Interview with the College of Science Batch 2024 Valedictorian, Mr. Vinz Ymmanuelle Tatad

Coverage by: Agatha Rei Gomez and Tobey Fhar Isaac Calayo

What awards/recognition did you receive, how do you hope it inspires others, and what values do you wish to share with current and future Thomasian scientists?

Among the awards that I received, graduating with Summa Cum Laude was the [most] notable one for me.

It’s already been given that the BS Chemistry and other programs in the CoS were difficult but I was surprised that achieving such [a] feat was possible. I realized that with the right motivation, support, and perseverance, it is possible to excel even in the most challenging fields.

Given that you did not get to experience an onsite SHS graduation due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, how does it feel to finally walk up on stage, and is it anything you have expected? Could you also share some of the coping strategies you used during the pandemic, and how these helped you stay focused on your goals?

It was everything I had hoped for and more, as it symbolized not only the culmination of our hard work but also a return to a sense of normalcy and celebration that we had all missed.

During the pandemic, one key approach that helped me to be focused is to establish a daily routine; however, this should not be taken religiously. Feel free to be flexible, take some time for yourself, and explore new avenues for yourself. The pandemic for me was a momentous time for my personal growth and self-exploration.

How was college life for you? What advice can you give to those struggling or facing hurdles in their college life?

College life for me was a bit of a “mix and match.” At first, I was eager to be involved in many activities, but I quickly realized that this approach was too overwhelming for me. It took some time, but I eventually found a balance that allowed me to focus on my studies while still engaging in extracurricular activities.

You can be one thing but never everything. It’s okay to experiment to discover what you want, but always remember your north star — the thing that led you on this path in the first place. This helped me [during] the most challenging times of my college life and perhaps this also may help you.