The Class 2023

a mental health consultation. Learning to determine his triggers wasn’t easy for it did not happen overnight, but through the continuous support of his friends and family who were behind his back throughout his journey, he was able to rediscover his purpose in life. After hitting what he called the “lowest point” of his life, Christian was determined to turn away from the remnants of his past and grab all the opportunities that may arrive. Not wanting to experience the same situation once again, he now sees life as half full. “I don’t want to graduate without achieving anything, without reaching my college goals, and I don’t want to live in regrets in the future,” Christian said. Now eyeing to pass the board exams after college, Christian plans to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses either here in the country or in the United States. If there is anything that Christian hopes to leave before taking the next step of his life, that is to “take risks, enable yourself to grow, and do not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone.” “The world has enough space for improvement—do not just stay inside the four corners of your room because there are a lot of opportunities that wait for you so never limit your capabilities,” Christian noted, now seeing the world in a brighter perspective than before. Some may say that one cannot perceive the world through both sides in the “glass half empty” or “half full” argument, but the truth is perspectives shift. Maybe the glass has always been full—with half of it occupied by the waters of our past and the other half filled by a mixture of endless possibilities— and maybe life itself is overflowing with opportunities. 51

We are all pilgrims in search of something greater than ourselves. Whether we are doing this with fear or the lack thereof, one thing is for sure: we are going on an adventure. With a rough sketch of a map in hand, we ask ourselves: where do we go next?

This was not the plan. Whatever will be, will be.





What lies ahead?

The Liminal Stage words by Karen E. Pico art by Sir Emmanuel Lee E. Mediavilla Just a few years in college, they thought. And so, the years went. As they immersed themselves in this different, challenging environment through navigating office work shifts, fulfilling endless responsibilities, engaging in team-building exercises, planning projects, having workplace snack dates, clutching stacked-up deadlines, and engaging in thought-provoking discussions, they experienced a profound sense of belonging. Here, they found a new home. Every minute that they worked with their org mates felt like “happy hour”—until one day, four years later, midnight finally struck. It was only when they looked back on their journey that they could clearly see how much they’d grown in that close-knit organization— how far they’d come. And here, they found themselves somewhere great, amidst like-minded souls hailing from different colleges, all driven by the fierce desire to learn. As they departed the sanctuary of the office they once called home, a bittersweet nostalgia washed over them. Once again, they had to bid adieu to all that was comfortable and familiar. This time, they embarked on their journey with a renewed sense of self, shaped by the second families they belonged to and the individuals they met along the way. As they gazed back at the gates of their alma mater, they thought: Those were the best years in college.

words by Immalie Rose E. Cafifge photos by John Brainard G. Uberas If life is a journey, find Fred traversing a long winding, concrete route of possibilities, ready to take on every opportunity ahead of him. Born and raised in the month of Halloween in 2000, in the city that never frowns, Fred Louie Donguez took on his role as the eldest among three siblings. A Lasallian at heart, Fred spent his 16 years—and counting— of education at the University of St. La Salle, ever since first grade. Like any other adventure, he also went through scenes of self-transformation as his own hero. However, despite the second and third thoughts, one dream remained in mind: to be a lawyer. And so, from the introverted, quiet boy that he once was during his elementary years, Fred unexpectedly melded with student leadership when he reached fourth grade. “The first position that I had was when I was elected as the Religious and Outreach Coordinator. I did rosary, led outreach programs, and collected 58

University Student Government money for the outreach,” he mentioned, college started and being undecided on adding that he got into different student what course to take became a pondering leader positions every year from then on. thought for Fred. “Med sounds great,” he once thought, “but my heart belongs more The other great feat that he achieved was to Political Science.” Just like what other joining the USLS Acolyte in eighth grade, people say, there will be reroutes every now which he is currently still a part of. In fact, and then when navigating through one’s life among all the organizations he became journey. involved in, being an acolyte is the one responsibility he never lost his grip on. Yet there was nowhere to go but forward From the well-versed words of Fred, this for when he pursued Political Science, the was where his passion to serve started and chance for a position on the USLS Student remains the same place he goes back to. Senate came knocking on his door. From Sometimes, these opportunities come being a senator during the pandemic, Fred unexpectedly, only for him to learn later on climbed up the ladder to being the Senate that he loves serving his fellow students and President in third-year college. immersing himself in the community to help those in need. He also affirmed that being a student leader is never easy—for it needs patience, On the flip side, it wasn’t always rainbows courage, and hard work to provide and butterflies. It also came to a point quality service to the Lasallian community. where he was determined to stop engaging Furthermore, growing from the grassroots himself in student leadership right before as a Lasallian student, Fred remained59

attentive to other students’ concerns and through different partnerships and dialogue necessities, pushing him to improve his with the different offices,” as Fred remarked. leadership skills efficiently. Now, being the Executive President of the USLS Student Despite all the challenges and self-doubt Government, Fred continues to face giants Fred has gone through, to continuously along the road to success. find new ways to become an effective leader and make each day better as a USG “Having the job as an Executive President President is a goal that he never gives up [of the USG] is a fulfilling moment because on. Moreover, he balances his time by even though I didn’t dream or ask for it, [the prioritizing academics before doing USG- position] was given to me [because of] hard related work, considering the weight of work and destiny. Sometimes, [we] don’t the workload. Though, taking breaks is ask for it but the Lord has other plans [for also part of his priority list, saying that he us],” he relayed. does TikTok videos, plays Mobile Legends and other sports, eats, plays with his seven Even so, there are boulders needed to dogs, and spends time with family, friends, be conquered. Specifically, the setup of and loved ones before diving back to the online classes and hybrid learning up to the work cycle. face-to-face classes, as well as the internal and external obstacles faced by the USG, Had it not been for the USG and other such as working with a tight budget due organizations he’s been part of, Fred to pandemic-related cuts. “We have been would never have discovered his love working around limitations to make quality for community involvement and his programs and initiatives for the students extroverted self: “These are precious 60

experiences that [I] can use, especially COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES [in] my field as a Political Science student and a future lawyer. [...] My activities and 61 organizations taught me to communicate with people, constituents, and the community.” Aside from this, Fred’s inspiration and role model in life are his parents who work hard for their family, sharing that they are not perfect but they have the greatest impact in his life and so he wants to be like them. Be that as it may, Fred learned that chances come because one can do it. If there is something he would like to say to his younger self, it would be to say YES! to every window of opportunity. There are still a lot of plans mapped on the byway, but before Fred moves to another chapter, he wanted to do three things: explore and try out food he has never tried before in the university, fully experience his last Animolympics, and leave a legacy where Lasallians are more empowered to speak up and have the right to access different programs and activities such as Lingkod Lasalyano—where scholarship funds are provided to not just the academic achievers, but Lasallians from marginalized communities. Lastly, the greatest lesson Fred has come to learn and share about his hero’s journey is the importance of identity. “You have to have integrity so that people can believe [and] trust you because you can serve the people well if they trust you,” he emphasized. “You can get that identity if and only if you stand with the right morals [and] virtues.” There is a lot more to uncover once Fred steps out of the USLS Coliseum wearing his graduation toga, and perhaps, another adventure is yet to begin.

