Written by: Leah I. Alibutdan
My name is Leah I. Alibutdan, 18 years old, a first-year college student who is currently pursuing a teaching profession at the Philippine Normal University-Visayas. Ever since I was a child, I have always been fond of learning new things and as the passage of life continues to unfold, I’ve learned to value the importance of education more profoundly in light of its remarkable impact, such as opening new and bigger opportunities to people. But as life happens, reality will take a toll. What can a dedicated soul and an optimist mind do when your biggest enemy is financial difficulty and a responsibility to one’s family?
I am the eldest child of the family and my mom is currently a solo parent as my father died in 2022. At an early age, I was already exposed to the reality that as a family, my parents can only afford our basic necessities – food on the table three times a day and just enough funds to send us to high school. In other words, we belong to the grassroots level of the community – the unprivileged. I tried selling dried fish in the market at the age of 9, constantly helping my parents, especially every Sunday and during the summer months, I try my best to apply for a job in the market to help ease my mom’s financial burden. And thankfully, with the grace showered by God, I was able to finish my senior high school journey with flying colors and a humble heart.
As college life started to approach, I was beginning to get anxious because I was completely aware that the financial needs would double or triple the fees compared back in high school. I got myself a summer job and saved up for my future studies. Thankfully, with the blessing of God, I was given
an opportunity to get this scholarship from the Rudy and Fe Romanillos Scholarship, and I am beyond grateful for the blessings imparted.
The restlessness of being a college student cannot be compared to one’s high school journey; on the other hand, the institution I am currently enrolled in is pushing students to their fullest potential as a future nurturer of learners. Behind the university’s promising name were students who carry enormous responsibility and pressure. However, this is the path that I chose, so I must stand steadfast with all my might to conquer every term and every academic year. But behind all the pressures, I am very thankful that this organization supports me financially, which eases my worries in the financial aspect as a college student.
This scholarship organization is truly a big help to me. It does not only ease my family’s financial burden but it also fosters a sense of sanity that continuously reassures me that I will have less worry when it comes to finances and makes me focus more on my academic endeavors and personal growth. I am grateful and honored that, among all the applicants, I was chosen to be part of the family – a true blessing indeed!
My biggest and warmest gratitude to the people behind the Rudy and Fe Romanillos Scholarship.
God bless us all, and may we continue to foster this organization!
