek advice from the higher batches on what to expect on the course you are planning to take as they can give tips and share their learnings. Have a background check on the courses you want to take in DLSU and do a little research so you can better prepare yourselves once you step into college life. Lastly, is to grab every opportunity given to you because who knows, you might be able to excel and soar.
Comentários