If you asked my younger self what I wanted to be, I’d probably have said a lawyer—or maybe just a kid who could play Counter-Strike and DOTA all day. Becoming a doctor in the Philippines? That wasn’t in my childhood imagination at all.

I grew up in a family that struggled to make ends meet. Jollibee was already a luxury, and my schooling was made possible only because of a relative who sponsored me. Like many kids, I was matigas ang ulo and earned more than my share of hanger marks (kakapalo sa pwet). Still, I’d say my childhood was like any other millennial’s—rebellious, adventurous, and shaped by the discipline of our boomer parents.

High School Days

In high school, I was more focused on gaming than on “life direction.” Counter-Strike, DOTA, Battle Realms—you name it, I played it. I’d even save my lunch money just to squeeze in more hours at the computer shop. Our antics got us in trouble with the school prefect more than once.

Looking back, I can’t say I learned many “life lessons” during those four years. But I have no regrets. I had fun, and at the time, that was enough. My only dream then was simple: to finally be free from school.

Realizations About Being a Student

Funny enough, I only realized the privilege of being a student after I was no longer one. Think about it:

• Occupation: Student
• Experience required: None
• Salary: Around ₱100 per day (back in my time)
• Perks: Free meals at home, free lodging, allowance
• Job description: Study. Just study. Five days a week.

That’s it. And yet, this “occupation” holds the biggest return on investment: the chance to secure your future.

Many students don’t see this. All you really have to do is read, show up, do your homework, and repeat. Books are gateways: you want to be an engineer? Read a book. A lawyer? Read a book. A surgeon? Read a book.

From Student to Parent

Now that my wife and I are expecting our first child, I see things differently. Back then, I only thought about baon and free meals. Now, I think about how my parents worked like horses just to make those things possible.

Parents don’t just provide food and tuition. They carry the invisible weight—bills, work stress, sacrifices, and endless worry—so their children can focus on one thing: studying. And that, I realize, is the real act of love.

So, if you’re a student reading this: appreciate your “occupation.” Believe in yourself, dream big, and don’t give up—because your parents don’t.

And if you’re a parent: kumusta ka na? Keep going. Your sacrifices may not always be seen, but they are building the foundation of your child’s dreams.

Looking back, I now know: being a student was the easiest job I ever had. Being a parent—that’s where the real journey begins.