Looking Past the Brick Walls

LOOKING PAST THE BRICK WALLS

Fifteen years may be a short period of time for most adults but for me, this short period of time has changed my customs and beliefs significantly. Ideas were taught, traditions were ingrained and opinions were formed right after I gained consciousness about the things that surround me. However, one event in my life changed who I am, and who I will be.

The life-changing event is my admission at a public school. It is not just an ordinary high school. It is a science high school that has prestige and excellence written all over its legacy.

Having been educated at a Catholic private school, I was sheltered from the vicious realities of life. I was used to spoon feeding and was dependent on the considerations given to students. I admit that I was not truly responsible at the time since I always pass unfinished works. I didn't have any ambition abut my future that would forge the path to success.

That is why I needed a month to adjust myself to the workings of the public science high school.

The effort, thankfully, was given back to me in the form of lessons, lessons that not only focus on academics but also on the core values that are important in our daily lives.

Fifteen years may not be a long period of time, however, that fifteen years contains the four years that have changed the foundation of my beliefs. I may have been sheltered most of my life, but now I am confident in facing the storms of realty and still be the one left standing.

Emmanuel Josef T. Concina

4317 Emilia Street Barangay Palanan

Makati, City

16 years old

Ateneo de Manila University

AB Management Economics

First Year

(A graduate of Manila Science High School)