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When I first hear about Bayan I didn’t know what it was but I realized it was a community that brings Filipinos together as a community.

Before joining Bayan I felt like English was going to be  very challenging. Now, a month in and I have a professor, friends and classmates I am comfortable with that are willing to help.

So far one of the biggest lessons I am learning about college is that using your resources is a big part, if you use them you’re better off passing classes.

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When I first heard about Bayan, I thought it would be a great opportunity to not only make new friends, but to also help with my first year of college and learn a bit more about my Filipino culture.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is to not procrastinate! It brings more stress and headaches to my schedule. I'm already overwhelmed with all of my other classes that I've learned to do my homework as soon as possible so I don't have to worry about it later one.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose amazing because I have made many new friends that I hope to stay friends with for a long time! Not only that but it has helped me a lot with my first couple of weeks of school because everybody is so friendly and wouldn't mind to help someone out if needed. I'm glad I joined Bayan!

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If I had participated in a Bayan-style program in high school,

I definitely would've joined and cherished everyone of my peers like I do now. Connections formed between students beyond bare-boned interests and hobbies is needed for high school students more than every in this day and age. Needless to say, the ages of 15-18 are crucial developmental ages of teenagers that is the deciding factor of many life decisions such as careers or fields of study.

The one word that would describe my experience at Bayan so far is unpredictable (I mean that in a good way). All this time, I have had quite the downtrodden expectation of tight social cliques, relationships locked behind shallow acquaintances, and unspoken barriers that might keep us from forming important bonds during my first year here; I was wrong. So glad to be wrong.

The biggest "A-ha!" moment I have had at Bayan is the power of familiarization when I met everyone at the ice breaker. Once you and a person get to know each others' names, that instance in itself opens you up to so many opportunities to help each other out in school work, make a new study buddy, or build encouragement to do your very best everyday. I live for those moments, and wish they would never end.

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When I first heard about Bayan, I thought it was just a club where I thought it was easy for me to have set classes. I didn't realize how close we would all get such as meeting new people, building relationships, learn valuable and relevant topics, etc.

Before joining Bayan, I wondered if it was just going to be another class where students feel like complete strangers to each other. Now that it's been a month, class participation, partner/ groupwork is highly encouraged which made everyone feel more comfortable with each other.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is to learning how to balance out your time. You need to find a way to balance your schoolwork, work, hobbies, friends, family etc.

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Before joining BAYAN I was concerned that similar to other classes I took in the past that it would either take me a longer time to speak up in class, let alone make friends. But after a month has passed, I feel that I not only did so exceedingly but surpassed my own expectations of myself.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is being able to balance, balance not only time but money as well. I'm finding myself turning in assignments late or simply not doing them in time and losing motivation to complete them. While at the same time, it seems as though I'm eating a lot less then I normally did in the recent past. Hopefully, with time I'll be able to resolve these issues with the help of friends and professors.

If i had to chose one word to chose for my experience in BAYAN so far, it would have to be unexpected. Everyday I'm in class, there's always something new and surprising that comes up, whether it be in the lesson or just things i learn about classmates.

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When I first heard about Bayan, I was excited that there was a learning community dedicated in teaching more about my culture. I didn't realise that it was going to help me grow so much as a person while having fun with everyone. I didn't think that we'd be this close so quickly since students usually don't talk to each other that much in a classroom.

Before joining Bayan, I felt unsure, but determined to make friends and have fun with everyone for the whole semester. Now that's its been a month, I have really made connections with a lot of people more than I ever did in high school. I'm grateful for enrolling in Bayan because without it I would have a hard time looking for amazing people who shared common interests as me.

The biggest surpise I've had in Bayan so far would be how much I am able to communicate with everyone. I'm comfortable speaking my mind to Bayan more than I ever could in high school. I was able to get out from my shell and make friends who liked me for the way I am.

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When I first heard about Bayan, I saw that I would be able to get a reserved spot in a PD 100 class and an English 115 class. That immediately made me want to join regardless of what Bayan was. Little did I know that it was a community dedicated to teaching people more about the Filipino Culture and to help students succeed during their time at Southwestern College.