words by Meryl C. Sigaton photos by Esther Joyce M. Limbaña It’s hard to miss someone really passionate about what they do; they just exude I-love-what-I’m-doing- and-I’m-not-afraid-to-be-who-I-am vibes. While walking down the street, you’d see someone like Fritz “B-boy Hypertz/Shyman” Licañel bobbing his head or subtly tutting his hands like he’s possessed by some music playing in the background—except only he could hear it. Equipped with a carefree mindset, this hip-hop breakdancer is all about cascading through life in freestyle. If you find that hard to believe, here’s a piece of evidence: Fritz being out of town—to places like Cebu, Iloilo, or Dumaguete (Siquijor being his favorite)—for workshops or dance battles is a normal occurrence. So, one time, there he was in Manila on January 3, 2023. But on his flight back to Bacolod at 4:30 A.M., the takoyaki fiend was found reviewing notes rather than sleeping. Of course, he had to— he had an exam by 7:30 A.M. Although he didn’t arrive on time (adding that his phone battery died and he forgot 62

where his exam room was), he successfully Artists’ Hub took it and passed. playground to dance and chat, maybe You’d think someone with such a busy eat, then dance some more. lifestyle would be enrolled in a less demanding course, but guess what? Fritz All he knows about how his love for here is a soon-to-be Chemical Engineer—a dancing started was that he idolized daunting undertaking proven by the fact Michael Jackson, and the rest was history. that there are only eleven of them left in his His motive? “For the love. Nanamian gid ko class. Definitely not for the faint of heart, ya bi mag saot. […] Palangga ko ang saot, but neither is breakdancing (bruises are a kay daw indi ako kung indi ko ka saot.” As lot to contend with already)! And yet, he a dancer, he shared, Fritz doesn’t exactly was awarded in the Corps d’Elite 2023 as have a signature style but added that one the Most Outstanding Student in the Field should focus more on internalizing and of Performing Arts under Artists’ Hub. interpreting the music to a point that even the deaf can feel what the piece is about “How do they do it?” One may ask—a even if they can’t hear it. question for the ages. But, relating the way they solve problems in class to real 63 life, he says there’s always more than one solution to arrive at an answer. Fritz recounts how studying is integrated into his daily routine, “Actually akon mga classmate [...] matsagan nila sakon waay ko gatuon pero gatuon ko,” he jokes. Fritz starts his day by scanning notes from 6 to 7 A.M., goes back to sleep, wakes again by 8, gets to school at 9 (but remarks he’s still tardy coming all the way from his hometown Bago City), attends classes, hangs out with classmates (as he prefers to study with others, like listening to them discuss the lessons), gets off classes at 4:30, stays at the Jean Baptiste Dance Company studio waiting for practice time at 6:30, then arrives home at 10:30 P.M. You’d also think he’d head straight to bed, but you’d most likely find him practicing instead as he doesn’t want to lie down while still feeling pumped. On weekends (and holidays), he tries to get in as much practice as he can, saying “[G]usto ko gid gyapon mag practice […] daw ka way of life ko na.” He also shared that their way of practicing is much more like friends gathered in a

Starting with a group of friends and co- other styles (like ballet), claiming it just hobbyists in 2012 when they were just in brings a different kind of enjoyment. He 6th grade, the name of his first dance crew shared how others attempt to sympathize, originated from mispronounced banaba saying things like “kapoy kapoy simo kas ketchup—now “Project Banana”. His ba” or “wala pahuway, ano na man,” but favorite dance trip was from Life’s a Beach: he also added that it’s not for everyone. Flatrock Island Jam in April 2019—a three- day hip-hop convention attended by both “Indi mainchindihan sang tanan pero local and international artists where he met may ara man nga naka inchindi,” he and bonded with a variety of personalities, commented. Who could argue with that? learned from them, and heard their stories. When stressed, sci-fi and superhero Fritz described his life as an artist as flicks, K-dramas (like Goblin), and anime “crazy, but nice,” despite his inexplicable (especially Boku no Hero) are his go- return to breakdance even after exploring to. Another thing he loves is fashion, so 64

much so that he even has his own thrift COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES shop business—an endeavor he hopes COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES to expand in the future by establishing a clothing line together with his b-boy friends LaJbearseotne that will incorporate breakdance gear such as special beanies for headspins and the 65 like. It started before the pandemic as a way to fund Project Banana’s out-of-town fares and other expenses but has been hard to commit to since the resumption of face- to-face classes. He added that clothing can affect how they move—that by looking and feeling fresh, they can get their groove on more confidently. On the topic of future endeavors, Fritz truly wants to continue making a career out of dancing, from conducting workshops to one day setting up his very own studio. His other goals include leaving a legacy, something that’s happening now in his workshops in Binalbagan and Escalante. Middle child Fritz would also have liked to follow his father’s career as an environmentalist, but bittersweetly remarks that it’s just not his path. Happiness and success to Fritz are as simple as being financially stable, being with his family, and being able to keep pursuing his dreams. To impart something of himself to others, to uplift other artists in their unique craft, and to influence others to better their lives—that’s the kind of artist he wants to be. With his life motto written above inspired by Bruce Lee’s iconic quote “Be water, my friend,” Fritz’s fluid routines—the spins, twists, and flips to the beat of his own rhythm—are sure to take him through the dynamic motions of life.

words by Krizzia Ricci T. Nepomuceno photos by Esther Joyce M. Limbaña Tenacity is a powerful driving force. In its reference state, it provides a precursor for excellence. But beyond that, it builds upon the virtuosity of a man and his will to serve (not only in flesh) but also in spirit. Josh Ezra Guintos, a BS Chemical Engineering graduate and member of the Vocations Ministry Office, has the zeal for both. Josh grew up in La Salle Avenue’s locale—spending his preschool in L’ecole, grade school in St. Scholastica’s Academy, and the rest of his school years at the University of St. La Salle. However, he did not constrict himself to the disposition of the usual academic 7-5, taking on extracurricular activities and projects beyond what the classroom could offer. “I want to experience more things, which is why I kept on joining different clubs and staying with those clubs up until now,” 66

