However, Mechelle’s college journey was not always rainbows and sunshine. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mechelle faced financial difficulties as she struggled to access learning material and attend online classes. “Isang cellphone lang talaga ang ginagamit naming tatlo ng mga kapatid ko,” she says, remembering her first year in college. “Kahit na umuulan, magbyahe pa (kami) nang 15 minutes every weekdays para lang makapunta sa lugar kung saan yung may signal at maka-attend ng online classes. Kasi ‘yong lugar namin, wala talagang signal,” she added, considering that experience as one of the most challenging and unforgettable moments in her journey. “Kahit nahihirapan kami, gigising kami ng maaga, magbabyahe papunta sa bahay ng kaklase ng kapatid ko (kung saan may signal), at uuwing dapit hapon. Kapag naman nahihirapan ako sa mga subjects, tinutulungan ako ng mga kapatid ko para maintindihan ang mga ‘yon,” said Mechelle. During those times of struggle, she learned to stay calm, practice proper time management, and be positive to overcome these challenges.

Alongside being academically active, Mechelle showcased her leadership skills as she partakes in the College of Education Students’ Organization (CESO) as treasurer.  CESO helped her become a responsible leader, prioritize needs and finances, and learn to manage finances.  “Bilang isang leader; hindi lang dapat ikaw ang naglilead, ikaw din dapat ang unang nagsasagawa nito,” as Mechelle reflects on her learning as a student leader. Despite busy schedules, Mechelle finds ways to balance her academic, personal, and social lives by managing her time wisely and focusing on current and important events. 

As graduation day approaches, Mechelle, molded by the wisdom and experiences granted by MSU-Maguindanao, opens her door to any opportunity that knocks, aiming to share her wisdom. She expressed her sincere gratitude to MSU-Maguindanao, saying “Kapag MSU, taas noo,” and “MSU ang pamantasang kahit saan, pwede mong ipagmalaki.” She views her approaching bachelor’s degree graduation with flying colors to be her crowning achievement in her college career. She also left a message and advice for incoming and current college students: “Be patient; dahil ang impatience ay maglilead lamang sa inyo sa failure. You need to practice time management; ilaan mo ang focus mo sa importanteng bagay.”

With her optimistic approach, endeavor, and unwavering perseverance, Mechelle has cleared her fuzzy path and will graduate this July with Latin honor. As she begins to step on to the next chapter of her life, Mechelle will surely fly to spread her knowledge, driven by her experiences, determination, and optimistic views of life.

KAPAG MSU, TAAS NOO!

Written by:

Antas, Jumairah K.
Sandigan, Hamida O.

Edited by: 

Mr. Reyjan D. Nopasa