The biggest surprise I've had in Bayan so far is how close I've gotten to so many people in this community. I definitely did not expect it knowing how nervous I was to meet all the new people that I saw when I went to the Bayan meet and greet, that was held before school started.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is that you actually get a lot more free time. The trade-off is that you end up having a lot more homework than what was found in high school, so it's essential to be able to manage your time and get those assignments done. Another thing that I learned is that it is very important to meet the people in your classrooms, so get to know them and possibly be their friend. It's great to have people who will be able to help you when you need to prepare for a big test or with anything really.

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When I first heard about Bayan I didn't realize that we were going to be so close to each other. That our main goal was to not only be apart of a group, but to create a community where all of us felt welcomed.

Before joining Bayan, I felt like I wasnt gonna fit, since I would like to think Im a very different person compared to everyone outside my friends. Of course I have always been social, and that definatly played a big role in getting to know everyone. Now after month, I am actually able to call this group a group of friends, and I have learned to become comfortable with everyone and I know how to talk to everyone.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is that its half education, and what makes the other half is the people you decide to talk to. Communication and socialization is definatly a factor in life that helps you get far, and thats exactly what Ive been doing!

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Before joining Bayan, I felt anxious  to be in the class. Now that it’s been a month, Im at ease because of the really kind people. Meeting new people can be really challenging for me but joining Bayan made it easier.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I’m learning about college is time is precious and actually using a planner helps a lot. Planning ahead prevents me from feeling too overwhelmed. Another lesson I learned is to find the time for myself when Im stressed.

If I participated in an Bayan style program in high school, I would probably be not as shy to be more involved in school. Being apart of Bayan really pushes me to get out of my comfort zone and to get

to experience things that I never pushed myself to do in high school.

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When I first heard about Bayan, I thought it was just another club but, I didn't realize that it wasn't a club but a learning community. Also, I didn't realize how close everyone would get, especially since the class was so big this year.

Before joining Bayan, I felt that it would just be a normal class and that people would just mind their own business. I was completely wrong and now I see that everyone pretty much gets along and that we are all bringing each other up with academics and even socially.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose "surprising" because everyone in Bayan as surprised me in one way or another. What I mean by that is that everyone was pretty much forced out of their comfort zone and we were able to see how people are when they are forced to mingle with people they are meting for the first time. I just look back at the mixer we first had and to how everyone is now towards each other, it is completely different, but in a good way.

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Before joining Bayan, I felt scared that even in a room where everyone may be similar to me, I still would be unable to fit in. Now that it's been a month, I realize that our differences helps us work better together. It creates a unique classroom culture and it's okay to be different.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is the amount of time and effort you put into something, the better the results will be. I know this is a given, but I haven't seen improvements in the work I develop until now. The time and effort I put into my work really makes a difference in the outcome at the end.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose welcoming. I chose this because despite the unfamiliarity I had with the school, area, and people, in such a short period of time I've never felt so welcomed by a group of people.

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When first I heard about Bayan, I wasn't sure what to expect and thought it was gonna be a class consisting of filipinx. I didn't realize that these people I met on the first day of class would mean so much to me and become my new family for the rest of my life. Also it would open up my mind to a new perspective about a lot of topics.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is that it is a good place to make friends. in the past month, I can finally say that I have made a lot of friends within this program. Also it means I have many people to go to if I need help or need another opinion on my work without being shy.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose exciting because whenever I attend class, it is never boring. We never just have to be in class just to listen to the teacher talk and lecture us or even just write whatever the teacher tells us to. We never have a boring day in class since every class brings smiles, laughter and room to express ourselves.

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When I first heard about Bayan, I figured everyone would be confident about their culture or at least show that they're well informed of it and I'd be the odd one out since I don't know a lot of my Filipinx culture but it almost felt relieving that most of my classmates are in the same boat as me.

Before joining Bayan, I felt like this new environment would be a difficult experience and I would have a hard time getting along with everyone. Now that it's been a month, I'm truly enjoying our little family and I couldn't have asked for a better bunch to suffer in my classes with.

If I had to describe in one word my experience with Bayan so far, I'd choose welcoming since although we all come from different backgrounds, we are inviting of each other's differences and are genuinely understanding of them.

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When I first heard about Bayan I didn’t know to expect. Honestly I didn't realize that I would be how I am now in a family and so happy that I have people that have my back whenever I need help or support. When you’re in college you’re just trying to do your own thing and just hope for the best making it through the years.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is that there are good people out there that want to see you succeed. Being in Bayan I am so grateful and really happy that I decided to take my sisters advice when she said “this is a really good class” because this is actually a really good class.

