By Danielle Bonior
The university halls buzz with conversations about exams, weekend plans, and the latest coffee spot. Yet, amid the usual student chatter, others carry more than just books in their bags—they carry responsibilities, those which extend beyond the classroom.
For Bethany Via E. Macaso, Von M. Dagpin, and Rom Andre O. Villahermosa, thoughts of “college” hold more than academic significance. For them, college rises as a tightrope between deadlines and duties—a balancing act between lectures and late shifts. Their story isn’t just about passing exams; it’s about “making ends meet,” carving their own path, and proving that ambition doesn’t wait for graduation.
Bethany, a second-year Early Childhood Education major, had her reasons for stepping into the world of student assistants early on. “I wanted to help pay for my school expenses and lessen my parents’ burden,” she shared. From day one, she embraced the role, finding herself at the Guidance Center in Oriental Hall, where she organizes meetings, hands out materials, and assists students who walk through its doors.
For Von, a third-year BA Anthropology major, the decision came differently. It wasn’t a necessity at first—it was curiosity. “I felt unaccomplished having spent a day doing nothing,” she admitted. That’s when she discovered an opening at the Anthropology Museum. Four semesters later, she is now welcoming guests, answering calls, and immersing herself in the daily grind of the museum, bringing anthropology to life in ways she never thought of.
Rom, a third-year BA History student, had a different motivation. “It was always my dream to work in a museum,” he said. His journey as a student assistant began in September 2022 when he joined the Silliman Anthropology Museum. Beyond earning extra pocket money, his love for history found a new dimension. “After hearing about the museum through a website, my entire perspective of work changed.”
From Idle to Ideal Time
Time is a currency working students cannot afford to waste. With 16 to 24 work hours a week, Von swears by her calendar. “I plan everything. Assignments, work, rest—it all has to fit,” she explains, detailing how discipline is key to her balancing act.
Bethany, on the other hand, has made sacrifices. “I always choose work over school clubs or committees,” she confesses. With a shifting schedule that keeps her in the office all day, she’s mastered the art of multitasking. “Lunch breaks are for finishing assignments. There’s no room for procrastination.”
Rom, balancing a 10-hour workweek as a tour guide, follows a structured approach. His days are filled with guiding guests, manning the front desk, and sometimes supervising new assistants. “During peak days, I tour up to 50 students,” he said, finding fulfillment in sharing Philippine history and culture.
Beating Challenges with Confidence
Earning extra income is one thing, but their jobs offer lessons no textbook can teach. Bethany recalls how she used to be afraid of talking to people. “Being at the Guidance Center forced me out of my shell,” she said. From shy to self-assured, she credits her job for sharpening her confidence and sense of responsibility.
Von, on the other hand, loves the human interactions her job provides. “I get to see the world within the confines of my school,” she said. Observing people from different walks of life has made her appreciate anthropology more, making the subject more than just theories and lectures.
For Rom, the best part is the recognition he gets. “Aside from tips from guests, I’ve built a small reputation in the tourism industry,” he said. A highlight of his experience was when a tourism manager he once guided recognized him during a UN Gastronomy Tourism event in Cebu. “It felt rewarding to know that my skills had reached beyond Silliman.”
Interweaving Campus and Career
Their roles do more than fill the gaps in their tuition fees—they fill the gaps for which experience and expertise take its place, shaping their futures.
Von sees her museum work as a stepping stone into the world of anthropology. “It’s hands-on experience,” she said. “I see how culture, history, and people intersect beyond the pages of my books.”
For Bethany, her job confirms her calling as a teacher. “I’ve learned patience, communication, and adaptability–things I know will make me a better teacher,” she said. Every interaction, every responsibility, is a glimpse into the career she’s building.
Rom believes that his experience has helped him develop essential skills. “I’ve gained confidence in public speaking and making reports—skills that are invaluable for both my academics and future career,” he explained. He added that these skills proved to be helpful, particularly in his prior work engagement in a law office.
Building from Borrowed Time
To students who are thinking of juggling work and studies, Von advises: “Look at your situation first. Time, location, commitment – if it’s manageable, go for it. But remember, it’s not always easy. Treat challenges as lessons.”
Bethany, the eternal optimist, believes in taking the leap. “You are the architect of your own future. It’s okay to be scared but believe in yourself. You deserve all the good things in life.”
Rom, drawing from his own experience, tells students to change their mindset, “Expect to earn more knowledge than money. The best investment I’ve made the past few years is in the experiences and lessons I’ve learned.”
From Deadlines to Dreams
As the buzz of campus life fades, Bethany, Von, and Rom continue to navigate a world where time is their most valuable asset.
They are not just students, they are architects of their own future, piecing together their ambitions one shift and one lesson learned at a time.
As they step into their roles with uncertainty and determination, they move forward, proving that the weight of responsibility doesn’t hold them back. Rather, responsibilities serve to propel them towards the futures they are building, one shift, one lesson, and one dream at a time.
Now, the building blocks are ready and the pieces are set—but for today, dreams remain our sole currency. As the hum of change is drawing ever-near—the question is, would you, too, rise to the challenge?
