The Heart of My High School Years 

Written by Andrea Nicole Pagdonsolan

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    For as long as I can remember, San Roque Catholic School (SRCS) has been a part of my life. Given that my father is an alumni, it would seem that I was always meant to spend my high school years here. Now, as a Grade 12 student, I can think back on my time at SRCS and, with no regrets, feel thankful for all the experiences and lessons I’ve gained throughout the years. 

    During my past years, which included four face to face and two online classes during the pandemic, I created memories that will last a lifetime. The most treasured memories are the friendships I formed along the way. From the very start, I met people who were to become my closest friends and even my other half. These are the people who supported me in the hardest of times, who made school more bearable and enjoyable, and who were always ready to help when I needed them. Honestly, I don’t think I would have made it without them.

    Part of what helped me through the process of growing was the rest of the teachers in SRCS.  They didn’t just teach the subjects in the curriculum, they helped shape my character and pushed me to be better. Their guidance and support were invaluable, and I’ll always be grateful for the way they showed me love, care, and appreciation. They helped me grow, not only academically, but also as a person.

    Perhaps one of the most surprising things about my time at SRCS is how it brought me closer to God. I was never the type to go to church on Sundays or be very vocal about my faith. But because of the school’s emphasis on spiritual growth and values, I found myself becoming more appreciative of the blessings in my life. I’ve learned to be thankful, to recognize the beauty in every moment, and to grow closer to God in ways I never imagined.

    Although the pandemic made some of my high school experience different, I still enjoyed every year I spent here. What stands out the most is my time in Senior High School—those years have been filled with memories I’ll never forget. The laughter, the struggles, the shared stress of exams and assignments—those are the moments I know I’ll look back on when I’m older, smiling at how much we all grew together.

    Of course, it hasn’t always been perfect. There have been times when the school environment felt toxic, and things got tough. But those challenges taught me resilience and strength, lessons that have helped me grow and become more confident in myself.

    As I near graduation, I can honestly say that San Roque Catholic School has played a huge part in shaping who I am today. It’s not just the academic knowledge I’ve gained, but the life lessons that have been just as important. SRCS has taught me the value of true friendship, the importance of faith, and the strength to keep pushing forward even when things get tough. The experiences, both good and bad, have taught me how to face challenges with a positive attitude and how to be more understanding and compassionate towards others. As I move on to the next chapter of my life, I’ll carry the lessons I’ve learned here with me, and I’ll always remember SRCS with gratitude. It’s not just a school, it’s where I grew up, where I found my voice, and where I learned the true meaning of community. I’ll always be proud to call it my alma mater.

Photo Provided by Andrea Nicole Pagdonsolan