The month of August 2022 was a significant time for the Ateneo de Manila University. The school started the month with anticipated news: the recommencement of the Ateneo College Entrance Test (ACET). This development has caused diverse reactions from many—especially for this year’s seniors.
Fear seems to be the common emotion faced by the seniors despite the long-known possibility of taking the ACET. “I feel more anxious than I thought I would. Knowing that there is a good chance that the exams would return is [a] completely different feeling [than knowing] that it is actually coming,” said Erin Co, a HUMSS student. “With the direction that the education system has been taking, and with news of the return of face-to-face classes, it isn’t surprising that what followed soon was news of the return of the college entrance exam,” commented ABM student Darren Ordoñez.
A month later, Grade 12 students are now thoroughly immersed in the application process for Ateneo. Many seniors find themselves in varying stages of the application process—with some progressing faster than others. “I think I am making good time. It was a little bit stressful at the beginning, but after I wrote down everything I needed to accomplish, it became a lot clearer and smoother. As of this week (Sept. 1) I have already finished my essay, so now my focus is on the recommendation letters!” shared Jamie Yap, a fellow ABM student.
With college entrance tests being an undeniably difficult experience, each Zion student faces their own unique fear when it comes to taking the test. “I think the fact that the actual test would resume starting with our batch is the most frightening [part]. Nevertheless, whether we are ready or not, we have to take the test in order to proceed with the application,” said Erin. On the other hand, Jamie and Darren added that they dreaded certain portions of the entrance tests more than others—with math being the one they both had in common.
When it comes to whether or not they wish other universities to resume their own college entrance tests, Darren responded, “I don’t have that much of a preference for either. Whether or not other schools have entrance tests, I don’t believe they will impact me to that great a degree. However, I believe the entrance test is the only way to assess our standings in the educational world on a level playing field with other schools.”
“Honestly, no. But, we shall see!” added Jamie.
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