"Tesai Pleños is not only accomplished of having a master degree but did it with the highest honor or distinction which is equivalent to Summa Cum Laude in the US".
In a world where aspirations often clash with reality, there are stories that inspire us to pursue our dreams regardless of circumstances. One such story belongs to Tessa Velasquez Pleños-Broadbent, a proud Filipina who has proven that hard work, resilience, and passion can lead to remarkable success—even abroad.
Graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Master of Arts in Education, majoring in Curriculum and Instruction, from Bluefield University, Virginia, USA, Tessa exemplifies the unwavering spirit of Filipino women. Her accomplishment is a powerful testament to women’s empowerment and the triumph of the Filipino spirit on foreign soil.
Tessa’s journey did not begin with accolades. As a child, she faced loneliness and struggled to find her place, as reflected in her poem, "Resilience?" The verses echo the voice of a child grappling with inner conflict—feeling wild and unsatisfied, yet determined to conceal her struggles. As she grew into a teenager, outward appearances suggested she had blossomed, but deep within, a void remained. Adulthood brought hope but also a sense of dismay, as she searched for solace in a world that seemed bent on challenging her spirit.
Yet, despite the struggles, Tessa never allowed despair to define her. Instead, she embraced resilience, pushing past the challenges with unwavering determination. From graduating cum laude in Political Science at the University of the Visayas, Cebu, to conquering academic excellence abroad, Tessa shows that one’s past struggles can be the very fuel needed to soar higher.
Working abroad is not just about financial gains or career advancements; it is about carrying the hopes and dreams of families left behind and proving that Filipinos can thrive anywhere. Tessa’s achievements embody the resilience of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who often battle loneliness, homesickness, and cultural adjustments. Yet, just like her, they find ways to rebuild themselves, learning from setbacks and transforming hardships into opportunities.
In Tessa’s story, we learn that resilience is not the absence of struggles but the courage to face them. She teaches us that dreams do not die when faced with adversity—they grow stronger. As Tessa proudly walks the path of success, she inspires fellow Filipinos to chase their dreams, regardless of where they may be.
To Tessa or Tesai, congratulations on your remarkable achievement! Your story is not just your own but a beacon of hope for all who dare to dream and work hard for it—even in a land far from home.
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