As graduation in June approaches, university students in the Philippines are envisioning their futures while grappling with both anxiety and hope about entering the workforce. In a recent discussion session with working professionals, students held a roundtable to talk with role-models and openly discussed their worries and aspirations.

The participants were fourth-year students from Carlos Hilado Memorial State University in Negros Occidental. They gathered at the Silay Art Space in Silay City, where they engaged in a dialogue with Janna, a city government employee, about careers and life after graduation.

Balancing Career and Family: Janna's Story

Janna, who works at the Silay City Office, is currently in her second year as a working professional. After graduating from a prestigious private university in the province with a degree in psychology, she initially pursued certifications related to her field while job hunting.

Reflecting on that time, she told the students, "I felt like I had 'no choice.' I believed it was important to adopt a mindset of fulfilling my responsibilities and supporting my family first." The students listened attentively, nodding in agreement.

Although she successfully obtained her qualifications, the COVID-19 pandemic became a turning point. She eventually shifted away from a psychology-focused career and chose her current role in public service, making use of her strong writing skills. "At first, it was different from what I had studied, but I am very satisfied with my job," she said, reflecting on her work at city hall.

Since then, Jana has married and gave birth to a baby boy last December. Students were particularly interested in how she balances work and childcare.

"I am very grateful for the support of my family and relatives. While I work, my in-laws take care of my child, and together with my husband, we support our household. Thanks to my family's support, I can balance both my career and my role as a mother," she explained, emphasizing the importance of family support.

Students Envision Their Future, Hold onto Faith

In the latter half of the discussion, students shared their own concerns about the future. Having experienced online learning during the pandemic, many reflected that in-person classes are essential for quality education.

Now in their final year, they spoke about their current feelings. Glyzelle shared, "I regretted that I didn't study well during my first years. But that became a turning point?I'm now more motivated to work hard on my internship and my current year." While some students aim to become teachers, many are still undecided about their career paths.

Despite their uncertainties, they remain hopeful. Jessie shared, "I am still not sure about a specific career. I might take education units, but I also want to try working in radio. I will just leave it to the will of God because I believe God's plan is Greater than ours."

Calvin, another participant, added, "We Filipinos are religious. Even when we feel uncertain or lost about our future, we pray that God has a plan for us. We will continue to work hard, but we don't stress too much about the future."

Discovering True Strengths to Overcome Life's Challenges

In closing, Janna offered advice to the students: "I want all of you to discover your true strengths. Once you understand what your strengths are, you will gain the internal drive and determination to face life's challenges."

The roundtable at the Silay Art Space in Silay City brought together local students, sharing hopes and concerns after graduation. Despite uncertainties, they all carried faith to explore their future.

By Calvin Villarias, Dessey Villarma, Gierlin Flora, Glyzelle Jemilla, Jessie Rosal, Regina Gan, Yoshikaze Kawakami