The Last Kiss of Summer

By: Kayla Tejero

 

Happy August! I write this article flying back from Texas where I just performed at the Fiesta Ko Sa Texas 2026. It was such a wonderful event celebrating Filipino culture, togetherness, and the showcase of talents and beauty. I had so much fun eating Filipino food such as Mang Inasal, supporting local businesses, and of course, performing on stage. It was truly a fun event celebrating with loved ones! August is known as the dog days of summer, bringing in the hottest and humid weeks of the summer. While I love the hot heat of Houston, it feels so good to be back in Chicago. There’s nothing more exciting than walking along the Lake Shore Drive, catching rays at Oak Street beach, or cruising on a yacht in the playpen of Chicago. I feel like August is the Sunday of summer. It’s fun but the kind of fun where you don’t want to stay outside longer. During this time, summer comes to an end and this month is our last chance to soak up the last of it before we shift the season of Autumn. Although I love the summer, I cannot wait for chilly nights, wearing warm and chunky sweaters, and eating sweet treats such as apple pie. Also, I am Getting excited about my travels in September. This time of year also marks the back to school season. Let us hear from our four features for this month!
Liam says, “As a fresh high school graduate who is heading into their first year of college my goal is to begin working on my post secondary education alongside with promoting diversity and sharing Asian culture with those that may be unfamiliar with it. Through Loyola University’s Quinlan School of Business, I will be pursuing a double major of finance and international business while potentially pursuing my masters post graduation. Alongside studying for my undergraduate degrees I also strive to encourage diversity by spreading Asian culture and heritage while strengthening the identity of Asian Americans in those who may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable with their culture.”

Mariah says, “Growing up as a young Asian American woman, I was inspired by the strength I saw in my family and in so many hardworking Filipino people. Their resilience motivates me to pursue a career in the medical field, where I can give back by helping others with compassion and kindness. My goal is to make a positive impact on every life!”
Paolo says,”As a Filipino American college student, I hope to create films that capture the beauty, humor, and complexity of the Filipino American experience. Growing up, I rarely saw stories that reflected my community, and I want to help change that by telling deeply personal stories that speak to universal
human experiences. By using the tools of the digital age, I hope to use social media to expand Fil-Am representation and inspire others to tell their own stories.”
Joy says, “My goal is to improve my patient’s overall health by improving their oral health. I aspire for my patients to feel informed, educated and empowered
through comprehensive oral healthcare.”

Liam,Freshman
Loyola University Chicago
BS Finance and
International Business

Mariah, Junior
South Plains College
Licensed Vocational
Nursing

Paolo Santiago, Senior
BA Film
University of Texas
Rio Grande Valley

Joy, Graduate
Doctor of Dental Surgery
University of Texas
School of Dentistry