We’ve heard our parents or elders say that education is a wealth they can give that won’t be stolen from us. It has become a driving force for students, especially those from underserved communities or backgrounds, to achieve their dreams and acquire a diploma.
Besides learning technical knowledge about specific fields of education, students acquire valuable life lessons inside and outside the four corners of the classroom. It helped shape them into well-rounded individuals who can spread social good to others to share in fostering inclusivity and empowering opportunities for everyone to meet their goals.
Spreading social good can come in different ways, such as small acts of kindness like words of encouragement and sharing whatever blessings we have. For Allyssa Lila, a BS Accountancy graduate from St. Paul’s School of Professional Studies in Leyte and SM Foundation Inc. scholar, her journey of giving back starts with finding the most suitable environment for her to grow.
“As a professional, as a graduate, I’m trying to explore the corporate world, trying to fit a job that really fits my abilities,” she said.
Once settled, Lila promises to give back to her community by boosting the local economy by lending her talents and knowledge to her employers to create better business opportunities for her fellow Filipinos.
In the meantime, Jessica Nicole Dela Cruz, a BS in Computer Science specializing in Machine Learning graduate from the National University Manila, wants to pay it forward by learning how to communicate well and teaching the next generation what she knows and how they can maximize their potential.
As another SMFI scholar, Dela Cruz had the opportunity to study in a partner school. Now, she works for SM and already handles interns in their department. Although she struggles with speaking to others, she tries her best to become a role model and inspiration to others.
“Kung ano man ‘yung naituro sa akin ng Foundation, ng mga magulang ko, at ng National University, ‘yun ‘yung sinusubukan kong i-impart doon sa mga intern ko. Pati sa mga taong nakaka-usap ko, ‘yung mga lumalapit na nanghihingi ng advice, nanghihingi ng tulong (Whatever the Foundation, my parents, and the National University taught me, that’s what I try to impart to my interns. Even with the people I talk to, those who approach asking for advice, asking for help),” she said.
Dela Cruz also shared that she refers friends struggling with their studies to SMFI so they can also experience what it’s like to study without worrying about fees and just focus on learning.
“What I appreciate the most about SM Foundation is their ability to foresee the success of their students. I think they have a fantastic way of identifying the students who will work hard to succeed. That’s a beautiful thing about it, knowing who needs this most and knowing who will strive so hard to get to that life-changing success,” said Ma. Teresita P. Medado, the current President of Asia Pacific College.
The SM Foundation’s Scholarship Program, established in 1993, has provided financial and holistic support to over 8,000 college and technical-vocational scholars, empowering them to pursue their academic aspirations and contribute to the betterment of their families.
