Dear Kuya,

Fast-paced, draining, yet memorable. If I could choose three words to accurately describe my April, it would be those. April flew by in the blink of an eye—so many things happened that I lost track of time. I started April by having my last midterms exam as a senior high school student. I would say I did well as I always do in the exams despite the distractions during reviews. Just when I thought that I'm gonna get past the 'midterms cortisol', when suddenly I learned that I didn't make it to UP. It was saddening but not surprising. What made it more disappointing was that I'm 0.3 points close to qualify for my chosen campus. Though I could appeal, but only on non quota courses. I realized UP isn't really for me. I've envisioned what my life would be like while studying in UP with a course not aligned to my passion—it would probably suck. During college applications, I've promised to myself to choose my dream course over my dream university. I would say April commenced my 'anxious months season' as I will be expecting more CET results in the next months. As I move closer to college, I am more assured that Nursing is really my dream (except when I remember that I'll have to do enema and someone has to do it for me during nursing school... just kidding.)

It is scorchingly-hot in Manila, and everytime I walk to school, I can feel the blood vessels melting in my nose. Consequently, there have been week-long and counting suspensions of face-to-face classes. For me, it was a blessing in disguise as I was able to come home to Bulacan. Coming home to Bulacan means reconnecting with nature, the dogs, eating a lot, and being with my family. For me, life feels lighter when surrounded by loved ones. Though incomplete, the sense of belongingness and care is always at its peak when with them. Seeing your family is a poignant reminder of what you are fighting for—the reason to keep up with the callous ride of life.

The amount of stress I had this month was about to get into my nerves when luckily, my friends and I hung out to celebrate my friend's 18th birthday party. We went to Sta. Maria, Bulacan, and yes, I was permitted. We swam, had a lot of fun, and ate a lot. The whole experience was more than enough to suffice my longing for happiness after a series of stressful weeks. Whenever I recall the moments we had as friends, I am reminded that it is never too late to enjoy life. I am thankful that in my early years, I've learned how to maintain work-life balance. I will certainly live this balance throughout my life.

-Jeremiah