A working student’s reason to move from Laguna to Manila
As an aspiring journalist who grew up in the countryside, I dreamt of going out in the world to explore more things that could cultivate my skills. My passion for writing inspired me to move to Manila hoping that there would be more opportunities ahead. From the small town of Pangil, Laguna, I packed my bags and my dedication to start my college life at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.
A working student’s reason to move from Laguna to Manila
Contentment is okay. But for me, it is not acceptable to settle for less. I know what career I am going to pursue. However, I wasn’t sure if I’m good enough to reach it. I firmly believe that I will not grow if I stay in my comfort zone. I had to go out there and reach my goal. Moving to Manila is one way to do so.
Being a working student
The only wealth that our family has is hope. Because of that, I had to support my own studies financially. I waited tables at a fast food chain for the first two years of my college life. I get to pay for my rent and food with what I earn. However, I also realize how exhausting life can be every time I feel like the minimum wage and how tired I get is inequitable.
My struggles with being alone
From serving hot meals to ironing my school uniforms, my mother never failed to take care of everything I needed back home. That was one of the biggest adjustments I had to take when I decided to move here alone. It was not just because ironing clothes and cooking are such hard tasks. It was also tough to manage when I only had one hour to prepare for going to work from school. I never realized how emotionally vulnerable I am until I got here. Most nights, I cry myself to sleep just because I miss my mom’s backrubs and hugs. I expected life here would not be easy, but I never thought it would be this hard.
How do I cope up
It took tons of sweat and tears. Gladly, I never lost my dedication. I got used to my new environment. I have formulated a routine to efficiently manage my time. When I wake up in Manila, I start to cook rice that lasts for the whole day. While waiting for it, I wash the clothes I used the day before and iron my school and work uniforms for the day. I then prepare myself and head to school. I use the hour I have before I go to work to take a power nap, so I could still have the energy for the rest of the day.
Although it was rough conquering the fast-paced environment in Manila, I am grateful that it made me a better version of myself. With this transition in my life, I was able to learn how to manage my time and my tasks more efficiently. I still have a lot to learn. But with this progress, I know that I am only a few steps away from the best life I promised myself.
