Story By Shania Paula Siembra
Photos By CST-R SMO
Going into high school, I only had one thing on my mind—to enjoy it! I aimed to make the most out of it knowing that high school comes but once in a lifetime. I want to remember CST-R only with loving memories.
Eight years ago, CST-R was so big and bright for me. I came in anxious about meeting new friends, new people and belonging in a new community in general. Coming in as the very first batch of the new K to 12 curriculum, we had big shoes to fill. Pressure mounted high as new subjects were introduced and a system overhaul was both tough and terrifying. In the outset, that transition only proved that CST-R is a school of excellence that is able to keep up with the demands of the times. There and then, I knew that I made the right choice.
In my first few high school years, I was a non-active student who would rather watch my friends and schoolmates perform than participate in activities myself. I’d rather be the cheerer than the player who proudly wore the Golden Eagles uniform. These were the times I regret most as I now look back to my high school life. Instead of watching my friends and schoolmates perform, I could have enjoyed playing a part. Instead of cheering for my friends in different sports events, I could have played and won, too. Then, I realized that CST-R was not just a school for learning but a platform for us to grow into better individuals and become better versions of ourselves.
Fast forward to the epic two years of senior high school. This time I engaged more in school activities. I joined different groups and organizations and found myself happy and contented as I evolved from onlooker to participant. I fully embraced event organizing and I had so much fun and fulfillment as I stayed up late prepping and decorating the stage for the next day’s event. Our CST-R Team Event family started with a few student-volunteers who were willing to make 3D letterings for the school events. Eventually, we learned to take power naps on the yellow benches of the school as we fixed technical issues for the events during intramurals. Then, we would roll together for hours shooting videos for the Student’s Day. The SDPC office, which most Thomasians called “guidance,” subsequently turned into the headquarters where we spread glitters and glue for CST-R’s first ever Seniors Ball. The team that taught me teamwork slowly became family.
To CST-R Batch 2020, I am sending you my sincere congratulations on your graduation despite the biggest roadblock that is now stopping you from donning the gold and red toga. I hope you made the most out of your six years in CST-R just like I did.
To the present Thomasians, I hope you make the most out of your remaining months and years in the campus that I love dearly. Enjoy your days at the school lobby where you await the initial bell to signal the end of recess. Always spend time with your friends but do not be afraid to make new ones. Be thankful to your mentors. Many of them do not just teach from the textbook but from life itself. Enjoy your bleacher moments and your meals at the kiosks because these are the little things that will make you remember CST-R. These are the endearing things about Alma Mater dear.
To my mentors, thank you. Thank you for guiding us all throughout our journey. CST-R will never be what it is today without you. We are and always will be grateful to all of you.
To my Alma Mater, hats off! I will always be grateful for the memories and I will always be proud to say that I am a product of this top-hole Recollect institution.
