Three months ago, former Candle Pen writer Dean Yu and previous editor-in-chief Jasmine Ngo graduated Grade 12 as the English and Chinese valedictorian respectively for S.Y. 2022-2023, while Ngo graduated as the English salutatorian. This marks the fourth time in a row that a Candle Pen member has graduated as the valedictorian of their batch.
These two Warriors and their fellow graduates persevered despite the numerous challenges brought upon them by the pandemic. They strived to do their best from the start until the end, and their efforts paid off, for on June 13, 2023, Yu and Ngo graduated with their fellow schoolmates, which included 12 other Candle Pen members, with smiles on their faces.
The event was bittersweet. While it meant that the graduates would transition to college and pursue their dream courses and eventually their careers, it would also mean parting from friends and classmates. However, that did not dampen their spirits as they displayed wonderful performances throughout the occasion.
During his valedictory speech, Yu stated that he was filled with immense pride to be a part of Makati Hope Christian School, a community that guided and shaped him for 14 years. He expressed his gratitude to God, his parents, teachers, and classmates, who all played significant roles in being the person he is today. He admitted that the pandemic was filled with countless struggles and uncertainties, where their batch was thrust into a new reality, forcing them to adapt. However, instead of using this as an excuse, they emerged stronger, more determined, and equipped with an unparalleled set of skills. Yu ended his speech with a simple note that they must seize the future and embrace the challenges that lie ahead of them.
During Ngo’s speech, she shared that the Warriors’ memories as a batch came in many forms, but it was the people who were there with them that made them unforgettable. She extended her gratitude to God; the administrators, academic heads, teachers, and staff of Makati Hope; her parents and siblings; and her batchmates. She stated that Makati Hope had become their home for most of their lives, thanking her educators for seeing their potential and opening them to opportunities, such as introducing them to student-led organizations like Candle Pen. She concluded her speech by congratulating the Warriors and expressing that it wasn’t a goodbye but simply a see you again.
Recently, Candle Pen has hosted an interview with Yu and Ngo, and here are their valuable answers that may help students pursue academic excellence.
Q. Who/What motivated you to aim for valedictorian?
Yu: To be honest, I did not expect to be the valedictorian of my batch at all; instead, I was striving for salutatorian. During Grades 9-11, I could not partake in co-curricular activities (conferences, seminars, and workshops) since I was too focused on academics as well as extra-curricular activities (community service and sports) due to the ongoing pandemic. I have only been participating in international and local online math competitions. Despite this, I made up a lot in my last year because of the overwhelming support of my parents. They did not only want all of my efforts to go to waste but also believed that I could still be a candidate for valedictorian.
Q. What extracurricular activities were you involved in at MHCS? Outside of school?
Yu: Being part of the badminton varsity is one of the most notable extra-curricular activities in my stay at MHCS. I have been on the team since Grade 4, wherein I not only won numerous medals for the school but also made new friends from various grades and developed essential values such as discipline, perseverance, and teamwork along the way. Additionally, I have also been part of another badminton team namely, William and William Gabuelo Badminton Academy. Outside of school, I play other sports casually like basketball and volleyball, and in my spare time, I bake or cook meals for my family and volunteer in projects organized by my local church.
Q. What advice can you give to students struggling with their studies?
Yu: One piece of advice that I cannot stress enough is to learn how to manage your time effectively to prevent procrastination. I know it sounds cliché, however, I truly believe that there is always a time for everything–if done right. Students, especially high school students, should be able to avoid distractions, determine priorities, and most importantly, take breaks from time to time, to name a few.
Q. Do you have any advice for anyone striving for valedictorian/salutatorian?
Ngo: All I can say is that if you’re striving to be valedictorian/salutatorian just for the title, it’s not worth the sleepless nights. Instead of working your head off studying, go and make memories with your batchmates and teachers. Once you go to college, you won’t have that close of a bond anymore. If your reason for wanting to achieve that is different, focus on your current homework or test and do your best. Daydreaming and admiring that award won’t do you any good.
Q. What’s your favorite memory of your entire stay at MHCS?
Yu: Definitely, Grade 8 Intramurals. This week-long event had been nothing but an exhibition of tight competition, coupled with salubrious cheering and occasional jeering from opposing batches. As an underdog representing my batch for men’s singles in badminton, I had to battle higher grades who were much taller and had more experience. My chest would be pounding while my heart would be racing because of the constant pressure, however, in the end, I was able to win second place. Overall, I love the atmosphere and just being able to compete in my favorite sport. On the other hand, being part of the audience, I could sense the intensity of the players and their drive to win. Athletic movement throughout the court, whistles piercing the air, and applause filling the gymnasium were pieces of evidence of the heightened school spirit.
Q. What’s the biggest challenge you faced while at MHCS? How did you get through it?
Ngo: I think the biggest challenge was being diagnosed with depression and anxiety. The road to recovery wasn’t easy, but with the support of my family, teachers, and classmates, I was able to get by and prioritize my mental health. I made sure to not push myself too much, get the proper amount of sleep and nutrition, and engage in activities that I find enjoyable.
Q. Do you have any regrets throughout your stay at MHCS?
Ngo: I think one of my regrets throughout my stay was not taking advantage of the services and resources available at MHCS. I wish that I built a deeper connection with my teachers as they are the mentors that you would need to grow.
Q. What are your future/current plans for college and life?
Yu: First and foremost, I want to complete my college degree, which is a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. I know it sounds difficult, which is why I will be studying hard for it. Furthermore, I also desire to participate in conferences, seminars, workshops, and the like so that I can obtain hands-on experience in my field of work. Moreover, I hope to get a stable job to not only support myself but also my family. With regards to life, I want to further improve my hobbies and maybe, just maybe, discover the love of my life.
Q. Do you have a message for the lower batches looking up to you?
Yu: Learning is not only confined to the four corners and walls of a classroom. Even as you leave the boundaries of this educational institution, your ability to adapt and learn will continue to be tested. The world is ever-changing and it is immensely vital to not only embrace change but also remain hungry for knowledge. Make that unwavering commitment to never stop learning and never stop growing, no matter how tough the circumstances may be.
Candle Pen proudly congratulates our Warriors for reaching another milestone, gladly stating that this is not just the end of one journey but the beginning of another. To God be the glory!
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