Life is a journey. I perceive myself as a traveler in this world, commencing my expedition from the day of my birth until now, spanning 16 years. During my sixteenth year, I faced the pivotal decision of choosing the path and college to pursue. After thoughtful contemplation, I opted for a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy at San Beda College-Manila. Presently, I find myself in the second semester of my inaugural year at San Beda.
Because I was awarded a scholarship as valedictorian at Puerto Galera Academy, my parents decided to enroll me in this school. Our lives revolve around an ongoing journey of learning, encompassing activities such as reading, watching, observing, and listening. Furthermore, we acquire knowledge from the diverse individuals we engage with on a daily basis including our parents, schoolmates, classmates, professors, neighbors, teachers, and friends. Henceforth, life is an unceasing process of learning and consequently I have gained numerous valuable lessons.
Throughout my time at San Beda, I have encountered many opportunities for learning, self-discovery, and contemplation. In particular, I will highlight the experiences and insights gained during my initial year as a red lion. This period has been characterized by numerous valuable lessons learned, moments of introspection, and a newfound level of comprehension. A significant adaptation that occurred was the move from residing in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro to the vibrant urban surroundings of Manila. This transition necessitated independence and assuming responsibility for my own choices. Through this transformative journey, I realized that I possess complete agency in shaping my future.
I have discovered that displaying kindness, cheerfulness, politeness, humility, and friendliness can aid me in forming and developing friendships. This has enabled me to connect with my fellow bedans, classmates, neighbors, and professors. Another significant aspect of San Beda College is its religious nature as a Catholic school established by the Benedictines. Bedans are renowned for their dedication to prayer. Through the Campus Ministry at San Beda College, I was fortunate enough to engage in a peaceful retreat in Antipolo where I could spend time with God and enhance my understanding of Him. The school motto, “ora et labora,” which emphasizes prayer and work, truly resonates within the Bedan Community.
Prayer is an integral part of the classes at San Beda, both at the beginning and end. I have come to understand the immense value of prayer during challenging times and periods of exam stress. The curriculum includes theology units which aim to strengthen faith and deepen understanding about God. This has become an essential aspect of my life, extending even to my studies as I constantly seek guidance from God. As the saying goes, “DO YOUR BEST AND GOD WILL DO THE REST,” I dedicate my utmost effort in all endeavors, especially in my studies, while requesting divine guidance and protection.
Being a Bedan by spirit has also instilled in me a devotion towards several patron saints such as St. Benedict, St. Bede, Our Lady of Monserrat, and Santo Nino de Praga. At San Beda, I have learned one simple yet profound quote that resonates with all Bedans: “That in all things God may be glorified.” By the end of the first semester, I encountered individuals who had achieved far greater accomplishments than myself; however, they serve as sources of inspiration for me to strive for excellence in my academic pursuits.
I have also recognized that completing the four-year course of BS Accountancy is necessary for me to fulfill my aspiration of becoming a Certified Public Accountant someday.
As a scholar, I recognize the importance of maintaining academic excellence to alleviate my parents’ financial burden in covering tuition fees. Accountancy is a rigorous field that requires significant time and commitment to master. This journey has taught me the value of time and the irreversibility of wasted moments. As a result, I have honed my time management skills and devoted extra effort to studying accounting and other enrolled subjects. Additionally, this experience has instilled in me valuable lessons in perseverance, organization, and accountability. Furthermore, I am determined to increase my efforts in order to meet the demanding requirements of this challenging course.
In the age of globalization, where Western language and cultures have a significant influence on countries worldwide, including the Philippines, I have always been curious about how to fully embrace my Filipino identity. However, San Beda has provided an answer to this question. As part of the Linggo ng Wika celebration, we were required to wear traditional Philippine attire – Barong for males and Maria Clara for females. Additionally, throughout the rest of the week, we proudly wore shirts that represented different aspects of Filipino culture. These included iconic Ninoy Aquino Shirts as well as shirts depicting popular tourist destinations like Baguio (known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines) and Puerto Galera beach resorts.
San Beda College respects the true Filipino spirit by not making it mandatory to speak English inside the campus. Additionally, there is a flag ceremony during the first day of the school week where the National Anthem “Lupang Hinirang” is sung and the “Panatang Makabayan” and “Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas” are recited. These practices serve as reminders to strive to be a true Filipino. However, being Filipino goes beyond these rituals. San Beda College’s NSTP program and Filipino Subject have taught me how to embody the values of a true Filipino.
In our NSTP program, we are obligated to provide assistance and support to our fellow countrymen, specifically those who are poor and in need. In the Filipino Subject at San Beda, we are motivated to conduct research papers that tackle the issues that require attention and resolution within our country. Through these activities, such as flag ceremonies, community service, and researching social problems in our own community, I have learned how to embody the qualities of a true Filipino.
All my experiences and learning go beyond my one year stay at San Beda. The happy moments during intramurals, NCAA games, feasts, and other celebrations are not to be forgotten. San Beda College not only helps me become a globally competitive person, especially in Accountancy, but also allows me to make friends, be happy, practice my Christian faith, and embrace my Filipino culture. With all of these things, I can confidently say that “amazing things happen at San Beda College”.
