My first year of college began with a mix of excitement and nerves. Walking onto the CSTA campus, I felt small against the massive buildings, but having my friends from senior high by my side changed everything. Being an introvert, I was so grateful I didn’t have to face the crowd alone. We swapped nervous glances and held onto the comfort of our friendship as we stepped into this brand-new world.
My academic journey officially kicked off with a curriculum that pushed me to grow. In the computer lab, Introduction to Computing (COMP1) and Computer Programming 1 (CPRO1) gave me my first real look at the IT world. Beyond tech, I explored Understanding the Self (GE01) and Mathematics in the Modern World (GE04). Balancing these with Environmental Science (GEE01), Religion (GEE03), PATHFit, and NSTP1 was a challenge, but it taught me how to truly manage my life as a student.
Exam week was easily the most stressful part of the semester! I had back-to-back quizzes and lab exams that had my heart racing. However, the late nights weren't so lonely because my friends and I stayed up together, huddled over our notes and trying to memorize lessons until the sun started to peak through. We kept each other motivated when we were tired, and even though the labs were exhausting, we learned how to tackle the pressure as a team.
During the first few weeks, my friends and I turned the campus into our own playground. We eventually discovered "our spot" a quiet tree where we could sit on the bench, relax, and vent about our classes. While I loved the silence of the library and the rows of books, my favorite memories are the walks between buildings with my friends, laughing and planning our next study session. Those moments made the huge campus feel a lot more like home.
Looking back at my first semester, I feel so proud of how far I’ve come. College is definitely different and sometimes overwhelming, but navigating it as a girl student with a solid support system has made all the difference. I’ve realized that while the path to my future is my own, having my friends walking it with me makes the journey so much better.
Stepping into my second year, the subjects became much more specialized. This semester focused on the core of IT with Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Data Communication and Networking (NET1), and Information Management (INFOMAN). I even touched on the business side with Fundamentals of Accounting (ACCTG). It's been a semester of intense learning, bridging the gap between simple code and complex systems.
The academic load for the first semester of my second year really challenged my communication and analytical skills. Subjects like Purposive Communication (GE5) and The Contemporary World (GE3) required a lot of reading and speaking, while Science, Technology and Society (GE7) helped me understand the ethical side of my degree. Even with PATHFit3 (Individual and Dual Sports), this semester feels like a major leap forward in my journey to becoming an IT professional.
This semester has been a whirlwind of innovation. We've been exploring Application Development and Emerging Technologies (APPDEV) and diving deeper into Advance Data Communication and Networking (NET2). It's also been a culturally rich term, as we studied the Life and Works of Rizal (GE11) and Philippine Literature (GE12), giving us a well-rounded perspective alongside our technical training. Balancing Art Appreciation (GE6) and Social and Professional Issues (SOCPROF) has really prepared me for the professional world.
The absolute highlight of the year was the 2026 CSTA Sportsfest. As the Blue Wizards, the BSIT department showed incredible spirit. The volleyball and basketball matches were legendary, especially the battle between BSIT and HM. The energy reached its peak when we were announced as the Overall Champions! Seeing Dean Harold Lucero lift the trophy surrounded by the team is a memory I will cherish forever.