If I participated in a Bayan style program in high school, I'd definitely learn something very useful that would help me in life. I know in high school you learn things but do they really stick with you till college? Not for me honestly. Being in the program would’ve really helped me out in high school.

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When first I heard about Bayan, I didn't know what to expect since Crystal had said that not many students usually join the community. I didn't realize that there would be so many of us eager to learn more about ourselves, others, and our culture.

Before joining Bayan, I felt pretty anxious to meet people with a shared identity and to actually go around and try to converse with them.  Now that it's been a month, I realized how welcoming and open this group of individuals are and even though we're all mostly aware that we're Filipino, there is still a lot for us to learn.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose the word unpredictable. You just never know what you're going to get with this class and learning community. Ever since the first day, they have never failed to surprise me and teach me something new about myself or the people around me.

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Before I joined Bayan, I felt a bit nervous, reserved and out of place, considering that I had just moved here and I didn't know anyone in the class. Now that it's been a month, I noticed that I've gotten more involved, and have built strong relationships with my peers that I now consider to be family. I'm truly grateful for this community, and I'm really glad that I joined.

One of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college so far is to not be afraid to take risks and achieve your goals for your own satisfaction. Don't be reluctant to step out of your comfort zone and take initiative, because it's either you make things happen, or you wait on uncertainty. At the end of the day you should only strive to please yourself, not other people. This way, self doubt would less likely be an issue when it comes to defining your own success.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, it would be "thought-provoking". This is because our classes have required us to think deeply about certain topics that raise questions and critical awareness about one's own thoughts. We are always being tasked to use our voice and share our own stories, which leads us to believe that we are in a safe environment that is openly accepting of all opinions.

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When I first heard about Bayan it was through my school email, I wasn't too sure what to expect from the class but I just joined because I'm Filipino, I didn't realize that Bayan would allow me to meet all these people and become somewhat close to them.
If I had to describe my experience of Bayan so far with one word, I would choose different. I call it different because on the first day of class, it wasn't no normal class. We were able to meet each other and speak freely about subjects we weren't allowed to in High School. The discussions in this class keep me interested, unlike my my old classes.

One of the biggest lessons Ive learned about being in college is that you got to get connections! Talk to people, to see if you guys have anything in common and maybe you can do something with that. They may have the same major as you and both of you can help each other.

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When I first heard about Bayan, I didn’t really know what to expect or didn't really seemed interested about it  but my friends encouraged me to do it anyways. I didn't realize that Bayan would be such a fun class and allows me to meet so many people.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose interesting because I feel like this class discusses topics that aren't usually distinguished, which makes the class more interesting and fun.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is that time managing is so important. I've learned how to manage work, school, and family/friends.

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If I had to describe my experience in Bayan in one word I would choose amazing. Amazing because I got to know so many great people in my class in just one month. I am actually a part of a group who are all positive, and funny, and kind.

I’m not usually one to start a conversation or get to know people, but if I was in a program styled like Bayan in high
school, I wouldn’t have been too afraid to talk to people. I would’ve known how it feels to be part of a group who is mostly mature. And, I would know how a good, thriving community would feel like.

When I first heard about Bayan I just remembered knowing that it was about Filipino culture and that got me interesting and thinking that I’ll meet a bunch of Filipinos. I had no idea I’d make such good friends in a short amount of time. But, I’m grateful and won’t take anyone for granted in this class.

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When I first heard about Bayan it was during the SWC orientation and at first I wasn’t planning on joining because it didn’t seem something I’d be interested in , I didn’t realize that Bayan was even a thing at SWC until Professor Alberto talked about it during the orientation.

Before joining Bayan I felt nervous that I wasn’t going to meet any new people, Now that it’s been a month I’ve developed friendships with people I never knew I could. The class feels like a family and I’m very comfortable when I’m around these people.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose engaged because usually in English class before I’d get super bored and I would always space out. But Bayan addresses topics that aren’t usually talked about, and that makes the class more interesting.

