Pursuing education despite the odds

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These SM scholar alumni are now steps closer to their dreams

In the Philippines, many students face uncertain paths to higher education, especially those from vulnerable populations. Often, the pressing need to support their families leads them to consider skipping college altogether and entering the workforce straight out of high school.

This could have been the story of Prince Mangahas and Queenie Alfonso–SM scholar alumni from Pampanga, whose lives took a turn through their scholarship opportunity.

Determined no matter the odds

Prince's struggling household nearly crushed his college dreams. He contemplated vocational courses until finding the SM scholarship at Angeles University.

"I felt I needed to step up for the family and be the provider," he said, contemplating enrolling in a short vocational course instead of attending college. “I was really determined to get an education no matter the odds because as a kuya, gusto ko sanang sabay sabay kaming aangat,” he shared.

As he recalled his struggles, Prince said: “Hindi ako pinanghinaan ng loob kasi I am an SM Scholar. SM had it all for me. All I had to do was immerse myself in my studies. While the struggle was real, I was not battling alone. SM was there.”U

Education transformed Teacher Prince's life, becoming his gateway to uplift himself and his family. Motivated by this profound impact, he extends his influence beyond the classroom - taking on leadership roles, tutoring for extra income, and creating video lessons nationwide during the pandemic as a DepEd TV Math Teacher-Broadcaster. 

Prince sees education as a force for social good. "Through education, one becomes aware of the prevailing issues," he says. He envisions himself teaching math and using his story to inspire students to dream big and contribute to a better society. "Education plants a seed in someone's heart," he adds, "nourish it until it bears the fruit of compassion."

Following Tatang’s footsteps

Like Prince, Kapampangan SM scholar Queenie faced financial hurdles for college, with her parents' income insufficient for her and her sibling's tuition. 

Determined to break the poverty cycle, Queenie seized the SM scholarship opportunity. She maximized this by working part-time at the SM Store during breaks, allowing her to concentrate on her Management Accounting studies while gaining early corporate exposure. 

Armed with her skills after graduation, Queenie commenced her accounting career at The SM Store.

"Tatang once dreamed of fostering employment opportunities. Now, SM Supermalls and SM Stores are everywhere, transforming dreams into reality through job opportunities," she shared. "Inspired by Tatang's vision, I also aspire to establish a business that generates jobs, with God's grace. As he said, ‘’You have to have a dream big or small, then plan very well, work hard, and be very determined to achieve your goal.’