But Geo’s story is not of her achievements, accolades, and impressive career milestones. Her proudest moments were when she overcame the struggles of a working student who was also a full-time scholar and her family’s breadwinner.
Despite being on a full scholarship, Geo still had to juggle 8 to 9 part-time jobs to provide for herself and her family. Both her parents were ill and her other relatives were also not able to work, so at an early age she had to step up and make sure they were financially secure and well taken care of.
“There were many times when I barely got to sleep or rest, and had no chance at all to process my emotions or mental health,” she shared. But as Geo was trying to find balance in her life, making time for friends and self-care, she kept her faith. “When I look back now, I just know it was all by the grace and mercy of God. Many times I wanted to quit, but God will just sustain me, provide for me, and take care of me and my family.”
Despite her toughest days, Geo was able to finish school with a final GPA of 1.67, and graduated as Cum Laude with a degree in BS Tourism from one of the top universities in the Philippines.Her scholarship kept her afloat with school expenses and extra curricular activities. However, she shared that her biggest achievement was overcoming the challenges she was faced with and developing a strong sense of self. “I could say that ‘getting the degree’ was not a win, it was just a bonus for me. But what I really earned all throughout is a resilient heart, strong character, unshakable faith, and wisdom beyond my age that are now so beneficial not just for me, but for the people I’m serving or working with.”
Looking back, her experiences shaped her to become a dedicated and compassionate leader. She believes that working students are built differently, and can step up to thrive in whatever path they choose with the right mindset and staying grounded in their values. She shares this message to all working students who may struggle and question themselves and their faith. “May you find a purpose deeper than just providing financially — but in the midst of situations na hindi natin pwedeng takbuhan o takasan, I pray na you see the brighter side of why these things had to happen or bakit kailangan natin ito pagdaanan. You are all heroes, and excited akong makita kayong mag-flourish, kasi alam ko nahirapan lang tayo bilang mga working students pero walang makakanakaw ng karakter, tibay ng loob, pusong pinagtibay ng panahon at sitwasyon, sipag na di matutumbasan, at pagmamahal na binuhos natin hindi lang para sa degree natin pero para sa mga taong mahahalaga sa atin.”
(May you find a purpose deeper than just providing financially — but in the midst of situations that we cannot run away from, I pray that you see the brighter side of why these things had to happen, or why we had to go through these things. You are all heroes, and I am excited to see you all flourish, because I know how hard it is to be a working student. Nothing can take away your character, strength, and heart that has weathered all kinds of situations. Your diligence and work ethic are immeasurable, as well as the love that you have poured into, not just your degree but for the people you value.)
Step Up Sa Pangarap
Geo is just one of the many working students who can inspire anyone who wants to step up and achieve their dreams. Mapua Malayan Digital College (MMDC), the premier digital-first college in the Philippines, and the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), together with their partners Contact Center Association of the Philippines (CCAP), McDonald’s, Concentrix, Genpact, and Globe Business, are leading the way to celebrating working students with Step Up Sa Pangarap, a movement that empowers anyone who wants to level up and face life head on. Whether you are looking to learn new skills or earn a college degree, you can be a part of the Step Up sa Pangarap campaign. Attend our 3-day Virtual Summit on May 10 to 12, featuring inspiring talks from keynote speakers and working students. Register here.
Follow MMDC on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. Applications for Term 3 of School Year 2022-2023 will be accepted until March 5, 2023.
