Jhon Lenard Dela Perla, 23, at one point in his life, was certain that he can no longer finish his studies for two reasons: one, the pandemic has greatly affected their source of income; two, if given a choice between continuing his studies or taking care of his family, he knows for sure that his family will always come first.

With a FIRST College Scholarship, Lenard’s life changed. He now has hope to continue his studies and a chance for a better future.

Lenard comes from a poor family and the eldest of three siblings. In 2011, his parents separated, leaving him and his siblings relying on his father who is a construction worker earning PhP 12,000 a month for the whole family. Less groceries and utility expenses, they are left with roughly PhP 3,000. Lenard Knew that he needed to help provide for the family.

After graduating from Junior High, Lenard took odd jobs such as Helper, Production Operator at Brother, Tricycle Driver, and “Pares” vendor just to finance his own studies. With this hustle, he is earning around PhP 7,000 to 9,000 a month. He worked every single day.

“Sabi nga po sa ‘kin ng tatay ko, pag-aaral lang po ang kaya niyang ipamana sa ‘min. Wala po siyang kayang ipamanang lupa [o] pera… kaya magsikap daw po ako sa pag-aaral,” he says when asked about how important his FIRST College Scholarship is for him.
“Mahirap pong pagsabay-sabayin Fang pag-aaral at pagtatrabaho], kasi po bitin sa oras. Pati po ‘yung pagod, ramdam na ramdam,” he admits.

But this will never stop him from pursuing his dreams. He remains steadfast and full of hope towards a better life for his family and himself. Lenard consistently attends classes, submits his homework, and builds friendships with his classmates even on a virtual set-up-all while helping his father put food on the table.

Lenard’s adviser, Ms. Carewell Kasilag, witnessed first-hand his dedication and passion to finish senior high school.

“He’s a diligent and a very polite person,” she said. “And, as his adviser and teacher, naramdaman ko talaga yunq paqsisikap niya sa paq-aaral. Nag-memessage siya para magtanong tungkol sa mqa lessons at homework tuwinq may hindi siya qaano naiintindihan.”

“Kahit nagtatrabaho siya sa umaga at gabi, nagsisikap siyang makapagpasa ng mga requirements niya. Inaalam niya talaga kung ano pa yung magagawa niya para sa pag-aaral niya,” she added.

Now a Grade 12 student, assigned in FIRST Philec, he expresses his deep gratitude to the donors and to FIRST College who helped fulfill his dreams of finishing his studies. He hopes to continue his college education at FIRST College and, eventually, make a mark for himself.