Meet Roren

Taking up Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing at the University of the Philippines (UP) while employed is a walk in the park – Jurassic Park.

I was a full-time government employee and a full-time student taking maximum allowed units of coursework per semester. I had to juggle work and school because UP will not accept excuses or give exemptions just because one is a working student. Everyone received the same treatment, regardless of status. So, I needed to attend classes, comply with the requirements, and take the exams on the same schedule as everyone else. I was not in competition with my fellow students but with myself. I struggled a lot in balancing some aspects of my life since I started my Ph.D., and the least of my concerns was my grades; for this reason, I was never conscious about them (alam ko mahirap sa UP, ayokong umasa, masakit mabigo) (I know it’s hard studying in UP, I don’t want to hope for nothing, and it hurts to fail). But I tried my best, at least to get the marks necessary to stay in the program with the help of my advisers and classmates, who became my sisters by heart. I knew that UP has high standards and will never lower the bar for anyone – the very reason why I wanted to be an Iska. UP professors were never generous with grades; you only get what you deserve; so imagine my tears when I got uno remarks.  It felt special because I worked hard for it. It felt genuine because I didn’t scam my way to get it. 

Ph.D. is the highest academic degree, so it is meant to be challenging. It’s a ride that has many loops and spins, highs and lows. Definitely not for the faint-hearted. On top of that, UP offers more twists and turns for the extra challenge.  Indeed, one must strive to survive. This experience may not be everyone’s idea of a good time or a good amusement park. Some would even say I’m wasting my years; I say it’s worth it.