In the bustling halls of the School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management, I was just a typical student pursuing a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management. Little did I imagine that my life was about to embark on an incredible, transformative journey – one that would test my mettle, break barriers, and reveal the heart of a champion that was instilled in me.
Every awe-inspiring story begins with a spark. Mine ignited during my college days at the University of Baguio. My insatiable curiosity to explore the world beyond my own, the excitement to seize every opportunity, the dream to conquer my fears and weaknesses such that those were transformed into valuable experiences which sculpted me to be the person I am today. Inspired by the real-life experiences of my SIHTM mentors within the industry, I felt driven to apply all the practical learnings, insights, and skills I had gained throughout my academic journey. This pursuit led me to taking part in UB-SIHTM’s international on-the-job training program in the United States. Here, I participated in a J-1 cultural exchange program as a food and beverage associate in one of the biggest ski resorts & hotels — Deer Valley in Utah, USA.
For someone who, for the first time, has stepped out of her comfort zone to live alone in a foreign land, this gave me jitters. I was thinking of both thrilling and nerve-wracking would-be experiences. I have never been away for far too long from my family, coupled with the thought of my parents being burdened to raise a hefty sum just so I could realize this dream of mine, I really had second thoughts. Call it blessed, my family rallied behind my back and with our devotion to the Divine Mercy, everything went on smoothly, I reached Utah. Immediately I missed home. I missed our one-of-a-kind Filipino family Christmas and New Year in 2016. Yet, life has to go on from miles away; thus, I channeled my homesickness to work. I ignited it with my undying passion for service, love for interacting with people, and my determination to overcome each and every challenge I encountered with a goal of making every endeavor an enriching one.
My 12-month long training experience gave me the strength to realize and live my dream. Handle varied tasks in the different restaurants of a huge ski resort; thrive in a diverse culture, language and accent; explore various places across the country; meet my relatives, high school classmates and friends, and even get approved to cross the border to visit relatives and discover Canada's beauty firsthand.
Thinking back, I felt God's overflowing love and blessings. Don't get it wrong. It wasn't easy, in fact quite bumpy and rugged at times. I was the least risk-taker in our family and so I myself couldn't believe I made it through. I was given so much more than I asked from God. Perhaps it is because I and my family lifted everything all up to Him, making Him my divine companion in my journey. He made sure this exposure turned me into a strong, resilient go-getter and allowed me to not only improve personally, professionally, but also spiritually.
Armed with my hard-earned HRM degree in hand, I returned to Canada full of dreams and aspirations. However, life had its way of testing my resolve. After months of joblessness and uncertainty, I found myself exploring other options but to no avail. It seemed like a blessing in disguise; perhaps God knew that it wasn't the right time for me to face this challenge. And so, feeling emotionally, mentally, and financially unprepared for such a significant transition, I returned home - utterly defeated.
In 2018, I headed home with a heavy heart. I was in a dark place, questioning my worth and abilities. Fortunately, my supportive family never left my side. Their unwavering faith allowed me to regain confidence and find hope amid failures and rejections. It's their love and encouragement which pushed me to take another leap of faith – this time enrolling in a Master's program in Business Administration.
To my surprise, another opportunity soon came knocking at my door: together with my mother, we opened a small bubble tea shop in our hometown. This venture served as both a practical application of my education and an opportunity to grow while pursuing further education. My knowledge and passion for business management were truly put to the test when COVID-19 struck – threatening our business like so many other small entrepreneurs. Despite the hardships, I became more determined than ever before not only to survive but also to thrive amidst adversity.
With renewed determination and an eagerness to learn more about the food and beverage industry, I once again took the risk to leave my comfort zone and braved on another journey – studying Food and Beverage Management in Canada as an international student. I knew it wouldn't be easy; the road ahead wouldn't be easy by any means; countless struggles threatened to break my spirit along the way. From battling anxiety attacks, self-doubts, late night breakdowns, and silent tears to losing loved ones along the way. Financial constraints loomed large over me as I juggled my studies, part-time work, and personal life. Yet, through it all, I found the strength to conquer these setbacks and forged ahead.
Having reached what was once an optional goal, transforming into a distant dream and ultimately evolving into my present reality. Throughout this entire journey, the support from above has been unwavering – a guiding force that has not only remained by my side but has also provided me with unexpected blessings. This hard-earned achievement fills me with gratitude and humility. Overcoming obstacles and transcending my fears, I have learned the true power of resilience, determination, and faith. It was only through these qualities that I have been able to take steps toward realizing my dreams, embracing challenges, and preparing for an uncharted future. Remember that there is always more to achieve; it's vital to embrace the constant evolution of our goals.
Throughout my experiences, I have been shaped by life's lessons and the immense support of my beloved family members, my life partner, and the network of beautiful souls who have surrounded me during this extraordinary journey. Achieving milestones like this would not have been possible without their unwavering encouragement.
And to all current students, aspiring international students, and dreamers everywhere, let my humble but transformative journey in Canada serve as proof that with positive values and great faith in God, we can achieve personal and professional growth beyond our wildest dreams. May each of you forge your own path to success, dare to dream big, push yourselves beyond imagined boundaries, and embrace the challenges life brings with open arms. In doing so, you will undoubtedly become better versions of yourselves – shaped by invaluable life lessons and driven by an unwavering pursuit of your passions, paving the way for future generations of global citizens.
Together, let us embark on the incredible adventures that await us on our unique paths as international students and dreamers alike. Embrace every opportunity with courage and determination, and always remember: the sky is not the limit – we are! For ours is the Heart of a Champion!