AUTOBIOGRAPHY - PART 2

     Senior high school changed the way I saw myself. In Grade 11, our classes changed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. We had online classes and modules. I did not know my classmates well at first because we were learning remotely. Small acts of kindness from a few classmates helped me adjust. By Grade 12 we returned to face-to-face classes. When we first introduced ourselves and removed our face masks, a classmate suddenly said I looked like a public figure because we both had a gap between our teeth. I felt hurt and embarrassed. I had never had anyone make a comment about my teeth before. I went home sad and wanted to close the gap in my teeth. My parents comforted me and told me to be proud and accept myself. They encouraged me to see the value in who I am. Later, the student who made that comment was moved to a different section and eventually not enrolled. That incident still left a mark on my confidence, but I learned to be stronger and to value my true self.

     One of the most memorable experiences in senior high was leading our research project. I was the group leader for a study on malnutrition at our school. At first, I felt unprepared and anxious because I did not know how to do many parts of the work. We had to finish chapters three to five in a short time and prepare our questionnaires. The week before the final check became what I call our Hell Week. Many students were absent because graduation was near, and our panelists were only available on certain days. Our group was the last to present. We even had to pay for printing when our file was not finished. In spite of the pressure, our panelists liked our research topic. They encouraged us to finish and donate our work to the school for future researchers. The experience taught me leadership, perseverance, and the value of teamwork. I made new friends and had many experiences I will never forget.

     After senior high, I continued my studies in college. I entered Isabela State University and enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, majoring in Web and Mobile Application Development. I did not have a strong background in the field at first, but I enjoyed learning. I kept telling myself to work hard and improve step by step. I know there will be many challenges, but I believe I can handle them. I study because someone supports my education. I feel thankful for that support and for Gods help in my life. I promise to work diligently and not give up, even when the work is hard.

     People often ask how I got my name. My father chose my first name, Aristotle, after the famous scientist and philosopher. He wanted a name that would carry wisdom and meaning. My second name Lee comes from my fathers nickname, Rolly.

     When I look back, I did not think I would go beyond junior high, but here I am in my third year of college. I am proud of the progress I made. I remember thinking at one time that I would only finish junior high. Now I aim higher. I am thankful for my family and their support. My parents worked hard so I could study. My mother left her job in Manila to return to her hometown so she could begin a life with my father. My father changed his plans too, choosing family over other opportunities. They made sacrifices for our family. The love story that started with a small touch of hair became a foundation for our family life. I am grateful for their care and for the lessons they taught me.

     There were many small moments that shaped my childhood. The simple phone messages on my grandfathers keypad phone, the books I borrowed from teachers, the games I played, and the friendships I made, all these memories built who I am. The painful moments taught me humility and resilience. The working people in my family taught me to value effort and honesty.

     Now, at 21 years old, I continue to study, to learn new skills in technology, and to work on myself. I still have many dreams. I want to become a capable developer, to help my family, and to make a positive life for my future. I know I will face more hurdles, but I will meet them with faith and hard work.

     My story so far is not only about me. It is about my parents, their choices, and the small events that shaped our family. It is about teachers, friends, and the people who helped me along the way. It is about the difficult moments that taught me to be grateful. I close this autobiography with gratitude for the life I have been given and hope for what is still to come.

     Again, I am Aristotle Lee B. Maramag. And this is my story.

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