Bryan Bahena's Profile

Proud TO BE “Iskolar ng Bayan “

By Ana Janine J. Balois

Who will not be proud of being a scholar? Especially in our country – it has been always a “privilege” to study or go to school. And “lucky” to be a part of a government educational institution. Polytechnic University of the Philippines (P.U.P.) has been there, ever since, to give this “privilege” to thousands of young Filipino people who are “lucky” to pass the PUPCET.
I’ve had an opportunity to interview one of those “lucky” young Filipinos who have, or should I say having the “privilege” our government offers. I was able to ask him some questions and got me really thinking of how favorable things are to be A Proud Iskolar ng Bayan.

PROFILE:
Name: Bryan R. Bahena
Age: 18 years old
Department / Course: COC, Bachelor in Broadcast Communication (3rd Yr.)

P.U.P. his first choice - - - his only choice.
“… PUP was my first choice. I didn’t have any other choices because I took into consideration the socio-economic status of our family—we have an average income. Actually, I had anxieties of where I would study college if ever I fail the PUPCET—I didn’t take any entrance exams except in PUP.”

P.U.P. before --- P.U.P. now.
“I actually heard a lot about PUP. Well, personally, I’ve perceived it as state university where activism and other student movements are very much prevalent. Furthermore, I perceived it as an institution which renders quality education to the optimum.
“My perception hasn’t changed so far. My earlier perceptions and expectations were met—and I’m glad about that.”

Definitely not an ACTIVIST.
“Well, on my own point of view, I could say that student movement and activism are very much alive in the university. I should say that it is the iconic image of the university per se. I feel empathic for what they are fighting for but it stops there. I really find it insensible. Joining such never came into my thoughts—after all, I came to school to study and finish my degree—I want my parents to be proud of me.”

P.U.P. = better Bryan
“I should say that PUP has thought me one non-academic lesson/virtue—independence. It was beneficial on my part for it made me mature on the way I deal with everyday affairs. I could also say it has made me adapt more easily when such pressuring circumstances, especially with studies, suddenly pop out.
“PUP has molded me to become a better individual.”

YES P.U.P! YES COC!!!
“… I never had any regrets. I’m happy with the learning atmosphere in the university for freedom is just but everywhere—in all aspects for that matter.
“The same thing, I’m happy with the college/department. It rendered me everything that was necessary and essential as far as the course program was concerned. Freedom of choice is also practiced in the college. Well, after all, I considered it my second home—I’m happy with the course and the over-all status of the college per se.”

Just really Proud TO BE PUPian
“Well, just like what I said, it’s the quality of education—it is patterned with global competitiveness—the university has produced a lot of excellent graduates in their respective fields of endeavor… that’s that one undeniable thing that I’m really proud of with the university.. “

The statement of Mr. Bahena, I believe, will not keep you skeptical about “being lucky” and “having privilege”. It is cracking to be “lucky” to have the “privilege”, indeed. I’m glad, like Mr. Bahena, I AM.