My family isn’t a rich one. Often, our household income was just enough to sustain our needs. Both members of Couples for Christ, my father works as a messenger and my mother is a housewife. I know they both want their children to be able to finish their studies and have a bright future. 

Being in the community for more than 19 years, it was my parents who asked me to apply for an ANCOP scholarship. I passed the exam and was interviewed right away. I didn’t just secure a full scholarship but also got the privilege to study in an exclusive school. 

I never imagined myself studying in De La Salle - College of St. Benilde. Through my ANCOP scholarship, I was able to finish my degree in Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Computer Applications with Specialization in Business Analytics. After all the hard work, I graduated with an honorable mention. 

It’s been 2 years since I joined Globe Telecom, a leading telecommunications company in the Philippines, as a data scientist. I’m also finishing my master’s degree in Science in Information Technology at De La Salle University. I’m so happy to have been able to benefit from these opportunities. I know this started with ANCOP and that first step toward my dreams. 

To ANCOP, I want to say thank you for the opportunity that had been given to me. I can say I’m blessed to have been chosen. On behalf of my family, I want to express gratitude for this grace that had been shared with us. 

To my fellow scholars, keep dreaming and never settle for less. Remember that the strongest storms produce the brightest rainbows. Being a scholar is one of the things you can take pride in. Keep fighting for your dreams! (Yvonne Grace Dolorosa)