Sometime last month, I received a phone call from my erstwhile student in college (he got my number from his college days contemporary whom I have contact with) reconnecting with me after some 25 years or so.
Listening to his familiar voice with refreshed recollection, my mind sauntered back to late 1990’s when I was a college Dean of Student Affairs – and he was the president of the College Student Council.
Capping our phone conversation, he invited me to attend the 8th birthday celebration of his son at his (yes, his own) newly opened almost one-hectare V-Farm, Garden & Rest House in Morong, Rizal. I acceded without hesitation.
To be precise, my former college disciple is already a highly-accomplished lawyer, Atty. Christian “Kit” Villasis, now 45 years old. He’s now as well a College of Law Associate Dean in a creditable university in Manila. “Erstwhile I was the Dean and he was a student leader. Now, after 25 years, he is the Dean and myself having professionally transformed into being a writer (speechwriter, columnist) and book author,” I muttered to myself.
At his V-Farm, I met his wife, two bubbly grade school kids, his elder sister (who happened to be my former student in Theology 29 years ago), and his septuagenarian father who’s also a lawyer.
I was regaled by the refreshing grandeur of his V-Farm – lush garden(s) with green resplendent trees, an exhilarating overlooking view deck, buoyant playground, cozy accommodations, and a lot more.
But, more than the rejuvenating surroundings, what impressed me most was finding out Atty. Kit’s present sterling “cap feathers” of success. Apart from his being an accomplished litigator and Law Associate Dean, he is the Managing Partner of Villasis & Partners law firm and founder/director of Villasis Law Center (VLC), one of the top ten review centers in the country. The 1st, 5th, and 12th and 15th placers in the 2023 Bar Examinations were products of his review center.
A lecturer and resource speaker for the Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) program for lawyers, Atty. Kit teaches law in several prestigious law schools, including University of Santo Tomas (UST), Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU), Far Eastern University (FEU), University of the East (UE), New Era University (NEU), University of Manila (UM), Jose Rizal University (JRU), San Sebastian College-Recoletos (SSC-R), etc.
Other “feathers to his cap” are: Chairman of Experts’ Committee in Remedial Law at U.P. Law Center, International and Domestic Arbitrator, Certified Data protection Officer, and as Witness in U.S. Federal Court.
Atty. Kit also erstwhile served Acting Assistant Secretary (ASec) & Chief of Staff of HUDCC, as well as vice president of Social Housing Finance Corporation (SFFC).
Huh, I was quite overwhelmed, if dazed, with his string of accomplishments – and yet at 45 at that! I reckon, whilst in college during my time, he already prefigured his shining success: a consistent Dean’s Lister, active member of the school’s Debating Team, responsible Student Leader and Presidential Awardee for Student Leadership and Good Governance.
Interestingly so, I tried asking Atty. Kit what’s his formula for success, and he impressively answered:
“In essence, the combination of hard work, making opportunities and having a sense of purpose forms a powerful synergy for success. Hard work lays the foundation; as the saying goes, ‘everything is hard before it is easy’. Creating opportunities enables growth and innovation, and purpose provides a guiding compass for meaningful achievements.”
Profoundly said. Thence, what about his advice to law students, bar reviewees, and aspiring lawyers?
“Success in the legal profession is not just about reaching the destination; it's about embracing the entire journey. Each class you attend, every case you study and each challenge you overcome contributes to your growth. Never forget that hard work is indispensable. Understand the subjects deeply, stay organized in your studies, and prioritize effectively. The legal field is demanding, and setbacks are inevitable. Cultivate resilience to bounce back from challenges and learn from every experience. Also, be prepared to embrace change and continuously refine your skills. Discover your passion and align your career choices with what truly motivates and inspires you. A purpose-driven career is more likely to lead to sustained success and satisfaction,” he explained.
Having treaded the long and hard journey to success, Atty. Kit leaves a parting counsel:
“The legal profession is a marathon and NOT a sprint. Pace yourself, stay true to your values and savor the journey. Remember, the best way to predict your future is to create it.”