It was exactly seven years ago when I got the chance to enjoy the privilege (if that’s what you can call it!) and benefits of being one of the DOST Scholars in the country. It was a big help for my studies during my college years. Just imagine all that we, as scholars were getting during that time:
- A tuition fee of P3,500 per semester. This amount was paid in full to the university that I was enrolled in, which was by the way the Philippine Normal University, even if the tuition fee back then was only P350.00 for full semester! The amount alloted by the DOST is best consumed when a DOST Scholar is enrolled in University of the Philippines, a DOST-centered university.
- A one-time P1,000 (?) clothing allowance. This amount was given to us during our first year, first semester. I have no idea why this allowance is ONLY for one time when we were given four academic years to finish college. Just asking!
- A book allowance of P1,000 per semester. The book allowance was a big help for my books in college. Physics books cost a fortune because of its thickness! Thank God for this money allotment! Other stuffs like laboratory gown, activity workbooks, pads and papers and other school supplies were bought also because of the help of this allowance! This amount eventually increased during my senior year.
- A monthly stipend of P3,250! Now, this was the best part of being a DOST Scholar! Hehehe! Every the 7th or 10th day of the month, scholars piled-up the university’s cashier, not to pay for something but to get their monthly stipend, which are tax-free by the way! Thanks to all taxpayers and we were able to sustain our monthly living status and lived to our most guilty pleasures (hahaha!). The said amount became P3,400 during my senior year!
I must admit, most scholars during my college years, used their stipends to watch movies and do some other personal recreational activities! And I’m guilty of doing it! Hehehe! But of course, in defense to our dear DOST Scholars, as they say, “All work and no play, makes a dull boy!”. Isn’t it?
Part 1 of On being a DOST Scholar
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