Living a Doubled Life

Take a look and read into the perspective of a double major student, Pamela.

Decision

Being an 18-year-old means I can make sound decisions, and so I did by filling in the

enrollment form that will change my future. I couldn’t finish it on the day because I was having a hard time thinking if I was doing the right thing. Happy to know that I was given the freedom to choose whatever course that I want, but at the same time it burdens my soul because I would prefer to know someone’s opinions or suggestions regarding this matter. I know it’s kind of opposite of what I claimed to be but that’s what going through my head at that time. My inner self questioned my skills and capabilities; If am I able to make my parents proud? Can my family afford the requirements? Am I able to make it until the end? And so, after weeks of sleepless nights and anxiety, the day has come to enroll myself into a degree that I think is suited for my personality and career plans in the future. I took Liberal Arts and Commerce Major in Communication and Marketing Management.

Two degrees in a span of 5 years. Will I make it until the end?

Doubled

During my first year, I took up minor subjects under the Communication program. In there, I was able to realize my potential and gained new knowledge along the way. It was light and fun, the typical stereotype for college movies I would say. I’ve found new friends that I grew to love, cherish, and appreciate along the way. It was in my second year that gradually change my lifestyle and perspective as I enter classes with new sets of classmates. I’m glad that I have Johanne to struggle with me during these moments.

For me, I have a new pair of shoes to fill in every time I enter an unfamiliar classroom, it made me feel intimated and be absentminded as I try to calibrate my understanding with the different theories being presented and juggle my intuition between arts and logic. Hard would be an understatement being bombarded with 10 subjects per term, and additional headaches and sleepless nights with stubborn members would be a cherry on top. Nevertheless, Johanne and I got through these situations together and stronger than before.

Crossroads

On my second year, I was having a hard time looking for scholarships. Being enrolled in one of the prestigious schools in city is no easy feat. I am aware of my family’s situation and as an eldest I always try to put myself in my parents’ shoes. As much as possible, I try to avoid having promissory notes for my tuition because I know how it feels for them to be looking for money just to pay my fees. At that time, I am a member of a cultural club, and little did I know that they were offering scholarships for their members. I tried my luck and gave my best during the interview; I was hoping for the best as well because it is my only chance to support my education.

Lo and behold, I was able to get in with 100% tuition and miscellaneous fees up to 21 units. It was one of the happiest days in my life because I was able to support my education, gave my parent less things to think of and made them proud. Being financially incapable was my crossroad during this college journey because I was given two choices to choose from; continue college or find a job to support my family.

God’s providence was evident during that time; indeed, he never fails.

Balanced

Study and work balance. Two words that made me who I am today. As a working student, I must work on and complete the tasks that was given to me with precision and efficiency. While others are enjoying their vacant time, me and my friends would usually be a busy bee around the campus tirelessly working for our scholarship.

Outside campus gigs are also vital because it serves as my additional allowance, incur valuable experiences, develop my critical thinking and interpersonal skills. It may not come in stable terms but at least I got to be involved in my future working scene. Even though I have multiple tasks at hand, I still try to manage my time with my academics, I still get to have good grades and be part of the dean’s list every semester

We all have different stories and challenges in life…

Equip yourself with a positive perspective and trust God in the process.

Your Unnie,

Pamela