Come August, roughly 850 to 900 high school graduates start their college education armed with the determination to succeed and scholarship from SM Foundation that hopefully will fulfill their career goals. One of these scholars is Jomari R. Tadeo.
The young student from San Pablo, Isabela, possesses the skills and qualities of the SM Scholars who came before him, sharing common qualifications such as excellence in their secondary education and a fierce dream of a better tomorrow. Among his many achievements, Tadeo has excelled in journalism, quiz bees, research, and math competitions.
“One of my proudest moments was when I represented the Division of Isabela in the Regional ASEAN Quiz Bee,” he recalls. “I’ve also received awards like Best in Mathematics, Science, Filipino, Araling Panlipunan, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao and Best Researcher of the Year.”
The Regional Science High School II graduate also displayed leadership as president of the school’s disaster risk reduction and management club, and member of the Municipal Youth Development Council, by helping plan, organize and conduct activities for the local youths.
Family inspires Tadeo to excel in his studies. He describes his mom and dad as full of love and sacrifices.
“I want to make my family proud. That’s why I always remind myself to do my best in school because if I do well now, I can have a better life someday. I also want to give back to them one day and tell them that, ‘Ma, Pa, your sacrifices are worth it, all of these are because of you,’” he said.
The scholarship itself is another motivation of Tadeo, who is taking up BS in Accountancy at the University of St. Louis in Tuguegarao City.
“I’m more motivated to do well because I know someone believes in me. This scholarship gives me hope, not just to finish college, but to actually reach my dream of becoming a CPA,” he says.
With his biggest strength, Tadeo is ready to face and overcome challenges ahead of him.
“I told myself that if I want to succeed, I must give my very best, I must work harder, and I must keep trying even if things get difficult. I need to stay focused on my goals. For me to move forward, I knew that my determination had to be stronger than my doubts,” he said.
“I was able to finish junior and senior high school with honors. Maybe all of my achievements, whether in school or in other areas of my life are all part of the result of my determination,” Tadeo added.
Someday, Tadeo hopes to make a difference in someone’s life, just like how SM Foundation made a difference by providing him the scholarship.
“I’m also passionate about helping others and giving back in any way I can, like sharing what I know, joining community work, or even just being there for someone who needs support. I really believe that success is not just for yourself, but also for the people around you,” he said.