Kyla’s life took a huge turn during the pandemic. Her mother was diagnosed with Stage 3 Ovarian Cancer. “When I found out, my other relatives immediately [sent] me to care for her,” Kyla said. “I have to admit that our relationship was complicated because we didn't know each other very well. But, as time passed, we got to know each other better and it became more comfortable to talk about things.” Kyla also took on side jobs such as being an admission supervisor, being an event organizer, and selling DIY bracelets, face mask holders, and rings online to help support her mother’s medications.
Ironically, their time together to reconnect and build a stronger relationship that for years was sustained from a distance was also the time when they had to learn how to let go and move forward.
Stepping up for her future
Kyla’s mother lost her battle in 2022. At 18, Kyla not only experienced a tragic loss but also had to make her own decisions and to steer her own path. Thankfully, her mother’s former employer took her in and is now her legal guardian. With this support, Kyla continues to work towards her dream of becoming a flight attendant. She says that her mother will always be her inspiration. “I saw how she worked so hard for me and how she worked hard for herself just to survive cancer. My mother's passing has taught me to live each moment to the fullest. Since we only have one life to live, why not alter your perspective on it, assist yourself in learning more about yourself, and optimize yourself as a person?”
Kyla is now enrolled in Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC), the premier digital-first college in the Philippines, taking up a bachelor’s degree and working as a Leads Engagement Associate. She works from home Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm and attends online classes on Mondays and Tuesdays. “The flexibility of school helped my work, school, and personal life a lot,” she says. “My coworkers are very supportive of my academic endeavors, and they allow me to attend my Monday and Tuesday classes as long as I fulfill my work in the morning.” Kyla added that since she can study at her own time and does not have to commute to school, she learns how to manage her own schedule and be more efficient with everything that she does. “On weekends, I have commitments, attend youth and Sunday services, and socialize with my churchmates.”
Though there are many challenges as a working student, Kyla sees these moments to learn and build character. “Whenever I feel overwhelmed with everything, I pause, take a deep breath, step away, write it out, and talk to myself for a moment. All of my can’ts become cans. That's something I'm really proud of.”
Wise beyond her years, Kyla has this message to working students – “Breakdowns will become breakthroughs. Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come. Malayo pa, pero malayo ka na.”
Kyla’s story is one of many that can inspire those who feel that they are left with very few options, especially working students who have to juggle so many priorities and challenges in life. She shared her story on day two of the Step Up Sa Pangarap Virtual Summit held last May 10 to 12. Day two focused on how to balance studies, work, and everyday life, and Kyla shared how she steps up every single day despite being diagnosed with a mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). “Though there are a lot of challenges as a working student, I take this moment to learn and to build character. My message to working students is to keep pushing forward. Don’t let the challenges of balancing work, studies, and your social life deter you from your goals. Remember to take care of yourself and seek support if needed,” she shared.
Step Up Sa Pangarap
MMDC and the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), together with their partners Contact Center Association of the Philippines (CCAP), Internet and Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines (IMMAP), Microsoft, McDonald’s, Concentrix, Genpact, Globe Business, and WhenInManila.com, joined forces to support and celebrate working students with Step Up Sa Pangarap, a movement that empowers anyone who wants to level up and face life head on. The 3-day Virtual Summit was held from May 10 to 12, featuring inspiring talks from keynote speakers and working students, as well as interactive Q&A sessions with life coaches. Learn more about the summit and what transpired during the 3-day event here. Watch out for skills development workshops that MMDC and its partners will roll out soon!
