I am just like everyone else— afraid and timid. But, I slowly realized that many opportunities were wasted and would be pointless if I constantly constrained myself to what I call "a haven." I am not getting any younger and time is fleeting. How can I ever find my expertise if I won't explore beyond my comfort zone? I am Daniela Sien, an introvert. I lived my life dwelling only on what comforts me. I used to think so low of myself, uncertain of what I am really good at. I never had an outstanding award from elementary to college. I never even raise my hand to recite or volunteer on any activities that requires speaking in front of people. I tried to apply on different companies but whenever they call me for an initial interview, I wouldn't answer them because I was too afraid picking up calls. I always plan to just work alone, do freelancing, video editing stuff, but things won't always go according to plan. Financial challenges showed up and I have no other choice but to really push myself. My mom, the only provider in our household, got suspended at work, and aside from feeding ourselves, we have seven dogs to take care of. They are my motivation to leave my comfort zone. I took up the TESDA training offered by Saint Mark Institute to enhance my communication skills. As soon as I finished the training, I tried to apply in a BPO company. Fortunately, I passed the series of interviews and exams. Ironically, the person who was once afraid to pick up calls, applied and got accepted on a job that prohibits call avoidance. There is a season for everything and a time for every purpose under the heaven. Let’s keep striving because great things take time. Uncover the enthusiastic personality within you because those fulfilling life events never come from comfort zones. We may not be successful yet— but, let's strive to be one.

Let me start by congratulating a job well done. We all accomplished major milestones of our lives. We accomplished all the requirements and examinations no matter how challenging they might be. Indeed, our hard work had culminated on this occasion. This tells us that we are now prepared to take the knowledge we have gained and apply what we have learned to the pursuit of our future endeavors. We all know that the road ahead of us may be rough, the journey may be tough, and the experience may be bitter. There will come a time where others may question you, doubt you, or reject you, and that's fine. Don't feel bad. Instead, let us use this rejection as encouragement. Don't forget that you are making a big change and that's a really huge deal. The only Failure is not trying. So go out there, break your habits, try new things, and embrace the unexpected! As Muhammad Ali once said, "Even the Greatest was once a Beginner. Don't be afraid to take that first step." So to all the Graduates of Saint Mark, today we will close the door to the past, open the door to the future, and embrace our new beginning. Always remember, Let your Future Begins Today!

I'm Jasmine M. Fernandez currently taking BSIT. Nagstart ako magtraining with Sir Vern as our trainer in Programming JAVA when I was about to start college at hindi pa ganoon ako kaalam sa pagprogram. Sa training na ito itinuro ang fundamentals hanggang sa advance at sa loob ng 1 month training namin, masasabi kong malaki ang naging tulong nito sa pag-aaral ko dahil mas lumawak ang kaalaman ko patungkol sa programming at nagkaroon pa ako ng ideya sa field na gusto kong pasukin. Sa training na ito ay masasabi kong "I have killed two birds with one stone" dahil natuto na ako sa training, mayroon pa akong allowance.

I am Anna Marie, my dream is to finish my studies and I know no one will help me but myself. After I graduated high school, I knew to myself that I can’t afford to go to College. So, I decided to go abroad at the age of 19 and told myself that I will soon finish my studies. But the world didn’t always align with our plans. After I returned to the Philippines, I still have my faith that I will make it. Saint Mark is the one who gave me this opportunity and helped me accomplished my dream. Even though I was pregnant that time and have a small business to handle, I was able to study. I took up Programming JAVA and Contact Center Services. I want to make it in the ICT Industry. And I know this will help me get a better job when I come back to abroad or even when I stay for good here in the Philippines. Remember: When you feel like quitting, remember why you started.