The period between graduating from Senior High School and attending your first college class is often the most confusing. No one really talks about it, but after working hard for almost two years and applying to various universities, it’s natural to feel lost for a bit. From having a tightly structured schedule, you now suddenly have to build your own—choosing your subjects, planning your time, and navigating your independence.

Inspired by Jack Edwards’ The Uni-Verse: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving University, this article explores how Filipino 18- to 20-year-olds can manage the next four years of their college life.

DOs

Get involved in campus activities and organizations

Joining school organizations can be fun—yes, it may feel cringey at first—but many activities are unique to your university. Most schools have freshman welcoming events, college intramurals, Christmas celebrations, and even send-offs for graduating seniors. These all need people to help organize: scriptwriters, hosts, photographers, or even overall directors of events.

Being active in organizations also helps you build experience in your chosen field. For instance, it’s not unusual for a journalism major to join the school publication. It’s a great way to practice what you’re studying and build your portfolio.

Build good relationships with your peers and professors

Kindness goes a long way. College is a fresh start, so let go of shyness and try to connect with your classmates. Respect your professors—they can give advice, write recommendations, and even refer you to internships.

Having a strong support system can really shape your college experience. These friendships don’t have to be limited to your block; they can also come from other classes, student orgs, or even different universities.

Take advantage of student discounts and share commuting hacks

Most students commute, so travel tips become a common bonding experience. You can’t talk about your commute without someone offering a faster, cheaper, or safer route.

Beep cards, mototaxi vouchers, and cash are a commuter’s essentials. Getting around Metro Manila is manageable—as long as you’re near an LRT or MRT line. If you rely on mototaxis like Angkas, MoveIt, or Maxim, stock up on e-vouchers to save money. But always prioritize your safety when traveling.

Plan for the future

You are privileged to be in college—whether in a public or private university—so make the most of it. You’re not just learning for yourself but also building a better future for those around you. Keep your long-term goals in mind and align your experiences to boost your resume and portfolio.

Networking is key. The job landscape today is largely about who you know. Start building connections early, and when you ask for a favor, don’t forget to return one.

DON’Ts

Don’t procrastinate

It’s tempting to put things off, but it only makes things harder. Establish a study routine that works for you. Some people tackle easier tasks first, others dive into the harder ones—it doesn’t matter as long as you’re consistent.

You’ve probably heard the phrase “Due day is do day,” and yes, some weeks will be packed. Still, try to work on tasks as early as you can.

Don’t neglect your studies

Socializing and joining orgs are important, but don’t lose sight of why you’re in college: to learn. Pass your classes and take your education seriously.

Sure, you might feel pressured to get perfect grades—and that’s a valid goal—but make sure your experiences and skills match your academic record.

Don’t skip classes unnecessarily

Skipping once or twice can easily snowball into a habit. It may seem harmless, but it can hurt both your grades and your learning. College might be more flexible than high school when it comes to attendance, but some professors still count it heavily—and might even offer bonuses for perfect attendance.

Don’t forget to budget

Whether you’re staying in a dorm or commuting daily, expenses add up—food, transport, supplies. Set a budget per day and per week. Track your spending and be mindful of your financial situation.

And of course, don’t forget to enjoy your college years! This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—make the most of it.