Ten years, countless television roles, and one thesis defense later—Kapuso star Mikee Quintos has officially added another title to her name: architecture graduate.

The “Encantadia” actress proudly announced the milestone in an Instagram post, where she playfully wrote, “Guess who just got one degree hotter.” But behind the witty caption is a story of perseverance, passion, and purpose.

Balancing stardom and studies

Mikee began her college journey at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in 2014, enrolling in the demanding Bachelor of Science in Architecture program. But as her acting career blossomed—with breakout roles in primetime series and a growing fanbase—Mikee made the tough decision to pause her studies to focus on her showbiz commitments.

“I had to step away from school because the opportunities in acting were too good to pass up,” she previously shared in interviews. “But it was always my dream to go back.”

And go back she did. In between tapings, workshops, and public appearances, Mikee quietly resumed her academic journey. It wasn’t easy juggling scripts with scale models and taping schedules with thesis revisions, but for the multi-talented actress, finishing what she started became a personal mission.

The final stretch

In April 2024, Mikee made headlines when she revealed she had successfully defended her thesis—a significant and often grueling final hurdle for architecture students. With that achievement, she was finally on track to complete her degree requirements.

This June, after a decade of determination, the dream was made real. Donning her toga with the signature UST yellow and white colors, Mikee marched with pride among her fellow Thomasian graduates—proof that no dream is ever too late to pursue.

More than a diploma

Her journey has also inspired countless students and fans who may be taking nontraditional paths in life. “Life doesn’t always move in a straight line,” one follower commented. “Mikee showed us it’s okay to take detours, as long as you keep going.”