English, and Science and also catered to Vocations Ministry Office the less fortunate. Even now as SBMA’s vice-principal, he vows to share his time and efforts in providing service for the community. Still, integrating organizational work with academics is all about creating the right balance. And since Josh has been in the VMO for more than six years now, he finds that it has somewhat become easier to handle. In essence, the equilibrium held by his passion and intention to serve is what drives him to be more active in his field. But balancing has always been second nature for Josh with his interest in chemistry; taking up chemical engineering was even his ideal college course when he was in he said. In those systems, he would learn 67 commitment and dedication through his years as an acolyte, a production manager, and a consistent classroom officer. His call to serve started strong and grew along with his faith. The university, through the De La Salle Brothers Bacolod, became the avenue to fulfill his role. Way back when Josh was in Grade 10, he was invited by a certain Br. Butch Alcudia to join the Vocation’s Ministry Office. Assured by their mission of enrichment for young men who dream to be brothers and volunteers who are passionate to teach, he took on the challenge in eleventh grade. From there, his experience would continue to build and become more meaningful, shaping him into who he is in the present. On the bridge between high school and college, he started being a Saint Brother Miguel Academy (SBMA) principal. There, he helped children learn Math,

high school. However, when he was able to society. As a future engineer, he holds actually get into the program, he learned the pleasure to help other people in the that it was not all about Chemistry—not best and most sustainable way possible. just CO2s and NaCls, but it was also about And despite the stark difference between flow rates, plant designs, and hard deals on his vocation and his course, everything is survival. driven by his passion. A course as technical and challenging as chemical engineering Being part of the first batch to take a first- intertwined with his responsibilities in the year qualifying exam, the pressure to remain VMO became a petri dish of endeavors, in the program has only built up over time. but he does his best with a hundred percent And in his final year, it’s become more critical effort and a good work ethic. He values his to overcome the challenges and struggles passion for what he does the most, saying brought about by the course. “It’s been a that all other valuable things in his life stem huge adjustment in terms of catching up from the ardor to keep going and not give with our lessons [due to] the two years of up. online classes, especially with [chemical engineering],” he shared. Fortunately, Josh But in the long run, one thing must be is among the group of 11 who are left and prioritized more than the other. For a bound to graduate from the course. period in his life, he dreamed of becoming a Brother to spread love and faith through In his journey through college, he catechism. However, after Josh’s last says that his decisions have revolved conversation with Br. Butch, he decided around innovation and service without to forego that goal. He might have been compromising the environment and passionate about serving the community, 68

but other Brothers said that if he pursued God’s call, he might feel trapped. It became a passion-vs-passion pit where he learned that maybe his calling was in the field of engineering. Fortunately, it didn’t stop his zeal for communal servitude; after all, he can still help—and on a much bigger scale—through his course. “If I am a Brother, I can only help those in the Lasallian community, but if I am an engineer, I can help everybody,” Josh commented in realization. He further noted that being of aid to others makes him feel good and allows him to be more zealous of what he does in his vocation. He admits that he wasn’t always one with good study or management habits, but he had to improve himself to cope. In a sense, he had to learn how to manage his time and his surroundings; he had to put in the effort to become better. And here he is today, months away from graduation. However, his story does and will not end there. The journey is long and unpredictable but it is in those high moments that he learns where to swerve to next. Now in his venture to the call of his course, it has become a matter of him going beyond his capabilities. Still, with the deep conviction for fulfilling his purpose, it is the metaphorical kinetics that will help him achieve his goals—from a young child looking for purpose through his organizations, to a man striving to give back to his community from what his two hands could offer. 69

words by Jamille E. Barrios & Alyssa Nicole T. Maquiran photos by John Brainard G. Uberas The fire of unquenchable ambition is a fierce and relentless force that will not be stopped until dreams of grandeur are realized. It is a flame that ignites the soul with a burning desire to succeed, pushing one to strive for excellence and never settle for less. Bren Carl Talita is that visible, blazing flame. From joining the USLS Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Junior Philippine Economics Society (JPES), Samahan ng Makabagong Lasalyano - Sectoral Action Group for Empowered Students (SAMALAYA- SAGES), Ayala Young Leaders Congress, and the BALAYAN Social Development Center, Bren has not faltered—not a flicker nor a dim. Just what kindles such a flame? Ignition Bren’s love for learning was illuminated at a young age by his parents, both of whom held the torch of knowledge as school principals in different sectors. This initially sparked 70

Balayan Office his interest in being an educator himself, established the university’s official online though his parents had high hopes that he voting system during the pandemic, would excel in the medical or legal field ultimately protecting the sanctity of the instead. Lasallian community’s democracy and upholding COMELEC’s morals. “Looking Leaving the seas of Escalante City to back, my advocacy was not [centered] on pursue the Accountancy, Business, and community engagement. My advocacy, Management strand in Liceo - De La Salle, since I was [in] first year, is heavily shaped by Bren was determined to burn even brighter. COMELEC: voter’s education and collective The University of St. La Salle, being the alma enlightenment,” he reminisced. mater of his unwaveringly encouraging brothers, became the next target. Driven by clear priorities as the JPES Free-burning President in his fourth year, he led the organization towards holistic team Tipped by his brother about the possibility objectives fiercely anchored on the of combining Liberal Arts and Commerce, belief that an organization is its people. Bren took the chance to blaze a trail on the His leadership bagged him the Corps course by taking up Political Science and d’Elite (CDE) award for Most Outstanding Economics. Always wanting to switch things Academic Club President in 2022 while JPES up, the freshman entered Political Science was recognized as the Most Outstanding without any background on the course, Academic Club. though his awareness of social politics helped him easily catch up to his peers. To really impart change upon the Lasallian community, one would need a platform high Joining the COMELEC as a freshman in enough to amplify the voice of thousands, 2018, Bren quickly proved himself to be a and Bren knew that running for the position vital member—a pillar holding positions as of University Student Government Executive acting vice chair and later, the COMELEC President would allow him just that. Lo and chairperson for the next two years. The behold, life had better ideas as to where the visionary then seared his name and legacy student leader could redirect his passion for in the organization after he successfully service. 71

