External Vice President Carmela Brion of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Australia – NSW Chapter (UPAAA-NSW) got virtually up-close and personal with Mikaela Andrea Bonador, who graduated from UP with a degree in BS Elementary Education (Magna Cum Laude).
A Magna Cum Laude is an honor awarded to graduating students who achieved a general weighted average of 1.45 to 1.74 (based on the grading system that uses the scale 1 (highest mark) to 5 (failed)).
Mikaela, a UPAAA-NSW scholar, is now living her dream as a primary school teacher in the Philippines—inspiring and nurturing the young minds of the leaders of tomorrow.
- What are people’s usual reaction when they learn that you’re a Magna Cum Laude from UP?
The only time I really ‘talked’ about it was when I posted my graduation photos on Facebook. Everyone was just so sweet and supportive. To be honest, I’m still a bit uncomfortable talking about it in person because I get awkward with compliments. I’m grateful that it doesn’t come up often in conversations. On the rare times that it does, people usually say, “Wow!”, then I laugh awkwardly and change the topic.
- Did you have a social life when you were still a student? Describe.
When I was in high school, I have a big group of friends whom I regularly hang out with. We watch movie marathons together or just catch up. In uni, I didn’t have a lot of friends because I was busy studying and travelling to and from school every day. I guess I am an introvert and a homebody. I like it that way.
- Favorite subject?
History. I am now inclined to look beyond what I’m reading and think of the broader historical and cultural events that affected its writing.
- Most unforgettable moment when you were studying at UP?
When I was a freshman, I attended an event about martial law. Professors, historians, and martial law survivors were there. They debunked all the false information that I used to think were facts. It was a turning point in my young adult life. It was the spark that first awakened my political awareness.
- Your reaction when you’ve learned that you have been selected by UPAAA-NSW as a scholar?
It was unexpected. I initially thought I never got in because it’s been a year since I applied for it. When I confirmed the news, I was so happy I went straight to the campus chapel to pray. I was filled with gratitude. The scholarship came at the time I needed it most. It was an answered prayer.
- Describe UPCAT in one word.
Long.
(Note: The UP College Admission Test, or UPCAT, is a five-hour exam that covers mathematics, science, language proficiency, and reading comprehension. Admission in UP is known to be very competitive, with 70,000 high school students taking the UPCAT, and only 11,000 are admitted for undergraduate degrees. UP’s admission rate is about 18%. -Ed)
- What are you most passionate about?
Teaching and learning, so I am grateful I became a teacher. I am also passionate about life. I appreciate each day and take each moment as it comes.
- Describe one change that you can do, and you will do, to make the Philippines a better country.
My individual effort may not mean much against systemic problems, but I will do my part in raising a generation that hopefully will become a part of the solution. I will live by our university motto of “Honor and Excellence”. I will be a good teacher by being generous with knowledge, encouragement, and love. I will uplift my students, believe in them, and do my best to be a positive influence in their lives. I will help them cultivate courage and integrity, so they can be the champions of truth and justice. Since 2008, UPAAA-NSW’s Scholarship Grant Project has already produced a number of scholars from UP campuses in Manila, Mindanao, Baguio, Diliman, Visayas, and Los Baños.
UPAAA-NSW is one of the oldest UP alumni chapters officially recognised outside the Philippines and one of the pioneer Filipino organisations in NSW. For details, please visit http://upaaa-nsw.org/projects/