Hooray! After the long wait, face-to-face classes are about to resume this coming school year. Getting used to online school setup due to the pandemic, it’s normal that there would be mixed feelings and moments of adjustment for you. Lalo na sa mga unang araw ng pasukan!

While it’s totally normal to feel some nervous jitters, setting up the right tone on your first day can help set up a positive vibe for the whole school year. Here are some things you can do to help yourself get back into rhythm starting on your first day:

1. Keep your bag organized the day before.

Make sure you have all of your things prepared and organized the night before. This helps you avoid forgetting things should you hurry in the morning. If you have to carry your books and papers, use a separate bag or folder for these. Usually, during the first day of school, you’ll likely accomplish a number of forms and admissions slips. ‘Wag kalimutan magdala ng sariling ballpen at papel!

2. Be early

Try to go to bed at your normal bedtime when there are classes. Do it every night starting about 2 weeks before classes begin so you can get the hang of waking up “early” again. You can also do a practice run a week or so before the first day of school. If you live far from your school, siguraduhing tingnan kung anong mga routes ang pwede mong sakyan papunta para hindi ka maligaw at masayang ang oras. Pwede mo ring subukan mag biyahe ng iba’t ibang oras to see how heavy the potential traffic will be. Tandaan, lamang ang may alam. It’s better to wait and be early for class than run late.

3. Dress to impress

Many public and private schools have dress codes. Make sure to check the clothes you buy fit these requirements. Always refer to the school's website or call the admissions office. Whether you’re wearing a school uniform or not, remember to dress properly. First impressions matter so you’d want to make sure you’re making a good impression on your professors and co-students on the first day. You can never go wrong with a pair of jeans, a plain shirt, and a jacket or blazer.

4. Ready the must-haves: vaccination card, face mask, alcohol

Don’t forget to bring your vaccination card as most establishments, including your school, may require this for entry. Include this in your bag along with your school ID. Don’t underestimate your university’s manong and ate guard when they say “No Vaccination Card, No Entry!” At syempre, face-to-face classes mean more contact with other people and places that might expose you to COVID-19 so always make it a habit to wash your hands and sanitize your surroundings. A rubbing alcohol or sanitizer is your new bestie!

5. Boost your immune system

Keep yourself healthy and active to prevent yourself from getting sick. One way to boost your immune system is by eating food rich in Vitamin C and taking multivitamins. The previous semesters may have given you the privilege to be at home for a while, but it doesn’t mean you can neglect your body. Staying fit helps you mentally and physically prepare for the new school year. There are tons of fitness apps you can download on your phone if you’re not sure what type of exercises can be easily done at home.

6. Consider bringing your own food

While most fast food chains and restaurants have already resumed their normal operations, remember that going to overcrowded places can increase your chances of COVID-19 exposure. Also, you might want to refrain from consuming too much fast food. Remember that you need nutritional meals to fuel your energy throughout the day. Packing your own lunchbox is your best bet for a good meal or a snack at school. Kung hindi ka marunong o magaling magluto, you can always check easy-to-prepare school meals online.

7. Follow school health and safety protocols

The Philippines is already slowly reopening more schools and universities. As a student, you need to be aware of your responsibilities as a member of society, and observe local and school protocols when it comes to COVID-19 safety. Make sure to follow the health guidelines even if others won’t. It’s for your own good!

8. Take it slow and mentally prepare

Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of face-to-face classes? It’s okay. That’s normal! Try to think of all the exciting things you can learn and experience at school. Normal lang naman na kabahan ka sa unang araw ng pasukan. Other students may be feeling the same. Sit by your friends in class if you can. And don’t forget to make new ones, too. You are going to be fine.

9. Enjoy yourself on your first day

First day of school is always a busy day. Nandiyan ang mga class/college orientations, flag ceremonies at iba’t ibang school activities. While there’s a lot coming at you on your first day, your professors won’t usually assign a lot of paperworks right away. Habang maluwag pa ang schedule mo, use the opportunity to relax and get comfortable with your new routine for the school year.

10. Join the Gabay student community

Pagdating sa buhay estudyante, the popular saying also applies: “the more, the merrier!” College is undeniably one of the most exciting seasons of your life. Don’t go through it alone. May Gabay para sa’yo! Gabay, powered by Bukas, is an online platform created to help guide incoming and current college students. Think student, career path discovery, and exclusive events. Ano pang hinihintay mo? Join the Gabay student community today!

Ready ka na ba for the next school year? Or do you need help figuring out your new learning setup? Whatever it is, kasama mo ang Bukas! Whether it’s the first or the last day of classes, we hope you maximize your learning experience. Believe us when we say four (or five) years in college will go by really fast. Let today prepare you for the future you want tomorrow.

Learn more about Bukas and how we make education affordable for thousands of Filipino students like you. Apply for a Bukas student loan in your upcoming enrollment, and join our growing community for more tips and advice about all things student life. A brighter future awaits. Sa'yo ang Bukas!

Written by: Karl Nucum