“God will not look you over for medals, degrees or diplomas but for scars.” ― Elbert Hubbard

What you’re seeing in the picture above is the product of all the sleepless nights, the times I had to work harder than I should to avoid the possibility of failing a subject, the criticisms I endured, the countless readings as to learn more about a certain topic, the ups and downs of teamwork, disappointments, expectations, triumphs and all the sacrifices I made in my four years of college. 

Even before thesis term rolled around, I always said to myself that doing this undergraduate requirement without a partner would be one tough challenge. Many times did I ever think twice about my decision upon hearing those horror stories about students who went solo and went on to fail the thesis proposal stage more than thrice as the panelists expected more of them. Nevertheless, I overcame those fears and doubts and instead just did my best in my thesis. the road may have been rocky but it was worth it in the end. My defense was a success, my grade was good enough for my work to be archived in the University library and my legacy as a Communication Arts student has been cemented forever. 

Meanwhile, I have yet to hold my breath until June 1 to see if I officially qualify for honorable mention because I met the CGPA requirement (> 3.000 for ID 111 students) plus I have never failed a subject in my entire stay. I haven’t announced whether I’ll be graduating with honors on social media because nothing’s official until the school registrar posts the graduates list on the said date. Either way, I’m satisfied with my grades for my last term ever. Don’t expect anything = good results.

I’d like to thank everyone who supported me all throughout the making of my screenplay: my wonderful thesis mentor Sir Doy, CAM coursemates, friends, parents, family, professors and the Almighty God himself. I would not have completed my thesis in just four months without your guidance. 

One last thing: hours before my flight, I had a short conversation with Direk Joey as I left my hardbound copy of my work inside the Comm Department. He asked me about my thesis defense and I replied that the panelists chuckled at my screenplay. The advice I got from him inspired me so much because I could tell from his aura that he has faith in my capabilities. He said, “Nothing can stop you, even your panelists, from doing what you love. Just continue developing your gift.” 

Word.