Dear Kuya,

This month is something I want to describe as my 'transition phase' from being a highschool student to becoming a college freshman. I couldn't have been more proud of myself realizing I got into two city-funded universities in Manila. Moreover, despite hectic graduation rehearsal schedules, I still manage to make use of this month to at least rewind and introspect. I've finished 17 seasons of Grey's Anatomy, a season of "Emily in Paris", and other shows. I've watched too much of Geys to the point that I always complicate a simple headache to a subarachnoid hematoma or elevated ICP. Just kidding. Another highlight of this month was when I won the '360 Icon of the Night' crown at our graduation ball—which is obviously a very unexpected one. How ironic it is that the event I barely want to attend would turn into a special and memorable night. I guess, just like what my mantra says, "it has to happen for a reason".

Given that my classes are finally over, I get to do general cleaning at our home with Mommy, and I get to stay in Bulacan, and then back home in Manila for enrollment and others. This month has been an eye-opener to me on how important it is to take care of your health.  I now understand why they don't allow medical workers to treat their loved ones—it makes one panic and worry so much that tendencies of it clouding your judgment is highly likely. I really can't bear it seeing my loved ones getting sick. I might appear brave and strong, but deep inside, I don't know what to do, and I'm scared. That's why I took nursing basically to embrace my fears. After all, it is my family who are the reason why I took nursing. Not because I was asked nor forced but because I want to face my fears... and the promising future the nursing profession has abroad.

I'm so happy seeing my friends getting their desired college programs despite knowing that we are going to be in different paths. However, not everyone in my circle is successful in their college applications with some of them taking programs they don't like at all. Despite this, I realized that I am surrounded with people who have dreams and goals in mind. It makes me so happy to be part of their journey towards their aspirations. We might not be in the same school or program anymore, but the learnings I've had from them is something that I'll forever cherish. I agree with the analogy about us being a mosaic of different people we've met in our lifetime—that every piece of that mosaic is one person we've once shared love and goals in life with.

-Jeremiah