Proving that struggles are not a hindrance to reaching someone’s aspiration to change their life’s path, a total of 199 students who came from less-fortunate families graduated from their challenging pandemic-time college education, 51 percent of whom finished with flying colors.

The school year 2024-2025 batch of SM Foundation’s 199 college graduates is composed of 8 summa cum laude, 33 magna cum laude, 47 cum laude, and 14 with Academic Distinction, announced during the Presentation of SM Scholar Graduates ceremony at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, on Thursday.

One of those who excelled was Wela Beryl Autor, a native of Eastern Samar who graduated summa cum laude after taking up Bachelor of Science in Education Major in English at Jose Rizal University.

Autor, the eldest among three siblings, is the daughter of a security guard and a housemaid, struggling to make ends meet.

First in our clan to graduate

“I am the first one who will graduate in our clan, that is why my parents inculcated in me to strive harder to finish my studies, as they promised me that they will do their best to achieve that goal, even if it is hard for them, since we are financially challenged,” she said during a video presentation at the said event.

When she graduated valedictorian in High School, she was inspired by her English teacher, which is why she promised herself that she would be as good as her and take English as her major.

Golden opportunity unlocked

When she learned that SM Foundation offers a scholarship program, she checked the page and applied online.

“It was the last day of the application, and it was hard for me to upload my documents because we were just connecting to the WiFi of our neighbor. Since we are in a far-flung area, the Internet keeps lagging. Thanked God it pushed through after several tries. And then after several days, I received an email saying that they would call me. And then when the caller from SM Foundation said that I passed the test and the application process, I already saw the bright light and hope at the end of the tunnel,” she said.

SM Foundation, the social good arm of the SM Group, aims to provide comprehensive educational support to qualified senior high school graduates nationwide.

The scholarship package includes full tuition coverage, monthly stipends, and paid internship opportunities within the SM Group during semester breaks. 

A great help

“The scholarship is such a great help for us because my parents will not have to worry anymore about where to get provisions and allowances for my education. At times that I experienced tiredness during my studies, mas iniisip kong mas pagod pala sila Mama at Papa, that is why I did not fail them,” she said.

Given a chance to talk to the SM Group’s late patriarch, Henry “Tatang” Sy Sr., she said: “I will thank you for your generosity and for fulfilling the dreams of my parents to see me reach my dreams.”

“I am now a proud graduate of the BS Education Major in English. I have the greatest gratitude and respect for the generosity that you have rendered me, and I will not waste that chance and that privilege. And if I already have the means, I will surely pay it forward to others, like you did, Tatang!” according to Autor.

Meanwhile, Carmen Linda Atayde, SM Foundation executive director for Education Programs, said SM Foundation believes that education is not only a path to personal success but also a powerful force for social good.

“It can uplift families, transform communities, and help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. We hope that as you move forward-whether into your careers, further studies, or service to others — you will carry with you the same spirit of compassion and excellence that defines being an SM scholar,” she said.

She told graduates that they are now part of a growing community of over 4,000 scholar graduates who are helping build a better, kinder, and more inclusive Philippines.

“We know that you will continue to shine your light wherever you go, and spread the goodness that this scholarship has sparked within you,” Atayde maintained.

For her part, Debbie Sy, SM Foundation executive director, imparted to the 199 graduates that they have shown strength and courage, overcoming the challenges of the pandemic and proving that determination can triumph over even the most difficult times.