My UPLB memoirs Part 1: Freshman

The world I thought I knew!

At a glimpse on my first day as a freshman way back June 2001, I was a province-boy who simply wants a catch of a city life and a city girl. But it was a shoking thing to have been enrolled at UPLB where it looks more “province” than the place where I came from. People are merely citynized. The way they speak, act or even the way they dressed during class times. I remember one time I got a classmate who wore sexy blouse and make up and all that, later it was anther shocking reelation that he was a cross dresser that she was a he.

My primary adjustment was how to live in a dormitory. We were assigned a new dormitory with the name New Dorm. But it was not new after all; we were the first to occupy the 5-year old building. Imagine a dorm full of freshmen from all walks of life and sort of personalities, from the jologs, nerds, cool guys and gals, super friendly “vote-for-me” people who knows each dorm mates by name. I got to try to learn how to wash my clothes, clean my room, budget my money, budget my study time and I was not successful in everything but I succeed in trying. I tried not to flank an exam, tried to attend all my subjects but I also failed. However, I tried to enjoy my military science or ROTC, and I got a 1 flat. It was a destiny I took for myself.

A side story to that, ROTC made me to a man I am now. I sound like I really got plenty of fun and excitement during the formation. Well you can say that. I developed a certain fulfillment and thrill during times when a moment would require you to gain composure and integrity under pressure. I really got to be the best when I am pressured especially when critical thinking and be wise counts the most. I am superb at both. I met a lot of people that somehow I abused figuratively with lots of punishment when they got lots of demerits by coming in late or with unshaven boots, buckle, and face. But I was just and considerate most of the time. I camaraderie and brotherhood I abhorred towards my co-officers and friendships on duty prevails. I could never forget sunny days during drill days of my college years. To be continued…