A L U MNI
SAMUEL F. MACAGBA III
Bachelor of Arts in Humanities with Professional Certificate in Development Education, 2009
Having caring teachers in my growing years who have nurtured me inspired me to do the same for other students who have similar or even challenging experiences at home. The school has been my haven and sanctuary. I cannot see my work life thrive in any other place. I am grateful that at a very young age I found my “why,” and it was very clear to me that I wish to make a difference in the school, one child at a time. There are many great memories I built in UA&P. One of the things that is vivid to me is my participation in the vibrant student activities. I remember running for the position of President for the Student Executive Board and going through a failure of election. Because of that experience, I realized that while I see myself as a leader, as an aspiring educator, the real and the most important challenge was to create engaged and participative leaders in each student. As such, I developed a burning desire to pursue a career in education, which empowers young people to be engaged leaders in the community. My UA&P education helped me acknowledge the social dimension of my work. UA&P’s curriculum has such a strong emphasis on citizenship that it became so embedded in my teaching philosophy: To empower individuals to develop love for country that can bring change to their community through education. It has been my driving force even in my current responsibility as a principal. I believe that allowing each stakeholder in my community to contribute brings out empowered individuals ready
to serve society. While it seems challenging, I am able to positively transmit my advocacy and principles to the members of my school community. I am grateful to God for the gift of leadership since being a principal helps me actualize my deep convictions. There are many areas and opportunities by which one can contribute to the community. Mine arise every day whenever I enter the school, greet my students, guide my teachers, and interact with my stakeholders. I firmly believe that I can contribute to our country and the world, one classroom and one child at a time. I have met many young people who want to be teachers but are scared or worried to take this career path because of various reasons. I would like to borrow the words my University President, Fr. Roberto C. Yap, SJ, shared with our community, “Go boldly to the frontiers!” Now, more than ever, teachers are needed to improve our community. Great professionals start from an empowering vision of a teacher. You are needed. Be bold to be a teacher and make a daily commitment to go forth and respond to the greatest needs of our country through the empowering instrument of education.
DECEMBER 2019
UNIVERSITAS
17
