My Journey as a Student at St. Dominic College of Asia

Introduction

Every student embarks on a unique journey through the educational system, a path filled with experiences that shape their character, values, and aspirations. My educational journey has been a remarkable one, characterized by personal growth, academic challenges, and unforgettable moments. Over four years at St. Dominic College of Asia, I have evolved from a wide-eyed freshman to a confident graduate, gaining not only knowledge but also invaluable life lessons. This essay about my journey as a student will delve into the the challenges faced, the milestones achieved, and the dreams that continue to drive me.

Personal Growth and Maturation

The transition from high school to college marked a significant turning point in my life. It was a time of self-discovery and growth. College life, as I soon realized, was not a leisurely stroll in the park but more akin to navigating the challenges of Jurassic Park. The journey was bound to have its ups and downs, and I was prepared to face them head-on. In hindsight, those challenges were essential for my personal development.

As a wide-eyed freshman, I entered St. Dominic College of Asia with a sense of excitement and trepidation. The transition from the structured environment of high school to the newfound independence of college was a profound experience. It was here that I learned to manage my time efficiently, balance academic commitments with social interactions, and make important decisions independently.

The challenges I encountered during my college journey forced me to mature as an adult. Early on, I realized the importance of time management. Balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal life became a daily juggling act. This experience taught me responsibility in a way that no classroom lecture ever could. I learned that success required discipline and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

Moreover, the ups and downs of college life taught me resilience. There were times when academic pressures seemed insurmountable, and personal challenges tested my resolve. However, each obstacle I faced became an opportunity for growth. I learned to adapt to different situations, fostering a sense of independence that would serve me well in the future.

In essence, college was a crucible where I transformed from an uncertain freshman to a confident graduate. The journey was not always easy, but it was filled with invaluable life lessons. I emerged from this chapter of my life not only with academic knowledge but also with a profound sense of personal growth and maturation.

Academic Pursuits and Achievements

One of the pivotal moments in my college journey was my involvement in a Feasibility Study about Elyn Enterprise, a food-selling business specializing in an innovative product, Ampy Ala Cone – an ice cream cone with the unique flavor of ampalaya (bitter gourd). This project was no walk in the park; it demanded countless hours of research, sleepless nights, and the dedication of my thesis group. The process was challenging, but it was also immensely rewarding.

The Feasibility Study course in Business Administration was an eye-opener. It tested our ability to create a viable product. Our extensive research and recommendations led us to conclude that Ampy Ala Cone was feasible, with the potential to capture a significant market share, provided we maintained a reasonable pricing strategy. This project not only honed our analytical skills but also offered practical insights into the business world.

The company ELYN Enterprise's product, Ampy Ala Cone, was not just any ice cream cone; it had unique health benefits. This bitter-tasting ice cream cone was designed to maintain blood sugar levels, lower bad cholesterol levels, cleanse the liver, promote glowing skin and lustrous hair, and even cure hangovers. Moreover, the product was positioned to aid in weight loss, boosting the immune system. It underwent a complex production process, with special attention to reducing its bitter taste to a tolerable level. The goal was to offer customers a distinctive and innovative product with health benefits, appealing to children, adults, and the health-conscious.

Our research and feasibility study were more than just an academic exercise; they were a real-world application of the knowledge we had gained throughout our college journey. The project not only challenged us academically but also instilled in us a sense of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Experiences Beyond the Classroom

Beyond academics, my college journey was enriched by various extracurricular activities. One standout experience was my internship, which provided a glimpse into the real-world workings of my future career. It taught me essential skills such as patience, hard work, and dedication. Balancing work, personal life, and academics was challenging, but it prepared me for the demands of the professional world.

My internship experience was invaluable in bridging the gap between theory and practice. It exposed me to the intricacies of my chosen field, allowing me to apply what I had learned in the classroom to real-world situations. This hands-on experience was a crucial step in preparing me for the workforce. It taught me the importance of practical skills and interpersonal relationships in a professional setting.

Another highlight of my college journey was the international tour undertaken by my fellow business administration students. Visiting Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand allowed us to present our feasibility study, explore diverse cultures, and savor a myriad of cuisines. These experiences broadened our horizons, fostering an appreciation for global perspectives and the importance of cultural diversity.

In Vietnam, we had the opportunity to present our feasibility study and were fortunate to win the best feasibility project award. Cambodia provided a brief but impactful visit, allowing us to rest and reflect on our journey. Finally, Thailand was a whirlwind of exploration, from trying different foods and exploring night markets to witnessing crocodile and elephant shows. These experiences taught us about the richness of global cultures and the importance of open-mindedness in our interconnected world.

In my third year, I also participated in a business competition organized by JA Philippines. Running a company during this competition was no easy feat, with financial and product uniqueness challenges to overcome. Despite the difficulties, our team received recognition, a testament to the skills and knowledge we had acquired during our college journey.

Conclusion

My journey as a student at St. Dominic College of Asia has been a transformative and enriching experience. It has been a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and academic achievements. Through challenges and triumphs, I have evolved into a more responsible, resilient, and confident individual.

As I look forward to the future, I am filled with a sense of purpose and determination. My education has laid the foundation for my dreams – to secure a stable job, establish a successful business, own a comfortable home, and achieve financial security. My journey as a student has not only provided me with knowledge but also instilled in me a sense of pride and purpose, as I aspire to contribute to society and make my family and supporters proud.

In conclusion, my college journey has been a rollercoaster ride of experiences, lessons, and growth. It has prepared me to face the challenges of the real world with confidence and determination. St. Dominic College of Asia has not only provided me with an education but also with the tools to pursue my dreams and make a positive impact on the world.