The Silent Burden of Irregular Students: A Deeper Look at Academic Struggles
"Life is not a race," a line from the song Karera by BINI, serves as a comforting mantra for many students striving to graduate on time. However, for irregular students, this message prompts a profound question: Is life truly not a race for them, or is this belief merely a soothing response to unrealistic societal expectations? Irregular students, who deviate from standard academic tracks due to failed courses, shifted programs, work commitments, or other obstacles, often navigate a tumultuous journey filled with ups and downs as they pursue their education.
Personal Stories of Struggle and Resilience
Princess Dolly Cuyno, a first-year medical technology student at Velez College, shared her experience: "I became irregular because I was unable to balance my major and minor subjects." She highlighted the long commute between school and home, which left her fatigued and with insufficient study time. Similarly, Junalle Maghanoy, a first-year political science student from the University of the Visayas, expressed surprise at her situation: "Being an irregular student was never on my bingo card when I started college." She detailed struggles with academic pressure, peer pressure, and the silent burden of irregularity, adding, "I may still have a long way to go, but I am no longer where I used to be."
The Weight of Academic and Societal Pressures
One of the heaviest burdens irregular students face is academic pressure. They grapple with complex class schedules and the constant fear of falling behind. At the start of each semester, questions plague their minds: Will the subject be available? Will it conflict with another class? These emotional battles foster a quiet anxiety that regular students may not comprehend.
Additionally, societal stereotypes compound their struggles. Irregular students often face judgment for not aligning with common expectations. People question why they remain at a certain year level despite their age, why they are not progressing with former classmates, or why they shifted courses after losing motivation. This unfair labeling overlooks the genuine effort they invest in continuing their education, deepening their emotional turmoil.
Beyond Stereotypes: The Reality of Circumstances
While some might label irregular students as careless, lazy, or academically weak, the reality is often different. Many become irregular not by choice but due to circumstances beyond their control, such as:
- Financial struggles requiring them to work while studying
- Family responsibilities that demand attention
- Health concerns impacting their academic performance
- The need to balance multiple life priorities
What others perceive as a delay is frequently a testament to resilience and sacrifice, highlighting their determination to persevere despite challenges.
Developing Adaptability and Bravery
Despite these burdens, irregular students cultivate valuable traits. They gain adaptability by interacting with diverse classrooms, classmates, and teachers, and they demonstrate bravery by stepping outside their comfort zones. Through their journey, they learn to manage time effectively and rebuild themselves after setbacks. Although their path may be longer and more complicated, it often shapes stronger determination and perseverance, equipping them with skills for future challenges.
Life is indeed not a race. What truly matters is not the straightness of the road but the courage to keep walking it. Irregular students are not behind; they are simply navigating a different route toward the same dreams. Sometimes, the longer road builds the strongest travelers, as exemplified by their unwavering spirit.
Aryan Orat / University of the Visayas