While waiting for the results, the candidate Advocacy in the CDE 2023. He humbly told himself that if he didn’t win the general acknowledged that the spotlight feels like elections, he’d devote his fifth year to a responsibility to be looked upon, and BALAYAN instead, which was how he started through recognition, he realized he had volunteering and working as an intern for been pushing for an advocacy all along, the office. According to Bren, BALAYAN is even when he felt like he was not. When more than a workplace; it allows students doubts threaten to snuff out the light, to see how classroom lessons are translated BALAYAN Senior Administrative Assistant to real-world scenarios. He forged bonds Sir Randy Saplagio assured him that the with the families he got to spend time administration isn’t only looking at his with––from the challenging Gawad Kalinga outreach programs—it’s the advocacies he workshops in Bago City to the meaningful has been emulating since he stepped foot community immersions in San Enrique. in the university. “BALAYAN is the gateway of La Salle to its Smoldering partner communities,” he expressed. As the fire triumphs, the heat subsides As a result of committed volunteer service, and the cinders need some time to breathe this flame garnered well-deserved praise by before they flare once again. When he’s not being nominated as Outstanding Student busy handling organization duties, Bren in the Field of Community Involvement for plays a quick round of Mobile Legends or Environmental and Social Development tinkers with the layers on Adobe Photoshop, 72

where his creativity lit two consecutive years of visual arts award nominations for CDE. After being a beacon for most of his college life, the blaze settled into a steady glow as Bren approached his last year at the university. With significantly fewer units and a freer schedule, he took this opportunity to make up for the lost time by getting enough rest, meeting new people, and going on night outs with friends. “Although it may not be my most productive year, my fifth year has been my happiest year yet because I had more time for myself,” he smiled. “As much as you want to prove yourself to other people [of] what you can do, don’t forget to choose yourself.” However, his fiery involvement in community service doesn’t end here. Bren plans to pursue law school, taking a step closer to actualizing his goal of either working in an embassy or as a corporate lawyer with his own non-governmental organization. The aspiring attorney is still keeping his options open, though, and is also considering starting a social enterprise with an advocacy or running for his hometown’s Sangguniang Kabataan council one day. Sometimes, twin flames go beyond romantic partners—it can also be one passionate advocate finding their way to another. While Bren and BALAYAN only crossed paths this school year, the two entities are sparked by the same flint and burn for shared causes: social awareness, community engagement, and active volunteerism. Over two decades since his ignition, Bren remains incandescent as ever and will continue to light the paths of the people he will meet in the years to come. 73

words by Anna Maria J. Villanueva photos by Keilah N. Baldomar History has its list of iconic duos: notorious felons Bonnie and Clyde, Shakespearean lovers Romeo and Juliet, actresses Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen—the list goes on. The embodiment of the Gestalt theory “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts,” what makes these duos great is that they are better together than they are apart. Lasallian collegiate varsity players and fraternal twins John Terence and Paul Klinbert Cordova are a package deal— partners since birth, both Operations Management majors, and even real-life business partners. They are, however, greatly known for their notable marks as football players, a legacy that dates back to their elementary years. Veterans of the USLS Varsity Sports Office, they have had their fair share of goals, assists, and losses, just like any player. In their final playing year, they pay tribute to the sport to which they gave everything and, in return, gave them everything as well. 74

to join Paul and their cousins who Varsity Sports Office were football players. When asked - Paul if he had any regrets, he gave a non-hesitant, “Wala man ah.” The Kickoff Give and Go When the Cordova twins tried out for Being a tandem, they embarked on the rigorous student-athlete life the USLS varsity football team as incoming together. A life that was composed freshmen, nothing was set in stone—yet. of waking up at dawn for training, Paul attributed them successfully passing heading straight to class where they the tryouts to their lucky stars, but if anything, had to fight the tiredness whilst their years of experience can vouch for their listening to their lectures, going home all the skill levels. Their football journey started way to Bago, finishing their requirements, in the summer of their third grade, in their and heading to bed—then repeating. hometown of Bago City. Their first shots As emphasized by the ‘student’ in student- as varsity players came in Grade 6 which athlete, they must maintain high grades continued to senior high, representing the to maintain their scholarship and varsity University of Negros Occidental - Recoletos, status. Paul emphasized the importance and college, representing USLS. of time management, balancing both their football training and studies. They live by A journey 12 years in the making, the two their Coach Norman “Nonoy” Fegidero’s have been a tandem ever since. In fact, reminder, “Una ang pagiging student sang John initially had his heart set on learning sa athlete.” taekwondo, however, he was encouraged The Shot According to the twins, one of the highlights of being a student-athlete is the opportunity 75

to travel and represent the school on the The student-athlete life is not exempt regional and national levels. Here, they can from any hardships. One such hardship is build a stronger team dynamic with their finding the energy to manage everything: members, who they deem as their brothers. waking up for their early-morning practices, On the field, they have faced victories, losses, staying awake during classes, and taking and even controversies together. But in the care of their football equipment (a must to event of a conflict, they all follow one rule: ensure a good performance). The pandemic “Kung ara sa field, sa field lang i-bilin. Kung even took away two years of what would ara sa gwa, sa gwa lang i-bilin—indi pag dal- have been opportunities to build their on sa field. Kung ara sa field, indi pag dal-on skills and memories with their teammates. sa gwa.” Amidst adversity, they tag their parents as their support system, who remind them of the importance of their degree. They say, “Football will always be there. What’s important is your degree when you graduate.” Man To Man Ultimately, their biggest support system would have to be each other. Their being fraternal twins is most evident in their personalities. John recalled their high school years as Paul belonging to the “higher” sections while he was usually placed in the “lower” ones—interpret that as you wish. According to them, their dynamics at home and on the field bear no difference as they are always together—a fact that they are not bothered by. “Kung wala siya, pangitaon ko man kung diin siya,” Paul revealed. According to them, being twins is an advantage because of the healthy competition they have with each other. “Indi man ka magpapirde haw,” John said. These two can either play as forward or defender—if a twin takes on one position, the other twin takes on the other. They have also collectively agreed on the importance - John 76

of being role models to their juniors because, according to Paul, “Kung ano ang i-bilin namon, makwa man na nila asta ma graduate sila.” They, too, have their own role models—an honor that they would like to hand over to their Coach Nonoy who has taught them the importance of respect, detail-orientedness, and leadership on the field and in real life. If there’s any career they look up to, it would be that of the decorated Argentinian football star, Lionel Messi, who achieved the World Cup in his final World Cup game. “Amo man na amon gusto, na sa last man namon [na year], maging champions [kami] asta sa nationals,” Paul said. The Goal The future looks bright for the twins— regionals in May and, hopefully, nationals in July. After graduation, they are opening their doors to pursue a professional football career, but if life has other plans, they would like to focus on running their rice business. Wherever life would bring them, the experiences and lessons they obtained from football are sufficient enough to equip them to face anything. They advise other student-athletes to value the opportunity given to play on the varsity team. “If gin gaan kamo chance na maging scholar, indi niyo pagbuy-an kay damo gid tao na deserving gid maging scholar,” John said. As for others? Paul invites them to take the lead, develop weaknesses, and take on opportunities. On their own, apart from being football players, both Paul and John have their personalities and goals that make them who they are. Their individual strengths, grit, and passion allow them to take on the world— however, all of these are always better when the twins are together. 77

