LC Business Education

From a former Dean’s Lister

I still remember my first day in college. I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I was nervous, a bit excited, and completely unsure of how I’d get through the years ahead. At that time, making it to the Dean’s List wasn’t even on my mind. It felt like something so far off, something reserved for students who always seemed like they had everything figured out. I didn’t see myself as one of them.

But somehow, I made it and not just once. Seeing my name there brought a kind of quiet joy that’s hard to explain. Because it’s not just about getting good grades. Behind that title are days when I pushed myself to stay up just a little longer to finish a paper, nights when I questioned if I was doing enough, and mornings when I had to drag myself to class despite being mentally and physically exhausted.

And the truth is, I didn’t do it alone. I’m incredibly grateful for the people who helped me along the way. My family has always been my biggest source of strength. Their support, whether in words, actions, or even just their silent prayers, kept me going when I felt like giving up. I knew they were rooting for me even on the days when I wasn’t at my best.

I’m thankful to my professors too. Some of them really challenged me in ways I didn’t expect. There were lessons that stuck with me not because they were easy, but because they forced me to grow. I appreciate their patience and their push, even when it felt a little uncomfortable.

And then there are my friends.  Those random group chats about deadlines, shared notes, last-minute reviews before exams, and even the simple “kaya na” messages that always came at just the right time. We all had our own struggles, but somehow we lifted each other up, and that meant a lot more than we probably realized at the time.

Of course, I can’t leave out my faith. There were moments when things got so overwhelming, I honestly didn’t know what to do. But somehow, every time I felt like I was about to break, I was reminded to pause, breathe, and trust. That alone helped me more than I can ever explain.

For me, being on the Dean’s List isn’t just a recognition of academic performance. It’s a reminder of how much can be achieved through persistence, support, and grace. It’s not about being the smartest in the room, but about staying committed and being grateful for every step forward, even the hard ones.

To anyone who’s still in the middle of their own journey: I know it can get tough. But just keep showing up. You might surprise yourself with how far you can go. And when you do, take a moment to look back not just to celebrate, but to say thank you to those who helped you along the way.