Republic of the Philippines

CAMARINES SUR POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES

Nabua, Camarines Sur

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

UNDERSTANDING THE SELF

INSIDE OUT: EXPLORING THE FORCES THAT MOLD ME

According to Heraclitus, “You cannot step into the same river twice.” This simply means
that there is nothing permanent in this world except change. The ever-changing nature of the
universe and the idea that change is the only constant thing introduce different perspectives in
life. Various forces, such as challenges and experiences, contribute to change. As we delve deeper
into self-introspection, we can conclude that changes around us can greatly affect how we see
the world.

As Althea embarked on this transformative journey—her college life—she was introduced

to various challenges, such as hectic schedule and dealing with nerve-racking instructors. These
challenges would probably have made her Senior High School self cry her heart out. She grew up
with people around her thinking that she was this "over-achiever" girl from a middle-class family.
She was always told to do her best, ace her exams, and strive for excellence. As society perceived
her to be someone she was not, there were always people behind her who brought her back to
her senses—her family and friends. They were the ones who reminded her that she was still
human, still young, and not supposed to have her whole life figured out yet. Reflecting on her
journey, she sincerely acknowledges that the presence of social pressures has played a significant
role in enabling her to attain notable achievements, including the privilege of being recognized
as one of the top four recipients of the highest honor awards at Palsong National High School.
Stryker (1980) discussed that there is a reciprocal relationship between the self and society: the
self influences society through the actions of individuals, and, on the other hand, society
influences the self through its shared language and meanings. As mentioned, change is inevitable.
If Althea's SHS self saw social pressures as a negative part of her life, her college self now views
them as fuel that ignited her burning passion. Although she still experiences social pressures, she
no longer considers them as negativity but as an inspiration to do better and be better for herself.

It is said that postmodern people have become insatiable and may never be satisfied in
life, a notion with which she agrees. In this contemporary world, if you choose to give up and
become a victim of negativity, pressures, and changes around you, you lose. According to Harvey
Fierstein, “Accept no one’s definition of your life; define yourself.” The most important thing in
life is to be yourself, to be the best version of yourself—acknowledge changes and explore the
forces that mold you as a person.

Prepared by: ALTHEA S. TORNO

Program & Block: BS Electrical Engineering 2C