The Graduate’s Social Security System (SSS) Trinity of Documents Step 1: Determine your occupation-based category and gather the necessary documents, words by Rieden Denielle N. Cuadra such as your passport, driver’s license, etc. art by Jamille E. Barrios Step 2: Locate the nearest SSS branch, fill in all Jobsurfing is terrifying—but only if one is fields of the membership application form, and unprepared. So, go get your diploma and submit your records. breeze through the applying-for-work process with these three documents in hand. Plus, all of Step 3: Attend any SSS seminar (if required), these are guaranteed to be free of charge if you and wait for your SSS number to be issued, have a barangay certificate from the First Time which should be done in less than an hour. Jobseekers Act! Step 4: Receive your SSS number and keep it safe for future transactions. Tax Identifcation Transcript Number (TIN) of Records (TOR)) Step 1: Determine your taxpayer type and gather the required documents (passport, Step 1: Send a request to the office of the driver’s license, etc.) Higher Education Unit (heu.document@usls. edu.ph) using the following format: Step 2: Visit the nearest BIR office and submit Subject: TOR - Last Name, First Name Initial. the TIN application form and documents. Step 2: Verify with the administrative assistant at the Business Office (BO) or online. Step 3: Pay the processing fee (Php 500) and wait for your TIN to be processed. Step 3: Pay the processing fee (Php 100) at BO or through external authorized payment Step 4: Receive your TIN within the day if you centers. apply before the 1 P.M. cut-off, or wait 1-3 days if the office encounters any technical problems. Step 4: Confirm the request and wait for a schedule to be claimed. Enlightened with this knowledge, it is now your turn to get off your seat and put yourself out there. Slide through the alleyways and corners of the city—and make sure to complete these top threes! 78

Reaggregation words by Adrianne H. Splagio art by Jan Brilly S. Chavez Their daily 6 A.M. alarm sounded and they rushed out of their houses, sleep-deprived and hopefully fueled by caf- feine, as they scrambled to make it to class. They counted down the minutes—the mere seconds—until the lecture was over so they could finally enjoy the mayhem brought upon by boisterous laughter and multiple pleas for iced coffee. As the bell rang, they found themselves in a place with no shortage of work—one where they ironically discovered peace surrounded by their fellow stress-driven colleagues clamoring to make the 11:59 P.M. deadline for both writers and creatives alike. The cacophony of banter and overlap- ping conversations sounded like a beautiful melody to their ears, reminding them that, though they were all working towards different goals, they were all in this together. Chaos reigned freely at their workplace—as it always has, as it always should, and as it always will. Finding solace here should have been extremely unlikely, yet sitting on a worn- down sofa littered with random pillows and stuffed toys has never felt better. Home is where the heart is, and, albeit buried under the havoc and constant panic, the hearts of these graduating students were nestled comfortably at The Spectrum Office. 79

GThoemG!et words by Patrick N. Billojan photos by Phoebe Daidoji Q. Jabonete 80

Personals For two consecutive years, the University Para mahawan ang mga dalanon sa of St. La Salle (USLS) has scored a 100% siyudad sang Bacolod, ginpatuman passing rate in the Nursing Licensure sang Department of Interior and Local Examination (NLE) as announced by the Government ang clearing operations Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) sang mga illegal nga istruktura sa mga last June 31. pampubliko nga dalan sugod sang Agosto 10 tubtob sa subong. “This generation is overstimulated, Jesther Seth Sangco was at his best when overworked, and over-expectant.” Marketer’s Union fell in a shackle. Club booths and food stalls filled the Bacolod Master Sardines wind up their University Parking Lot last July 23-25, as the home court games with a 1-1 deadlock. University Student Government together with the different campus clubs and organizations, In today’s society, it is all about what you unfolded this year’s Club Fair themed “Myriad: have and who knows you have it. One way An Era of Brighter Possibilities.” of telling the world about it is through The University of St. La Salle Stingers flexing. You can flex to inspire and motivate vanquished the entire Dual Meet scene others to do better, and be successful in achieving the things that you have. But as they trashed the Siliman University sadly, most people do otherwise. They just Stallions in their homecourt, bagging six out flex to incite jealousy in other people—to of seven sporting events last August 24. make them feel good about themselves and to show that their life is so much better Defending champion Creamline secured than the rest. the number one seeding in the Final Four after handing Petrogazz their fourth loss of Matibay ang walis, palibhasa’y the season, 25-21, 26-24, 19-25, 25-18, at the magkabigkis. This Filipino proverb Coliseum last Oct. 10. summarizes how Bacolodnons faced the pandemic as they kept the bayanihan spirit alive through an online barter community. The coronavirus diseases 2019 suspended almost all events in the country this year— sporting events are no exception. Five. That’s not his height, his jersey number, nor his grade equivalent—it’s the number of goals he scored in a single match. Traveling 7.6 miles away from home, Elimona Usman, a Nigerian native, took his first flight all the way to the Philippines with two things in mind—to study and to continue his love for football. Eli may have been trembling with nerves on his way, but 81

by the time he stepped on the pitch, he In normal times, Roman Catholic priest felt like he belonged. Fr. Michael Ma. Cuenca, MMHC would have weekly visitations to schools and jails Who would have thought that writing to and delivering news to the people would conduct masses. These days, he sits in front of his device to hold online masses become a job so dangerous? It is, when for the people, prisoners, and their youth ministry every Sunday. you serve people the truth. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivered Throughout history, humanity has been plagued and infected by slew of heinous his fifth State of the Nation Address last murderers. To name a few, cholera, July 27 at the Plenary Session Hall of the bubonic plague, and influenza appeared Batasang Pambansa Complex. out of nowhere and claimed the lives of millions of people. To protect ourselves Boxing in the Philippines has been in the against these unseen enemies, medical limelight for several years with the eight- researchers and scientists have worked time world champion, former congressman, tirelessly to come up with a prevention, and now senator, Manny Pacquiao leading which came to be known as vaccines. the torchlight. However, just like everything else, vaccines do experience discrimination as well. History has been written and it was marked with gold, purple, and black ink. The golden girl, Hidilyn Diaz, now has a After a decade, the Los Angeles Lakers are second home after the provincial government of Negros Occidental declared her as an back on the throne for the 17th time after “adopted daughter” of the province. flaunting their championship chops to send the Miami Heat back home with a crashing 106-3 coup in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. 82