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So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is how to take advantage of all the resources given to me on campus. I've been learning the locations around campus on where to head towards when I am in need of assistance on developing my skills like Math and Writing Centers at the Academic Success Center.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose the word community. The reasoning being that in Day 1 of Bayan, the experience was very welcoming and the core aspects being that we, the students, are there for each other when we need help. It is a way of giving each other the tools necessary to flourish together as a community.

If I participated in a Bayan style program in high school, I'd probably be a more prepared student for college and most likely have fixed any of the bad habits I developed in my time as a student. I could have been a better student if I have realized my strengths and weaknesses before I graduated High School.

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Before joining Bayan, I wondered if I'd make any friends since I keep to myself and wait until I have to talk to others. I didn't know if anyone would even remember my name because it's difficult to find common interests with a large group. Now that its been a month, I feel more comfortable talking to everyone. Especially with the hangouts we plan together, I really feel Bayan is more than a class and is a new found family.

If I participated in an Bayan style program in high school, I would've been more outgoing and meeting new people would be a lot easier. I mainly joined Bayan to meet people who were interested in learning the same culture as me but I didn't expect to interact with everyone so often. I expected the class to be like every other class I took my previous years.

The biggest "aha" moment I've had in Bayan so far is the time I was able to read my paper in front of everyone without breaking down to cry. I was able to put myself out there and voice out what I had written and it was my biggest accomplishments in school. I wouldn't have been able to do it if the atmosphere in the classroom was dull and no one cared about what I was saying.

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When i first heard about Bayan, I didn’t know what it was about til I found out about it. And I really enjoyed it. Usually , I'm shy and I sit in the back of the class or in the middle and just do my work on my own.  I didn’t realize that Bayan was an experience that I can enjoy, meet new people, and make new friends as well .

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose heart warming because it was really fun and nice to meet new people and making new memories as a group.

The biggest “aha” moment i’ve had in Bayan so far is that I’ve bonded with a lot of people and working in groups with others i don’t usually talk to. It was pretty fun . I’m pretty shy, but I’m a talker once I’m comfortable with the person; I’ll just start talking and being myself.

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If I participated in a Bayan style program in high school, I'd probably have a lot more friends that knows exactly what I'm learning. Someone who can help me do my work.

If I were describe my experience so far in one word, I'd describe it as different. Most of the people in class actually care about the subject, or so I suppose, and they're also much more friendlier.

Before joining Bayan, I felt like my college experience was going to feel scared, dull and lonely. Most of my close friends are on different schedules. Now it's been a month, I still feel a little bit like that but I'm getting much more comfortable in my setting and less afraid to share my ideas.

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When first I heard about Bayan i was excited because i wanted to transfer quickly and also keep my grades up i didn't realized it was more group based and that i would allow me to make so many friendships.

If I participated in an Bayan style program in high school, I'd of done so much better and been part of more groups.

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far, I would choose welcoming because i have never felt so apart of a group so quickly before.

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When I first heard about Bayan, I was enthusiastic to meet new people and other Filipinos and Filipinas. I didn't realize that I would meet everyone and feel at home whenever I go to class.

So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm  learning about college is that you manage your own time. And if you don't manage it correctly, then you will fall behind .

If I had to describe in one word my experience in Bayan so far,  I would choose  exotic because this is the first time I have ever experienced anything like this. Being in a class where you are basically a family.

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So far, one of the biggest lessons I'm learning about college is to always be on top of everything. College is way different from high school. You have a sense of independence and you're completely on your own,  so you must learn to keep that in mind or else you'll end up dropping out.

Before joining Bayan, I felt alone because no one could relate to me and I had to talk about certain things in order to maintain friendships. Now that it's been a month, I always feel involved and I never have to change the subject again.

When I first heard about Bayan, I'd figure it would be just another typical classroom situation. I didn't realize Bayan would worm its way into my heart until I found myself considering them a second family

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Before joining Bayan, I felt kind of nervous and just scared, and i'm usually always quiet or just doing my work and then leaving. I didn't really associate with anyone either .

Now that it's been a month, I made new friends. It's nice to have made new friends because usually everyone's first impression of me is intimidating and they get scared to approach me.

If I participated in an Bayan style program in high school, I'd probably be more outgoing and have more friends. The biggest surprise or "aha" moment I've had in Bayan so far is when the first day of class we did an icebreaker where we all had to memorize each others names for a grade.