GROWING THROUGH PRIVATION

I was born and raised in San Miguel, Bulacan, a peaceful town where everyday life felt simple and comforting. My childhood was filled with small adventures that shaped how I look at the world today. I grew up in a family that valued respect, faith, and hard work. Every morning, nagigising ako sa tilaok ng mga manok at tunog ng sasakyan that are passing to our house. I enjoyed spending time outside, sa paglalaro ng taguan, tumbang preso and many more with friends in our barangay. We often used old slippers and tin cans for our games, making the fun feel more authentic. Umaakyat pa kami sa matataas na puno noon, namimitas ng prutas, and raced each other in wide empty fields. I loved going to the palengke with my parents dahil palagi akong nagpapabili ng laruan doon. Our community was close-knit, and neighbors treated each other like family. At home, I learned responsibility through simple chores. Even at a young age, I grew fond of computers and gadgets, which sparked my curiosity. Looking back, ang mga karanasan ko sa Bulacan ang siyang tumulong sakin to build the discipline and curiosity I still carry today.

My teenage years became a turning point in my life as I slowly began discovering my strengths, weaknesses, and ambitions. Senior high school was filled with friendships, laughter, and memorable experiences. However, at the age of 15, the COVID-19 pandemic suddenly changed everything. Schools closed, and online classes became the new normal. I struggled with slow internet and lack of face-to-face interaction, but this experience taught me resilience and adaptability. Despite isolation, I stayed connected with friends through video calls, social media, and online games. I discovered new hobbies and learned the importance of self-care and balance. Looking back, both the happy memories and challenging moments during these years prepared me to face life's uncertainties with courage and hope.

Today, I am a second-year BSIT student at the University of the East Manila. College life introduced me to new challenges and opportunities, especially in coding and system-related subjects. There are moments of self-doubt and times when I feel overwhelmed, but I choose to move forward with dedication and effort. Group activities taught me the value of teamwork and communication, while the library became my place for focus and growth. Despite stress and deadlines, I continue to push myself. College has helped me develop critical thinking, time management, and confidence. As I move forward, I carry the values from my childhood and teenage years, believing that each step brings me closer to the future I dream of building.