1st day of New Journey

    August 31 was a significant day for me, as I woke up early once more, ready to return to school. But this time, it wasn't for an undergraduate course. This time, I was returning as a graduate student, and honestly, the day was filled with mixed feelings. Only a few months ago, on June 28, I proudly walked across the stage to receive my Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree. I recall that day vividly, the culmination of years of hard work, late nights, and countless hours in front of my computer. I assumed that chapter of my life was finally over. I had thought, perhaps innocently, that I had escaped the late nights consumed by endless schoolwork, group projects, and exam preparation. Unfortunately, I was mistaken. Here I am, back in the academic world, not to pursue a diploma for career advancement or to outperform others with my education, but to simply experience what others have—the feeling of being escorted by their parents during commencement exercises or recognition ceremonies.

    When I stepped onto campus that day, a sense of discomfort washed over me. The uncertainty of the obstacles I would face concerned me more than the difficult journey ahead. Graduate school is a complete contrast to undergraduate studies. My classmates are all professionals, with unique experiences and expertise to offer. In contrast, I am the only one without a job, navigating this difficult path with no idea of what lies ahead. It's difficult to be in a room full of people who have already carved out their own life paths while I'm still unsure where mine will lead. I can't help but feel like I'm playing catch-up like I'm falling behind in this race called life. The reality of being unemployed while surrounded by professionals is difficult to swallow, and it's difficult not to be affected by it.

    Even during the orientation before classes began, I noticed that the majority of my classmates were professionals. You could see it in the way they carried themselves and spoke with confidence that only comes with years of experience in the workplace. The majority of them had expressions on their faces that conveyed professionalism and pride in their successful careers. Meanwhile, I found myself sitting there, wondering if I was the only one here who was unemployed. "ako ra ba bag-ong graduate dri?" These questions echoed in my mind, and for a brief moment, I felt out of place, as if I did not belong in that room.

    However, as the orientation went on, I began to realize that it’s not just about the career or the age gap that matters in graduate school. What’s important is the opportunity to listen to their experiences and try to put myself in their shoes. It’s about learning from their stories, their successes, and even their failures. It’s about understanding that everyone has their own journey, and mine is just beginning. Sure, I might not have a job right now, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have something valuable to contribute. I have my own unique perspective, shaped by my experiences as a recent graduate, and that’s something I can bring to the table.

    After orientation, we went to one of our subject classes, and it was there that I truly understood the distinction between undergraduate and graduate school. The environment was very different. Some of my classmates worked in academia, some in network administration, and others in administrative roles. It was fascinating to see the range of backgrounds and expertise in the room. It made me realize that graduate school isn’t just about what the professors can teach you; it’s also about what you can learn from your classmates. I found myself thinking, “One day when I have my own job and an issue arises, I could reach out to them for advice.” It’s funny how, even though we’re all studying the same subject, we each have our own areas of expertise, and that’s something we can all learn from.

    As the day passed, I began to feel more at ease about my situation. I realized that being the only unemployed student in the class was nothing to be embarrassed about. Instead, it was an opportunity—a chance to learn from those who had previously walked the path I was about to embark on. I began to appreciate the fact that I was surrounded by professionals because it meant I had access to a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw from. And, while I did not have the same level of experience as my classmates, I was confident that I could contribute in my own unique way.

    Graduate school, as I've learned, is more than just learning more about your field. It is about personal development, about acquiring the skills and mindset required to succeed in whatever path you choose. It's about making connections, learning from others, and realizing that everyone's journey is unique. It's about realizing that it's okay not to have all of the answers, to not know exactly where you're going, as long as you're willing to put in the effort and keep moving forward.

    Looking back on that first day, I realize how much I've grown in such a short period. I've learned to value the experiences that my classmates bring to the table, and I've learned to recognize my own worth, even if I'm not yet where I want to be professionally. I've learned that it's normal to feel uncertain and out of place because it's all part of the process. What matters is that I'm here, trying, and eager to learn and grow.

    As I continue on this journey, I am aware that there will be challenges. There will be moments of doubt when I want to give up. But I also know I am not alone. I have my classmates and professors, but most importantly, I have myself. I am determined to see this through, to seize this opportunity, and to emerge stronger and more confident.

    So, as I move forward, I intend to embrace the uncertainty, discomfort, and challenges that come with being a graduate student. I plan to keep learning, growing, and pushing myself to be the best I can be. And one day, when I walk across that stage again, I'll realize that all of the hard work, late nights, and self-doubt were worthwhile. Because I will have not only a degree but also the confidence and experience to face whatever comes next in my life.