If someone were to ask me what it's like to be a nursing student of University of Santo Tomas, I would describe it in 4 words.
Here it goes...
Nursing wasn't on my mind when I was a child. You see, I've always wanted to be a doctor and the thought of choosing a pre-medicine program didn't occur to me. I didn't even bother on deciding what to choose. My aunt told me that if I really want to be a doctor, choose the program that is known for being the best pre-med: NURSING.
Fortunately, I got in. And fortunately, I got in a university where BS Nursing is known to be a center of excellence...University of Santo Tomas. My parents and relatives were all so proud of me. They expect a lot from me as I was the only one in the family to go to UST for BS Nursing. That's why that expectation is converted to (1) pressure.
Yes, my four years in UST-CoN was filled with pressure, especially on the first year. There was a cut-off and only those with a grade of 2.0 (or better) will be able to enroll for the summer class. And no doubt about it, that year was my darkest year. I was always crying. depressed, and most of the time, I find myself losing hope. But that's the thing about us UST students...
We became closer to God through the process. We became (2) spiritual. That time in my life, I prayed harder and although my faith faltered for awhile, it came back strong. I believed in God's loving mercy and I remembered my dream in becoming a doctor.
I remember our retreat. It was another way for us to be closer to nature and closer to God. In my stay in Calaruega, I got in touch with myself and I got reminded me what I was doing in the first place. Why I'm here today and who am I working hard for? And through this retreat experience, I got closer to my block mates.
That's another thing about Nursing. It is (3) fun. It's not just because of the classmates I have that are makukulit. It's not only about the endless laughter and bonding moments with my own circle of friends. It's not just about the activities our council has to offer. No, it's also about the things we learn in this college. Although it is (4) hard, it's bearable because we're all having fun. And when you're having fun, it will be easy sooner or later.
There are only four words to describe my four years in Nursing, and that's all it took for me to summarize my answer if someone were to ask me what it's like to be a nursing student in UST.
From here (1st Year)
(2nd Year)
(3rd Year)
To here (4th Year)
