Photo by Cristina Sim
From the get-go, Una Garcia (2 AB COM) describes herself as a people person: “Mega daldal, not-so-typical, number one gal,” as her newly minted O-Host branding suggests. This softhearted chatterbox strikes up a conversation with just about anyone simply because she enjoys learning what others have to offer, while giving them something to talk about, too.
“I like throwing a little attitude and a little personality in everything, as I feel the need to spice things up,” Una shares. “I rarely shy away from throwing in cheeky comebacks and playful remarks.”
Her OrSem debut perfectly aligns with the event’s theme of brave discovery. As someone unafraid to make her voice heard, Una is no stranger to the hosting world. Her high school days were marked by numerous gigs—fairs, concerts, and variety shows, to name a few. “There isn’t anything quite like the rush of adrenaline I get from the show going and the crowd roaring,” Una says.
However, beyond her skills on stage, Una’s OrSem experience was what really drove her to audition as an O-Host. “What made the idea of being an O-Host so appealing was the community of people working for OrSem,” she explains, as she recalls the unfaltering energy of each volunteer.
The decision to join such a huge event could not have been easy. But stepping into the OrSem spotlight was new to Una not because of the crowd, but because of the intensive preparations. Unlike her previous gigs, O-Host training came with in-depth workshops and a focus on co-host chemistry.
“[My co-hosts] all just get along and have fun while growing with each other,” Una says, commenting on “the sense of family” from the whole Host Hunt and O-Host team. “I personally really feel taken care of as a host. It’s clear that they value our growth and individuality.”
In the same way, Una sees college life as one huge opportunity for growth. After her own OrSem, she enjoyed spending freshman year with her block and the Ateneo Association of Communication Majors. These became her support systems and helped the host in her return to the stage. Still, Una admits that she navigates life in Ateneo with an open mind, especially when it comes to choosing her org commitments.
With this, she tells the incoming freshies that they, too, have endless possibilities ahead. “My advice is to take your time to find your thing,” Una shares. “Explore, experiment, and make a few mistakes. You’ll find your place eventually.”
As a final note, she emphasizes: “Oh, and don’t take the New Rizal naps for granted!”
