COLLEGE BOUND
Date Published: April 2003
By: Zia G. Morales

Ready for the big league? Here’s a quick guide to getting into your dream university.

Do you dream of headlining Teatro Tomasino production? Or getting a major scoop for UP’s Philippine Collegian? Turn your college dreams into reality with this primer that will give you all the info you need to take that first step toward the university experience. (And you don’t have to be a high school senior to start this early.)

STEP 1: CHARTING YOUR COURSE

Some people are lucky enough to know what their calling is at an early age. Most people do not, and panic at the pressure that comes with selecting a college course. If you fall into the latter category, relax! College is all about self-discovery so expect several changes in your list of future plans during that four-year span.

Unfortunately, college begins with an application process—and all application forms require you to select a specific course for enrollment. If you’re having trouble at this point, a talk with your guidance counselor or homeroom supervisor might help to clear your head. Your teachers can also giver you pressure-free advice. On your own, try to figure out what your skills and interests are. Do you enjoy learning about the inner-workings of the mind? Then a course in psychology might be for you. Do you have a special talent in selling stuff? Then think about Marketing. Base your decision partly on what you’d love to learn about—school is, after all, a place to learn.

Remember, you can always shift to another course after your first year. Also, contrary to popular belief, the course you take in college does not necessarily seal your future career fate. Think of it as the first step of many, toward a lifelong, ever-changing adventure.

STEP 2: CHOOSING YOUR SCHOOL

Are you the biggest Blue Eagles fan on the face of the planet? The prospect of running into Rich Alvarez on campus might sound exciting, but that should not be the basis for selecting the university of your future. There are several schools in and around Manila, not to mention the provinces. Carefully consider what each school offers in terms of curriculum, extracurricular activities and facilities. Tuition fees, location and academic reputation are also important factors in your decision. Ateneo de Manila, De La Salle University, University of the Philippines and University of Sto. Tomas are generally considered to be the best schools in the Philippines. If this matters to you, then you should aim for these schools. (Refer to “Schools At A Glance”)

Pick a university that is the best fit for your needs and wants. Are you a potential varsity sports superstar? Then pick a school that has a strong athletic program. If you’re interested in becoming a journalist, pick a school that offers a competitive journalism program. If you want to be a computer professional, then consider applying to one of the computer colleges. You should apply to at least three schools to guarantee that you get into at least one university of your choice.

STEP 3: APPLY YOURSELF

The application process for each school varies. Once you’ve narrowed down the list of schools you’re interested in, contact their respective Admissions departments for the necessary requirements. There are some constants—all schools will require you to submit your high school grades (yes, they count!), completed application forms, application fees and photos. You will also have to take (and pass!) an entrance exam, to gain entry into the school of your choice.

• To apply to Ateneo, you will have to submit an application form, a letter of recommendation from your high school guidance counselor, a P500 application and testing fee, and sigh up for the ACET (Ateneo College Entrance Test). Application forms are usually released in June, and requirements are due around August. Two days in September are reserved for the ACET. Check their website or call the registrar at (2) 426 6001 for more details.
   

• De La Salle University will require you to submit your high school grades, two recommendation letters from your principal and class advisor, three 2x2 photos, a copy of your birth certificate, a P500 admission processing fee, and an essay on your potential contribution to the DLSU academic community. Application forms can be downloaded from their website at <www.dlsu.edu.ph>. Further inquiries may be directed to (2) 523 4230.

The application process to the University of the Philippines (phone, 920 5301) is a little more complicated. On your application, you’ll be required to choose two campuses from the nine that are scattered around the country.