Million Reasons to be Thankful!

By: Kayla Tejero

 

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! This month brings so much excitement from its first day. Of course, the first thing that comes to everyone is the anticipation of one of the most important celebrations – actually my most favorite holiday of all time – Thanksgiving. This is the time of year where the term “diet” is out the window. I love gathering with family, and enjoying ham or turkey, mac and cheese, and a green bean casserole on Thanksgiving Day. To top it off, I like to eat a slice of pumpkin pie. The cool weather outside also brings me to dress up with boots and a knitted top with a stylish pair of jeans. Food and dressing up surely makes Thanksgiving month festive. This time of the year is spent with loved ones. It is also the time to reflect and to remember so many things we are thankful for. I literally meant my title – million reasons to be thankful for this year as there were so many things that caught me by surprise. In my heart, I have kept so many memorable experiences, I lost count on them. Attitude is gratitude, and sometimes we take for granted the little things in life. For the most part, I am grateful to my friends, family for the clothes on my back, roof over my head, and food on my table. I am grateful to be in good health and to have a secure and stable job. For our students, they can find some relief and a break from the demands of student life. For our adults in the working industry, most of us find ourselves off on this holiday (unless you work in healthcare). Let us hear from our individuals already established in their career and from our college students!

Celeste says, “As an Asian American student, I strive to create spaces for myself and my community in the arts- especially representing Filipino American singers/musicians. In these past few years of my time as a student here in Chicago, I have had wonderful opportunities to meet, perform, and connect with artists with like minds, coming from diverse backgrounds. I hope to continue doing so, while also growing in my abilities to eventually release my own music as a singer/songwriter.”

Alyssa says, “As a Filipino American, my goal is to achieve the American Dream by working hard to build a better life for myself, my family, and the future generations. I am inspired by the sacrifices my family has made, and I aim to honor them by creating opportunities and paving the way for others in my community. Moreover, as a Filipino American nurse, I want to contribute to the healthcare setting by advocating for patients, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, and ensuring they feel seen and understood. I am driven by the values of resilience, compassion, and community that are deeply rooted in my culture. I hope to inspire other Filipino American nurses and future generations to pursue their passions boldly, and continue the legacy of compassion, excellence, and strength that defines our heritage.”

Lorii says, “After completing college and advancing through some master’s coursework, I realized that pursuing education was essential to staying ahead in the ever-evolving business world. My passion for driving bottom-line growth in the businesses I support and have built fueled this ambition. Inspired by the Filipino value of education, I have since reached incredible milestones: Owning my matchmaking agency. Authoring and publishing international best-selling books. Hosting two TV talk shows—one focused on business and the other on dating.”

Jackie says, “I love my Filipino culture, I really do but I think there are flaws. For example- growing up, the goal was to make money and be someone big because that’s what’s installed in my brain but I realized now after being out in the working field for 5 years, I don’t want that. I still like making money but the goal is to be happy. I am a Physical Therapist Assistant that travels around for work and I think that’s what keeps me going- now, I get to create memories wherever I go, I appreciate the things that I can learn from each culture I encounter, and most importantly, I live my life not caring what other people think.“

Celeste, Senior

Alyssa, Graduate BS Nursing Chamberlain University

Lorii, Professional Master’s Marketing and Advertising New York University

Jackie, Graduate Associates Physical Therapist Assistant Pima Medical Institute