Studying in San Jose del Monte: What It's Really Like (No Sugarcoating)
okay, so here's the thing about studying in San Jose del Monte - it's not what you'd expect. i came here thinking it'd be this sleepy little town where everyone knows everyone, but nah, it's way more complicated than that.
first off, the universities. there's *Bulacan State University - Sarmiento Campus which is probably the biggest one around here. then you've got St. Paul University at San Miguel nearby (okay, not technically in SJDM but close enough). the thing is, these places are packed. like, really packed. i overheard someone say the student-to-teacher ratio is something like 1:50 in some classes. that's not a typo.
student life? it's a mixed bag. on one hand, you've got students who are super involved in orgs and events. on the other, you've got people who just show up for class and bounce. the commute is real - traffic can turn a 30-minute ride into 2 hours if you're unlucky. pro tip: download the Sakay.ph app if you haven't already. it's a lifesaver for figuring out jeepney routes.
rent-wise, you're looking at around PHP 3,000-5,000 for a decent room in a shared apartment. that's if you're okay with basic amenities. if you want aircon and your own bathroom, double that. food is surprisingly cheap though - you can get a full meal for under PHP 100 at most carinderias around the city proper.
now, about safety. i wouldn't say it's dangerous, but it's not exactly BGC either. petty theft happens, especially in crowded areas. one local told me to always keep my bag in front of me when riding public transport. another said to avoid walking alone late at night in certain areas. common sense stuff, really.
the weather here? let's just say it's either "why is the sun trying to kill me" hot or "i'm literally swimming to class" rainy season. no in-between. bring an umbrella. always.
what's cool though is that you're not too far from other places. Manila's just an hour or two away if you need that city fix. Angeles City is closer if you're into that scene. and if you're a nature person, there are some decent hiking spots nearby - Mt. Balagbag is a popular one among students.
one thing that surprised me was the job market for students. there are actually quite a few call centers and BPOs in the area that hire students for part-time work. minimum wage here is around PHP 400/day, which isn't amazing but it's something.
would i recommend studying here? honestly, it depends on what you're looking for. if you want that big university experience with all the bells and whistles, maybe not. but if you're okay with a more laid-back vibe and don't mind the occasional inconvenience, it's not the worst place to be.
just don't come here expecting it to be some hidden gem. it's got its issues, like any other place. but it's also got its charms - you just gotta know where to look.
oh, and if you're planning to stay long-term, learn to love tricycles*. they're everywhere and they'll become your best friend (and sometimes your worst enemy when they try to overcharge you).
You might also be interested in:
- https://topiclo.com/post/osasco-the-city-thats-not-what-you-expect
- https://topiclo.com/post/antipolo-diaries-the-good-the-bad-and-the-traffic-jams
- https://topiclo.com/post/10-things-you-must-know-before-moving-to-bahr-straight-from-a-local-whos-seen-it-all
- https://topiclo.com/post/hempsteads-biggest-employers-the-ones-that-actually-pay-and-the-ones-that-dont
- https://topiclo.com/post/the-best-public-and-private-schools-in-borvyehye-al-b-azz