It was a good 2019!

By: Kayla Tejero

 

Thank you all for reading my column from last month! As we ring in the New Year, I’d like to say that the year 2019 was truly a great year for me, as I achieved so much. But, my top achievement of all was to write in this new column of the award-winning VIA TIMES Newsmagazine. I received great reviews and praises from a lot of people. I really enjoy writing this column because I can connect with other young people in the community, and help them voice out their dreams and aspirations in life. Though we all share the similarities of being Filipino, differences still exist. These differences are refl ected in our socio-economic status, family dynamics, and general upbringing. Nevertheless, we are all young Fil- Ams, who share different views. There is nothing wrong with that. Recognizing our differences allows us to see the individuality that comes out from each and everyone of us. So, let’s learn more about the dreams of young Fil-Ams in this month feature. If you’d like to be featured, please email me at tejerokayla@gmail.com.

Sarina Laya says: “I want to be able to inform my own people and other American students about our culture. I want others to feel comfortable with who they are, and the things they are passionate about regardless of what other people say or what culture has taught them.”

Tina Sison says: “As a Filipino American college student, it would be great to become more involved in our Filipino association/ club here on campus. I want to take any opportunity to become recognized on campus as a Filipino American for whatever accomplishment or being a Filipina.”

Mariel Malit says: “My goals for college are to maintain good grades, participate in volunteer work, and be involved in my school’s community. I’m interested in working in the medical field after graduation, and while I’m in my undergrad, I hope to discover which career in healthcare would suit me best.”

Adam Valera says: As a Filipino American student, I mainly want to accomplish getting my Master’s degree for occupational therapy at UIC. After graduation, my plan is to stay in Chicago and work towards my other goal of making the U.S Olympic team for archery.”

Sarina Laya, Freshman
BS Mathematics
Indiana Wesleyan University

Tina Sison, Sophomore
BS Biological Sciences
Northern Illinois University

Mariel Malit, Freshman
BS Nursing
Aurora University

Adam Valera, Sophomore
BS Clinical Psychology
Joliet Junior College