As a new year unfolds, Tamaraws are embracing it with fresh resolutions focused on academic success and personal growth. It is a time for reflection—revisiting lessons learned while laughing at the quirky ways they aim to better themselves. Students of Far Eastern University (FEU) shared their goals, ranging from lighthearted and humorous to deeply relatable, as they set their sights on new ambitions and bid farewell to old habits.

Before sharing their resolutions, students looked back at the highs and lows of the previous year. 

For many, 2024 was a year filled with challenges that tested their patience but also moments that made it all worthwhile.  

In an interview with FEU Advocate, Angeline Chynna Arguelles, a third-year International Studies student, shared that last year was a mix of sleepless nights and small victories. Between juggling heavy readings and countless oral recitations, she found herself leaning on those closest to her to make it through.  

“The highlight of this semester was the whirlwind of heavy reading assignments, oral recitations, and reportings. It tested my patience, but I pushed through with the support of my friends,” she recalled.  

Similarly, Eizle Mari San Juan, a second-year Medical Technology student, described 2024 as a year of hands-on learning and growth. The practical exams in her major course brought not only excitement but also moments of nervous laughter as she and her classmates learned new skills together.  

"Maybe the practical exams we did for one of our majors, where we had to perform venipunctures and actually collect blood from our blockmates—it was both exciting and challenging,” she shared.  

For fourth-year Psychology student Jean Coleen Noblejas, last year was memorable for a simple reason. After months of stress, the feeling of reaching the semester's finish line brought her a sense of relief.  

“Honestly, the highlight was that it ended. But more seriously, I got to spend more time with my friends. That made all the stress worthwhile,” she said.

With 2024 behind them, Tamaraws are turning their sights to new beginnings. From chasing ambitious goals to breaking bad habits, they are ready to make 2025 their year of transformation.  

For Arguelles, this year is all about protecting her peace amidst the chaos of college life. She credits her organization not only as a support system but as a source of strength and purpose, helping her navigate challenges with resilience and balance. 

“My number one resolution is to protect my peace and safe space. College can be overwhelming, but my friends and the YWCA [Young Women’s Christian Association] have been a strong support system for me. They make my journey more bearable and fulfilling,” she shared.  

San Juan, on the other hand, is focused on finding balance. With a schedule packed with classes and extracurriculars, she knows that planning ahead is the key to staying on track.  

“I want to balance academics, organizational work, and personal life without burning out. I’m hoping to stay on top of deadlines without sacrificing rest,” she explained.  

For Noblejas, the solution to her daily struggles is surprisingly simple: waking up earlier. She discovered that even small adjustments to her routine can significantly influence the course of her day.

“I want to wake up earlier. Waking up late messes with my energy throughout the day. I feel groggy, and it’s just not a good vibe,” the Psychology student admitted.  

Of course, not all resolutions are serious. Some Tamaraws are approaching the new year with a mix of ambition and fun.  

Lance Gabriel Ata, a first-year Nursing student, is dreaming big for 2025. With a passion for public speaking, he set his sights on hosting one of FEU’s most anticipated events of the year: One Concierto Piyu.  

“I want to be a host for this year’s FEU Concierto. It’s my dream, literally, to be heard and guide the program,” he shared.  

But aside from his love for the stage, Ata is also working on his habits as a student. He is determined to leave behind his cramming tendencies and take his studies more seriously.  

“I also want to stop cramming. I know it’s bad for my time management, and I want to take my academic life more seriously,” he admitted.  

On a lighter note, Accountancy junior Faye Domingo shared a resolution many can relate to—avoiding trouble in the library.  

“[Hindi] mag-ingay sa library. ‘Wag na masita [this] 2025! Sorry na po, nag-aaral naman talaga ako kaso nakakatawa kasi kami ng jowa ko (To not make noise in the library. Don’t be reprimanded this 2025! Sorry, I’m really studying, but my partner and I just end up laughing),” she joked.  

Beyond setting goals, Tamaraws are also taking the opportunity to leave behind the tendencies that hold them back. For Arguelles, this means letting go of unnecessary pressure and learning to prioritize her health.  

“I plan to avoid pressuring myself too much, especially when it affects my health. Last year, I learned the hard way that pushing too hard can take a toll physically and mentally,” she said.  

San Juan shared a similar resolve, emphasizing her commitment to breaking the cycle of procrastination. Acknowledging the added stress that comes with leaving tasks until the last minute, she is determined to approach her responsibilities more proactively.

“I’ve noticed that leaving tasks until the last minute makes everything more stressful, so this year, I’m going to try to stay on top of things and avoid cramming,” the medical technology student admitted.  

For Noblejas, this year is all about savoring the moments she has left at FEU. As a graduating student, she is determined to make the most of her time on campus.  

“I used to rush out of campus as soon as my last class ended, but now that it’s my final year, I want to appreciate campus life more. I want to spend more time with my friends and enjoy the little moments,” she shared.  

Arguelles believes that setting realistic goals is the key to staying motivated without overwhelming oneself. After all, resolutions are meant to inspire change—not cause burnout.  

“Resolutions can motivate you because they give you direction. But it’s important to set realistic goals so you don’t burn out,” she said.  

Domingo, on the other hand, takes a more lighthearted view. For her, the new year is not about getting everything right on the first try. Instead, it is about having the courage to start over whenever you need to.  

“Remember that January 1 isn’t the only day to begin again. You can have as many ‘Day Ones’ as you want!” she said.  

As the new year begins, many are taking the opportunity to reflect on their past experiences and set intentions for growth in the coming months. While challenges are inevitable, the act of planning and committing to change helps provide a sense of direction and purpose.  

Looking forward, resolutions serve as a reminder that personal growth is an ongoing journey. The willingness to adapt to new circumstances, learn from past mistakes, and embrace new opportunities keeps the momentum going. Whether it is improving time management, prioritizing health, or savoring life’s simple joys, the new year brings an opportunity for fresh starts and meaningful transformation. By setting realistic expectations and giving themselves the grace to reset when needed, many are determined to make 2025 a year of positive change, growth, and fulfillment. 

- Franzine Aaliyah B. Hicana
(Illustration by Darlyn Antoinette Baybayon/FEU Advocate)