Article by: Maurine Claire F. Kim, Crismhil S. Anselmo, and Frances Qarl M. Tolosa
Photo by: Stacy D. de Guzman
Graphics by: Crismhil S. Anselmo
Come August, red and golden buntings and banners adorn the campuses of Mapúa University (MU) to welcome new Cardinals to the nest. For the next years, MU will become the second home of many of these hopefuls before they take their eventual flight into the outside world.
But it takes more than grit and dedication to fly in the glorious halls of this world-class institution. Without the right notes, one might fall flat in pursuit of their dreams. Fret not Froshies! As you begin your time in MU, The New Builder compiled some tips and advice from your upperclassmen to help you find the right rhythm as you navigate the years ahead.
1. Manage your time
The metronome ticks twice as fast in MU — time is the ultimate opponent for every Cardinal. Days go by in faster tempos, weeks fleeting in the blink of an eye. As Mapúans, it’s a cardinal rule to learn how to balance time. Although easier said than done, laying out your priorities helps weigh what comes first. Whether it’s your notes app, a sticky note, a Google calendar, an Excel sheet, or a Notion page, keeping track of what needs to be finished is the answer to reckon your momentum.
It may be difficult to jive into the cadence of the university (been there, done that!), but establishing healthy routines makes handling your schedule smooth sailing. As you find the right accompaniments, remember that it is also reasonable to take a walk in the college marathon.
2. You’re in for a challenge
MU is considered to be one of the best universities in the country, but the grunt of maintaining this standard may take a toll on the unprepared student. But to shine bright like a diamond, you will have to withstand intense pressure.
Everyone is doing their best. Thus, standards and quality will be higher as you continue your pursuits during your stay at MU. While you may find it a humbling experience, it is best to view this as a challenge to continue to better yourself because, after all, we are all always striving for improvement.
3. Stick with the right circle
Billie Eilish knew what she was singing about when she sang “Birds of a feather, we should stick together.” In the challenging environment of MU, finding fellow Cardinals in the same situation as you will help you pull through in the difficult journey ahead.
From exchanging notes from class, asking for advice on your academics (or even other stuff), conducting study group sessions, or simply unwinding from a stressful day, the right people will have your back through thick and thin. Surrounding yourself with a group that knows their priorities will significantly help you brave your college years.
4. Find your niche
Your education should always be one of your top priorities. But your life shouldn’t revolve around it or else you might come close to the brink of insanity. Believe us, we’ve been there. During your time at MU, make sure you also find time for your hobbies. Whether it be gaming, the arts, sports, or any other fun activity, feel free to indulge yourself when the workload is light to give your mind ample time to unwind before it takes on any more schoolwork. Your time in MU will serve as your grassroots in finding that right work-life balance.
5. Be prepared for any weather
Entering a higher level of education comes with higher expectations. Aside from your studies, you will also take on the dichotomous tunes of Philippine weather: Pantropiko or Raining in Manila (there is no in-between).
In the absence of class suspensions, facing extreme heat or braving torrential downpours is a dreaded challenge for all Mapúans. In such an event, be sure to dress appropriately and bring your weather shields — from fans to umbrellas — so you can face whatever weather comes your way.
6. Don’t block the hallways
Life in MU is fast-paced and many of your seniors — and you, yourselves soon enough — are always in a rush. Whether late for classes, in desperate need of a restroom break, or simply in a rut from academic stress, blocked paths and hallways do not do anyone any favors.
Avoid standing in the middle of the hallways. If you need to convene with your peers, there are plenty of collaborative spaces and seats available on campus such as the designated study areas, the library, and the canteen.
P.S.: If you are on the verge of a no. 2 on campus, hallway rumors say that the best restrooms are in the North Building.
7. Dress to Impress
Having no uniforms gives students the liberty to show their true colors. From varying hues of hair to an array of fashions, Mapúans have the option to build an impressive wardrobe that will leave their peers in awe.
This flexibility allows Mapúans to slay or simply put a quick drip with the shorts and Crocs combination that is the typical getup during exam season. No matter the workload, the Cardinals can slay the day if they choose to. Facing college headfirst fearlessly be it in sweatpants or your best dress, it is crucial to style yourself freely and with authenticity. Trust us when we say comfort is key!
8. Don’t forget your ID
Wearing your ID within the university premises is a must for Mapúans. The dedicated and eagle-eyed Security Guards of the University are always on the lookout for rulebreakers. Plus, having limited entrance gates to the university means no chance to avoid repercussions, so don’t think you can get away with sneaking in.
Fear not though, if you do happen to have the misfortune of forgetting your ID, all you have to do is to drop by the Security Office to log your name. Don’t be too complacent, as you are only given a maximum of three warnings per term before you are required to do a lot of hours of community service on top of your heavy academic load. Best to avoid that hassle altogether and treat your ID like gold.
9. Read the Student Discipline Handbook
Paramore’s Ain’t It Fun says “Ain’t it fun, living in the real world?” and when the university is a pond where you're no longer the biggest fish, handling changes in your environment can (and will) get overwhelming. Breaking into your college persona means having a clean slate — reading the student handbook will aid you in how to stop walking on eggshells on campus. Familiarize yourself with the rules, and you'll fare fairly well in the years to come.
The journey ahead of you is challenging but it’s in your hands to make it worthwhile. While these tips and advice from your seniors have the potential to push you to a better standing, your seniors’ words are not the only handbook to optimizing the road ahead. You are in charge of making the decisions that will catapult you into reaching your dreams. From one Cardinal to another, always remember that we do not wait for the future — we build it. Welcome to Mapúa!
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