Days turned into weeks and weeks turned (which is very ironic that I was puzzled to into months, and in the blink of an eye, we establish a good write-up even though I am are still here after a year—stuck on the same so used to speaking it), moved to different ride, waiting for this rollercoaster to stop. publication positions every year while writing for all written printed outputs (and Which of the following is an untrustworthy yes, even though I penned around eight news source: Tiktok, your grandparents, or literary pieces for the publication, I still get shivers every time I think about writing one), media outlets? If you answered all but the and went to places I never thought I would go to (just perks of being in a publication). last, the good news for you! News outlets It was just a road I am glad I was able to are slanted and biased. Allow me to show take—and now I’m down to my last stop. you the real deal. I am closing my Spectre journey with After two long years of haunting for this feature article—leaving a message to the golden laurel, the Balay Kalinungan myself and you as well, dear reader. It’s Scream Kweens silenced the crowd with been a long ride, but the world still has a their chilly performance during the first- lot more to offer. ever ANIMOlympics held at the university grounds from March 13, 2020 to March 29, 83 2022. The comeback is greater than the setback. Although COVID-19 still exists beyond hybrid education and relaxed mask mandates, another viral outbreak persists to threaten public health—this time in the form of painful skin rashes and lesioned sores. No, Taylor. We did not get lost in translation. We did not ask for too much. The Philippines Transportation System is not a masterpiece—they tore it all up. We experience it all too well. The ‘h’ in activism stands for hiding. Six Filipino woodpushers are set to take kings and add another feather to their caps in the first-ever FIDE Online Chess Olympiad from July 22 to August 30. ______________________________________ It doesn’t make sense, does it? Everything before this paragraph was lifted from some of the articles I’ve published in The Spectrum since my first year. I was tested for my ability to write in my mother tongue

Freudian \\ Slip of Unbecoming! words by Krizzia Ricci T. Nepomuceno photos by Keilah N. Baldomar 84

I don’t want people to remember me from Worse comes to worst, however; with the Personals a sappy story. insane amount of pressure to be on top, I started to crumble, feeling that the best that Would be a lame, pathetic excuse if I didn’t I could do was third—then I made excuses: recognize myself as a closeted clout-chaser. from “fifth is my safest bet” to “I cannot do As hard as it is to admit, deep inside I want this anymore.” to make everyone cry with a Pulitzer-worthy autobiography. But that’s just not me. At the ripe age of nine, I learned how to give up on a dream, on a vision, on the I mean, I am not someone who enjoys talking essence of Jimmy Neutron. about my life. Add to that the lack of spice to Wesley even constitute a feature-worthy tabloid shot, which is ironic when you think about my carnal Validation is always set at a high price and itch to be validated by other people. But of I gambled my life savings in exchange for a course, you didn’t hear it from me. high influx of praise. It would become even worse when I treaded into new adventures So as I sit in front of my computer, pink and and opportunities. white keyboard blinking with each pressed letter, my mind trails to one question: How November 2011. My first national chess should people remember me? tournament—I had only been officially part Jimmy of my school’s varsity team for six months yet I was already in Batangas representing My elementary weekends were spent the region in the National Age Group Chess watching Filipino-dubbed cartoon reruns Championship. And on the seat beside on local TV. I’d watch CatDog, Rocko, and me was the ninth youngest grandmaster, Courage for hours on end. But there’s one I Wesley So, right in the flesh. cherished most—Jimmy Neutron. I was eleven when I decided I wanted to be I wanted to be him. And I was. him. I fantasized about playing international boards and becoming a grandmaster—a I was that kid who topped the honor real hot intellectual. At this point, you might roll without much prompting from other be seeing a recurring theme, but not for people. I just desired to always be on top, me, blue headband and Kipling sling bag to be intelligent; obsessed with the ideals across my body. of becoming Jimmy. Golden medals later, everyone talked—about how smart and That summer, I clinched a bronze medal ingenious I was—and to a degree, I liked to in the Philippine National Games after listen to them talk. defeating a now-FIDE Master. A year later, I was featured on the morning television But these days, when I want to make for my achievements. I had claimed every myself feel bad, I start to wonder if seven individual gold NOPSSCEA medal since I years old was when I peaked. started up until just a few months ago. My coach said I had insane potential—a scoring I vividly remember dropping a rank in machine. second grade. My parents claimed that “it was just a grade point difference, she just 2014, I thought about stopping. Whatever lacks extracurricular classes,” to save face. validation it gave in lieu of my academic But I don’t think that was the case. failures hurt more than thrice its benefits. 85

I hated chess just as much as I did studying. At fourteen I quit training, and in time, my skills deteriorated. I remember my coach asking me how I got so dull after blundering a winning game. Sylvia Ninth grade was the worst. I had just learned how to solve a Rubik’s cube—peaking at 45 seconds speed in not even a month. It was a pain seeing other schoolmates beat my time but I reassured myself that they just had better cubes. The prompt writes itself between these sentences and it’s becoming very obvious what I want to tell, but I could never find a way to say it. So I learned poetry from those who understood me. And maybe it was just sheer awe or obscene deification, but I wanted to be the Sylvia Plath of our generation—lines riddled with how I could die a noble death. But wanting is different from being. I would disguise my feelings through reaching imageries and unfiltered rage. I kept on writing to no end, liquor feeding my senses numb in exchange for existentialism, dread, and a sure number of broken glass inside my bedside table. I never thought I would make it past 18. Krizzia Freudian slip. Noun. True feelings. It is an error in writing caused by breaking the ego’s defenses. Now, it’s almost the end of moratorium week and it’s obvious that I’m not too 86

worried about the exams yet—that bit will come soon. I’ll start to question why I didn’t study better in third grade. Why I’m not in an international school gaining credits for chess. Why I’m not a biopic favorite. Why I hold so much failed potential. I mean, it wasn’t this difficult before. Maybe I’m just dumb after all. Just recently, someone told me that intuitive thinkers work to feed their god complex. Maybe everything has just been a main character arc for me, feeling like I owe people something when in fact I’m far from it. Maybe I’m just delusional. Though one thing is for sure: who I am now is an amalgamation of all the people I wanted to be. I don’t burn myself to the core but I can still get high grades. I still rise above varsity chess like I used to. I can still write without the internal craving for pain. But now, I’m reconsidering hitting the delete button on everything I’ve said so far. I don’t want to look back on how pathetic and pitiful I seemed. But I’m only 22 and I think there’s still a long way to go, more people I can be. At this moment, I just want to be the Krizzia people can interpret the way they want to: may it be a cautionary tale, an inspiration, or a downright fib I’ve crafted for their enjoyment. 87

