Carrie Gubalane
Application Essay
“SM North lang po—estudyante,” I utter in the moving vehicle, extending a fifty-peso bill to the driver. Each time these words leave my mouth, a part of me yearns for the recognition of my student discount. I always wear my ID, just in case. To many, it may seem trivial, dismissed as ‘just a few coins.’ But to me, these coins hold value beyond their worth to others, accumulating slowly but surely into a significant amount as time passes.
My experiences at QueSci, much like the spare change I collect, build up into a substantial journey. Initially, the seemingly never-ending pile of assignments and performance tasks seemed too bothersome, adding to the increasing weight of responsibilities from clubs and the student government. Meetings occurred more frequently, and I became overwhelmed, often needing to go home late and cope with the stress of commuting. Coming home to my mother stressing about bills and financial matters certainly did not help my situation. As I compared my problems with hers, I just felt silly.
How could I be so consumed in my little world, worrying about my perfect grades, when heavier matters haunt my family?
It was my father who gave the assistance I needed during these times, may it be financially or emotionally. However, the situation still fell too heavily on me. It no longer felt like spare change; it was like an entire vault of challenges thrust upon me.
Are all of these really worth it?
During my lowest moments, I contemplated giving up and settling for minimal effort. Just as I was resigning to a less ambitious path, the clinking of coins in my pocket and a spark of passion reignited within me. Reflecting on my four years at this school and the experiences gained, I realized I could endure pushing myself further. I now know my limits. I now know how these challenges continue to shape me into a better individual.
Soon, these heavy coins in my pocket will turn into more valuable bills that feel lighter to carry around. Some day, I will hopefully be able to alleviate others from burdens I am similarly experiencing. Just as the small coins saved from student discounts accumulate into something meaningful, so do the challenges and efforts in my academic and personal life.
Exit Essay – Farewell
Two years ago, I wrote about coins—how something so small could add up to something real and meaningful in my life. I shared the story of handing a small bill to a driver, hoping for a student discount, and how those few coins felt signifi cant to me, even if they seemed trivial to others. Back then, I didn’t realize the scholarship I was applying for would become one of those “coins”—steady, reliable, and quietly shaping my journey over time.
For the past two school years, it has been a constant source of support. It didn’t arrive with fanfare or solve every problem at once. Instead, it came steadily—monthly—easing everyday concerns on days fi lled with deadlines, leadership meetings, and long jeepney rides home.
The challenges didn’t disappear. There were still late nights fi nishing assignments, preparing for student council events, and managing responsibilities during long daily commutes. Moments of overwhelm came too, with stress, comparisons, and quiet guilt piling up. Yet ANI made them more manageable—a reminder that a few people believed in me and my potential.
ANI also reshaped how I viewed my journey. The fi nancial help let me keep striving and choose effort over giving up, even when quitting felt easier. The guidance, encouragement, and simple messages from our Titos and Tita in that small group chat strengthened my resolve. The community here became a place where I could be myself, stay motivated, and feel truly supported. I held onto the idea I wrote about before: small, consistent things grow into something truly meaningful.
Looking back now, I see just how much I’ve grown. What started as getting through daily challenges turned into chasing real opportunities—like leading student council initiatives and tackling tough STEM problems in late-night study sessions. It all paid off with the recognition, awards, and medals I earned.
But those wins weren’t just mine; my family, friends, the ANI community, and my faith in our Creator made them possible. As my high school chapter closes, I’m fi lled with deep gratitude and a real sense of responsibility. This scholarship gave me the focus and drive to excel. It showed me how even small support can lead to big changes.
One day, I hope to become a lawyer, standing up for justice and fairness. I want to give back—helping other students through their leadership roles, tough academics, or big dreams, just as this did for me. For now, I’m heading into college with clearer purpose.
Even as I graduate, I’ll carry the school’s motto—Scientia et Virtus—as I pursue excellence into the vast unknown of the future.
And I know that I will be eternally grateful to ANI for the role that it has played in this journey.
