One of the greatest opportunities while studying in the University of the Philippines is having the opportunity to have a second family for life – ‘Orgs’. These are the student organizations whom share a common goal, course, interest or any other thing. They are our affiliations in UP. This is where we find strength to face problems and know that we are not alone to face it. This is where a student enjoys other students’ company and do amazing things together. But the problem UP students face regarding organizations is this – “Am I ready to be part of an org?”
I remember my 1st time joining an org and it was actually unexpected. I really did not plan to be part of it at all but peer pressure and high expectations made me say yes. Eventually, I learned to enjoy it and I am now surrounded by amazing people. But for many, spontaneous decisions really end up to being bad decisions since they are not well thought of and considered. So the simple answer to the question is to evaluate yourself; discover who you are, who you want to be, and who you want yourself surrounded with. On that note, here are my tips in doing so.
First, orgs require so much effort. They take up your time and sometimes hoard all your time. They need you to sign papers, reserve places, hold events, and create IGPs and many more. You must consider your willingness to sacrifice some of your time for your org. Assess yourself and ask these questions ‘Are you ready sacrificing academic time for org time? Are you ready for this tremendous commitment?’
Second, org goals and visions are there so people could know why they are created for the first place. Read it with all consciousness! People in a certain org share a common characteristic or interest. They could be volleyball lovers, art enthusiasts, political science majors, marketing associates, debaters, anime fanatics and many more. You need to identify your interests and align them with the org that shares that common interest. If you don’t, you may end up with the wrong set of people.
Lastly, a problem faced by students joining orgs is whether they could handle activities the org requires them to do and whether it upholds their beliefs. For me, you should be open to certain ideas an org presents; however, you must learn to delineate and say no if you think it goes against your principles. You should always find the reason why an org requires such action and link it back to their purpose. If you find the proper reasoning to do it, go ahead. If there is none, then don’t.
Deciding to join an org really is a complicated decision. You need to really evaluate yourself in the area of time management, common interest and belief. And I assure you, it is not a simple task. As long as you follow my tips to know more of your personal capabilities and interests, then I believe you can now answer the question: “ In or Not Yet?”
By: Benedict Guinto
(Process Analysis)
Sources (Photos):
http://web.uplug.orghttp://thepinoyweekly.com (http://thepinoyweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/UP-babaylan-transgender.jpg)
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