The Makings of an Overthinker words by Hana Patricia Raj E. Hautea photos by Keilah N. Baldomar 88

Personals Quick heads up: This will not necessarily 89 be a good write-up. But it will be personal. When I write articles, I always do so with my target audience in mind, but this one— it’s for me. What makes a good person? Is it trusting that you’ll go to Heaven after you die? I have always strived to become better, whether that’s being a better daughter, sister, partner, friend, editor—whatever. I thought I had a general idea of what defines a good person, but as I grew older, I realized the lines have blurred and I’m no longer confident about which traits are good and which aren’t. I used to think stubbornness was to be avoided until I realized it led to a lack of assertiveness. I used to think optimism was the obvious choice until I realized not everyone has pure intentions and that nothing will ever work the way you want it to. I used to think overthinking and overpreparation were characteristics to be proud of until I found I couldn’t sleep at night because of all the “what ifs” running through my head. Reading used to shape my vision of what a good person is. The main characters in fiction novels embodied who I should aim to be—what with their quick wit and endearing clumsiness—

and the (admittedly scripted) reactions of the characters around them solidified that those were the ideal traits. And then social media came around. That made it all the more difficult to decipher what made a good person because everyone and their mothers had counterarguments and differing opinions and different reactions and I honestly had no idea anymore. Of course, I can’t explore this topic without mentioning one of the biggest influences on my moral compass: my family. I was raised in a loving, supportive Born Again Christian family and grew up actively involved in our small church community, from playing instruments in the worship team to teaching kids during the Sunday school sessions. Thus, my mindset has always been “If I obey the Lord, I am a good person”. But just like every single person alive, I am a sinner. Every day I have to ask for forgiveness and I know all I need is in the Bible but I haven’t even finished reading the Bible and do I have to finish reading the Bible to understand what a good Christian is in the eyes of the Lord? On that note, what constitutes a bad person then? I am losing my mind. Honestly, if it weren’t for the genuine feedback from the people around me, I would have significantly less confidence that I am going down the right path. See, when it’s me evaluating myself, I tend to question my judgment and not give myself as much credit as I should. But time and time again, I have received both big and small affirmations that my words have inspired some and my actions have impacted others. I hold on to those precious moments—they make me feel like I’m serving my purpose in this world. As a BS Psychology major, I can say that psychology does not dictate how to be a good person, but it helps me understand 90

how to become better— What a Hufflepuff thing to say. in all aspects of the word. It has taught me I’m no ethics professor or philosophical that there is no shame in genius, but here’s my hot take on the feeling emotions as they question I asked in the first line. What are all valid, that there makes us good people does not lie in our are certain conditions personality traits, how much we’ve donated, that have been proven or how many people we’ve helped in our to help a person grow lifetime. The answer lies in our genuine (“unconditional positive effort to be better. As long as we have that regard” is my new innate desire—that want—to improve and favorite term), and that become a good person, then we’re already I was wrong all along. halfway there. There really is no “good” or “bad” trait. They are 91 all simply human traits. Another thing about me is that I recently realized that I live in fear of when that “Great Tragedy” will strike my life. I have lived in relative contentment without any life-changing catastrophes that threw an ax at my belief system. I am scared for when it arrives. Side note: I’m currently rewatching this series called “The Good Place” and I feel it’s influenced this whole ethical trainwreck of thoughts. I highly recommend watching it. What all this means to say is that I just want to be a good person. That would be the highest compliment I could ever hope to receive. I have high ambitions for my future, like publishing my own research paper, presenting at an international conference, and getting a graduate degree abroad. Yet for all my great aspirations in life, as long as I am kind to those around me, I am content. As long as, somehow, my existence on Earth can positively affect someone else’s life, then I can die happy.

Unexpected Snapshots of Opportunity words by Keilah N. Baldomar photos by Hana Patricia Raj E. Hautea Writing is difficult, but here I am, doing my best as always. Never would I have expected to write something for any of The Spectrum’s magazines, just as I had not expected to be a member of an esteemed school publication. I was not expecting that I’d be able to stay in the publication until my graduation, but hey, I am still here, beating deadlines as usual—now as one of the section editors. You see, my student life has been full of “wow, I didn’t expect I’d be doing this” moments. My initial plan when I first entered college was to live my life as a normal student who either studies really well and goes home right after her last class, or goes to the field and plays frisbee. Joining a club or an organization did not come to mind until one of my seniors in high school reached out to me. She invited me to apply for their publication (it’s a requirement for members to encourage other students to join). As usual, my initial reaction was to decline the invitation because I just didn’t want to get involved in something unknown. I just didn’t believe that I was capable of joining and I still wanted to have a normal college life. I 92

Personals don’t know what happened but I was convinced by her. So, I tried applying for the position of a photojournalist in The Spectrum. During the process of the application, I hesitated a lot because first, I was nervous; second, I didn’t know what I was doing; and third, it was a lot of work. This was until I heard that if I got in, I’d be granted a scholarship. Because I wanted to lessen my family’s financial burden, that became my motivation. Don’t get me wrong, I like photojournalism— it changed my whole life. It’s just that I didn’t believe that I was good enough to be in that field, so it was the scholarship that pushed me to get in. Okay, my life was full of unexpected scenarios and opportunities. Not just in college, though, because the first big surprise of my life happened in high school when I became a real student photojournalist by accident. So, it was a Friday afternoon when I decided to change my P.E. shirt to an extra shirt I brought in case I got all sweaty. It was my brother’s shirt that read “Editorial Cartoonist” at the back. It was a souvenir from when he joined the Regional Schools Press Conference during his time in high school. I was standing outside of the computer laboratory because you could see the whole field in that location pretty well. While I was enjoying looking at my classmates playing on the field, someone tapped my shoulders. I can’t remember who it was, but I clearly remembered that he asked me to go inside the computer lab because the school president wanted to ask me something. When I entered the lab, there were a lot of students sitting while writing and drawing—it was a tryout for campus journalism. I was scared at first because I thought that I violated a rule or did something wrong. The school president asked me if I was an editorial cartoonist because of my shirt. I immediately answered that I was not. He then asked why I had the shirt; I just said that it was my brother’s. Then he asked if I was by chance into journalism. I answered that I once joined photojournalism in 93

