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Jalandoni has the highest GWA in SoTech

Jalandoni has the highest GWA in SoTech

Kaylen Yvon K. Jalandoni will march the stage, waving the banner high as one with the highest GWA at the School of Technology of 1.38636. She will graduate with a degree in BS Chemical Engineering.

UP’s pursuit of excellence is indeed very challenging, especially for one bereft of necessary equipment and sufficient resources. Yet one core value is earned here, such as honor and excellence, which definitely transcends to bring accomplishments.

It was a great but grueling feat for her that she would like to have a brief reprieve and rest a bit before she embarks on preparation for the Chemical Engineering Licensure Examination that would eventually land her in the industry.

Kaylen is one of those who started college at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. “When I first entered the university as an online baby, I didn’t have a firsthand experience of what it’s like to be a UP student on campus. I think everyone will agree that starting college is one of the most significant times—to meet new people, become independent, and learn the greatest lessons as an adult, and doing it all online can feel isolating and draining.” Students must learn remotely because of the pandemic threats. “We were forced to learn in an unconducive environment, study without someone to share our struggles with, submit requirements despite testing positive for COVID, and take exams even after losing a loved one. Some might say that online students had it easy, but everyone had their own battles at home. No amount of good food or a good working space can ever replace the joy of finally attending college physically.”

“Additionally, my decision to pursue a BS in Chemical Engineering did not begin as a 'passionate childhood dream,' nor did it stem from a science fiction amusement involving space and technologies, as we often see in movies and novel plots,” hence there was no concrete understanding of what it is to be in college. But UP has a way of making you accountable to the country. “This realization weighed on me as I slowly understood the significance of being a UP student. Truth be told, I am always amused whenever I hear, 'Iskolar ng Bayan, Lagi’t-lagi Para sa Bayan.’” It has always been ingrained in every student that a UP education is more than for personal gain. The knowledge one will gain here will be largely for the Filipino people. “A UP student cannot just be defined by just black and white, nor can one UP education be defined as rewarding or depressing as it encompasses the in-between colors of camaraderie, volunteerism, and community involvement,” Kaylen said.”

UP was an eventful journey for Kaylen. “Looking back, I can’t imagine how I made it—juggling academics, organizations, Bangs (bar), and Netflix responsibilities. Gladly, I can focus on my Netflix responsibilities now,” she said jokingly. “It would be an understatement to describe my journey to #Sablay2024 with just one adjective, but thanks to all the people who made this journey bearable, especially my on-and off-screen friends, family, and loved ones who have been rooting for me and keeping me sane since day one. Those study sessions turned into chats and rants. These are the memories that I live for and will always hold dear.”

Kaylen has been active in various organizations, such as the Junior Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (JPIChE) and is president of both the JPIChE Panay Chapter and OUnCES. Leading such large organizations has its own struggles and disappointments and takes a toll on one's well-being. Yet “these affiliations enriched my college experience, providing me with personal and professional growth.”

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