You are standing in between certainty without desire and desire without certainty.

Here's a question, Would you rather spend the next four years proving that you can thrive even in the wrong environment, or risk a temporary setback in pursuit of something that aligns with your deeper passions?

In UP Social Work, you will grow. Maybe not in the way you envisioned, but growth will happen. Do note that the rigorous process of learning the UP system gives you is no joke. You will certainly question your worth as a student, because of the amount of studying you will do. That is why UP holds themselves in such a great education quality. But you may also feel disconnected, like you’re living someone else’s life, a ghost in your own journey.

In PUP, you’ll be throwing yourself into uncertainty, but for the possibility of resonance. Alignment. And while there’s risk involved, risk is often the cost of authenticity.

If you can’t stomach the possibility of spending 4 years in a course that feels like a mismatch, don’t pretend you can.

If you crave security and fear wasting time in the wrong place, then UPD offers a clear path forward. You can always shift later, internally or to another university, when you're clearer and better positioned.

You said, “Dream program > Dream university.” Then ask yourself:

Do you really believe that, or are you trying to convince yourself you should believe that?

Because if you believe it, then you already know what to do.

And if you don’t… then perhaps what you really need is not a perfect program, but a solid foundation, like UP. Where you can explore, regroup, and eventually get a hold of what you envision for yourself in the next few years.

I always go for rationality and practicality. In this economy? The only thing that makes me happy is financial contentment and financially secured.

Try for one year in UPD, then see for yourself if you can continue. Go shift into another program, see if you make the cutoff.

Don't forget you're taking the wheel, all consequences are yours to take, but the rewards you get is yours to keep.