elementary and won tenth place. His eyes a choir because for one, I am not a singer. widened and he immediately asked me to But lo and behold, I got in! It was a nerve- try out for photojournalism since no student wracking experience, but at the same time, registered for it. I was shocked and scared it was awesome. Thanks to that experience, because I was not ready at all and I did not I gained confidence in my singing skills have my own camera. But to make the long and throughout my high school life, I was story short, I was once again convinced performing in front of the student body. and that was how I became a student photojournalist. I entered high school without expecting that I’d be able to do a lot of things. The In high school, I was never really a ‘Singer Keilah’ era ended when I stumbled planner—I just went with the flow. I upon this unique sport that I fell in love sometimes hesitate, but in the end, I always with instantly, and until now, am still in love try to conform to the things the majority do. with—ultimate frisbee. Funny enough, I was Take for example, when I was in 7th grade also convinced by others to play this sport. and most of my classmates tried out for I was 100% sure that I could not play this Glee Club. It was the Glee Club and never sport because I’m asthmatic, but thanks to in my life did I think I’d be trying out for my friends who pushed me to play, I was able to improve and enjoy playing. When I try to look back at the old times, I always get amazed that I was able to do the things that I did not expect I’d be able to do. Amidst all the confusion, doubts, and chaos, I managed to survive—and I believe it was all part of God’s plan for me. 94

I have always let other people decide for me, but it turns out that they had seen the potential in me before I did, which I am very grateful for. I thought I was the “go with the flow” person until I realized everything that happened to me and everything I achieved was because I took the first leap. I was the one who decided to enter a publication; I was the one who decided to submit an application form; I was the one who faced the section editors; I was the one who tried out for the Glee Club, frisbee, and photojournalism. I guess the future is not really that scary— with God, nothing is impossible. 95

Losing Myself in College: A Thread words by Drexel John N. Amit photos by Phoebe Daidoji Q. Jabonete I always thought that college was a one- way path towards success; that if I finally had a hold of that diploma, all things would follow through. Maybe I was too optimistic to have this mindset. In my defense, I was a promising high school valedictorian with a scholarship on his sleeve and a plan in his mind, ready to traverse a new path out of his comfort zone. 96

Personals But maybe I was wrong. It is the uncertainty of the situation, and in the not by having things in their void that is the inevitable future. proper place that we secure #LostOnForeignGrounds our destination. Because, believe it or not, we will always I always knew I was set to study in be confronted by adversities Bacolod, a twelve-hour trip from home via along the way. And none of us land, sea, and air. Used to the spacious, have the clairvoyant powers to dust-polluted, and laterite-soiled grounds actually foresee what obstacles of Rio Tuba in Palawan, it was a new world would come and how we would to me. The buildings are taller, the places approach them. are more populated, and the people have a distinct soothing accent. In the end, despite having the comfort of being fully prepared At the same time, everything felt familiar: for my college life—a leap that the curse words I would hear similar to those I expected would usher me exclaimed by my late great-grandmother towards a valley of independence whenever someone popped a firecracker and solace—I got lost. Lost in during New Year or the hospitality of our the unfamiliarity of the place, in relatives whenever we would visit, despite being unaware of the intensity or kind of kinship that we had. It was like a home far away from home. Despite the City of Smiles welcoming me with its brightest beams, however, I still got lost. Not with the crazy layout of the barangays or the confusing routes of the jeepneys, but with the adjustments that I had to make. I had to interact with new people, master a different language, and immerse myself in another culture. It was difficult, but I eventually found my footing. With that, freshman year passed like a blur with accomplishments I could have only imagined: I survived two semesters of chemical engineering, got accepted into the university’s official student media corps after two tries, and even won several in-campus quiz shows and public speaking contests. However, everything ceased, including my stability. 97

#LostInIsolation The year 2020 seemed promising to me; well, not until the virus named Ms. Rona went gallivanting around the world, stopping it in its axis. The succeeding semesters after our freshman year are crucial for us, chemical engineering students, as we have a qualifying exam to take and a retention policy to abide by. With a virus on the loose, we were confronted, not only by our challenging program, but also by the shift in learning modality. Again, I got lost. The classes that I took during the pandemic were either heavy on calculations or laboratory experiments. Imagine trying to learn how to solve differential equations without the step-by-step process, or answering a report on how to extract caffeine from tea leaves without proper laboratory exposure. We were like chickens with our heads cut off. Miraculously, we made it work. We slumped ourselves on “movie marathons” of recorded lectures and a spree of online tests and activities. Eventually, we got used to the situation. With that, our sophomore and junior years became an unbearable learn- from-home experience, albeit it was easier to pass the subjects. Still, I witnessed the odds work in my favor: I was able to clinch several wins in the College Press Conference and Awards 2020, I got to be a finalist for the coveted Corps d’Elite 2021 award, and I only had two more semesters of chemical engineering to go. #LostInTheFuture Come the first semester of senior year, the pandemic situation finally subsided to the point that in-person classes were allowed by the university. 98

Despite the excitement of going back to problems during his idle time; not the same normalcy, there was this sense of skepticism curious genius who would delve into the as we got accustomed to the online setup. depths of the cosmos trying to find scientific Not only that, but the economy was not discoveries; not the same wordsmith who in its best state with inflation peaking and can sew words both written and orally and prices spiking. Nonetheless, things pushed turn them to a garment of brilliance and through with face-to-face and online inspiration. It is like I am not my old self learning modes alternating weekly. anymore. Fast forward to the present: there is only I lost myself in college. But I also found one semester left and even less than two myself. months until graduation. From time to time since the start of the semester, I could not A self that can adapt to the changes that help but reminisce and look back on my life confront him. A self that can stand on his before and through college. own two feet and can keep it together amidst adversities. A self that, although Evidently, a lot has changed. I am not the apprehensive of the unpredictable, can same whiz kid who enjoyed solving math step up and face the future. 99