27/07/2025
As we entered college, each of our minds were set on different personal goals, and making friends with 8 random, amazing classmates was probably the last thing we expected. Yet somehow, amidst our different personalities and the shyness that marked our first days, we slowly found comfort in each other’s company. Somewhere between awkward hellos, shared struggles, and bursts of laughter, we built a bond that became one of the best surprises college gave us.
Each of us brought something different to the circle, and maybe that’s why we clicked so well. Janah, the mother of the group, was the one who randomly “adopted” some of us on the first day of class, unknowingly starting the friendship that would turn into the highlight of our college life. She’s the ultimate planner—whether it’s a laag or a last-minute group project rescue, she’s always got us covered. Avi, our greatest manifester, has this magical way of making us believe that things will work out, and her constant hype and support always made us feel seen, capable, and unstoppable. Ana, the calm and collected one, often became the target of our teasing for being nonchalant and salto, but that’s exactly what we love about her—she’s the quiet, unshakable presence we can always rely on. Aina, our smart and dancing red queen, is the perfect mix of brilliance and “trouble” — the kind of influence that’s both good and slightly dangerous, but always fun. Yvonne, our fiery maknae, may be small but mighty, leading every inom plan but ironically skips the drinking for some random reasons (a true legend in her own way). Kharkhar, our unstoppable learner, she’s the one constantly studying and unintentionally guilt-tripping us into opening our notes, plus, she’s the Ilonggo speaker queen with a voice that could steal the spotlight. Lowi, the ever-busy treasurer, made every laag possible thanks to his unescapable savings system (we’re convinced he was born to handle everyone’s finances), and he remains the always kauyabon who still hasn’t found his the one (nahuman nalang ang college life). Ejun, our social butterfly, sprinkles joy and confusion with his random phrases—both in chat and in person—nga usahay siya ra makasabot haha, which leaves us confused but laughing. And finally, Kat—the pinakabuotan in the group (a rare gem in our pack of chaos-makers haha).
What started as random seatmates and awkward classmates grew into a little family we never knew we needed. College would have been heavier, lonelier, and far less colorful without the laughter, late-night chats, spontaneous and planned laags, and even the quiet moments we shared. We started with simple moments—walking around campus just to explore it, spending countless hours studying together in the library and drawing room, and taking those tiring trips to the market for lunch that somehow became part of our routine. More than just a source of joy, this friendship became a key part of achieving good grades and chasing deadlines—whether it was sharing notes, encouraging each other to keep going, or simply being there when the stress felt overwhelming. We’ve celebrated victories, lifted each other through failures, and created memories we’ll carry with us for a lifetime. They say college is about building your future, but for us, it also gave us a bond that feels like home.
We may have entered college as strangers with our own goals, but we’re leaving with both achievements we worked hard for and something even more meaningful—a friendship that made every challenge lighter and every success sweeter. Through laughter, late-night cramming, shared struggles, and moments of pure chaos, we became more than just classmates; we became a family. This friendship is one of the greatest gifts college has given us, and no matter where life takes us next, these memories and this connection will always remain.
Photos by ENYE
