I’m Vanessa Mae L. Guerra, but please call me Van! (Or you’re feeling extra cute, go with Vanny, like my friends do! Apparently, it reminds them a bunny… and honestly? I’m not mad about it. Bunnies are adorable).

Now for fun little fact about me: I was actually named after the famous British violinist “Vanessa Mae” yup, the incredibly talented one! When I found that out, I went down a rabbit hole watching her performances, I was mesmerized. She’s seriously magical with that violin.

This year’s a big one for me - I’m turning 18 (cue dramatic music 🎬.) I won’t lie, the idea of adulting is a little scary… all those responsibilities suddenly feel real. But don’t worry, I still plan to have lots of fun and make the most of it!

I’m also the youngest in the family, with one ate and kuya (yes, I’m the baby of the bunch!). Being the bunso means I’ve always been showered with love especially by my mom, who’s been my biggest supporter through thick and thin. She taught me to stay humble, be kind, and always care for others. Looking back, I realize I’ve been able to help a lot of people simply because of those values she passed down to me. ❤️

Oh! And before I forget I have two adorable dogs, Mika and Miki. 🐶🐶 I miss them so much lately because I’m far from home, but just thinking about their little wagging tails and happy faces make my heart full.

None of it was planned, we didn’t even know we’d all be neighbors. But somehow, the universe brought us in the most unexpected place. And just like that, our little apartment turned into something so much more than just shared walls.

Now we’re seniors, just a few months away from graduation (hopefully), and I can’t lie, I’m really not ready for that chapter to close. I miss the good old days already. But at the same time, I feel so lucky to have shared this journey with the people who turned everyday moments into something special.

I loved collecting romance and fiction books, they let my imagination run wild and take me to dreamy, magical places. It all started with reading random love stories on TikTok and social media!

Next is cooking. Since living indecently, I’ve enjoyed making budget-friendly meals. I’m not a pro yet, but I love the satisfaction of eating something made plus, I always help cook dinner when my parents are tired.

And finally, dancing! I’ve loved dancing since grade school, it’s my way of moving, expressing, and having fun (even though I get tired more easily now 🥲).

At first, I didn’t think much of it. But the moment I stepped into a character, I felt something click. Acting became more than just pretending, it was a powerful way to express emotions, to tell stories, and step into someone else world. Every role felt like a chance to explore a part of myself I hadn’t met yet.

I even joined the Filmmakers Club, thinking, “Maybe this is something I could really love.” And I was right I fell in love with acting. It gave me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone and chase something that made me feel alive.

Now, I see it as more than just a hobby, it’s a door to possibility, creativity, and growth. And who knows? Maybe this is just the beginning of something amazing. 😶‍🌫️

I find myself wondering... what are you doing right now? Have you achieved some of the dreams you used to talk about so passionately? Do you have more friends now-people who truly see and appreciate you?

Are you still the same Vanessa l've always known, or have you become someone even stronger, wiser, and more extraordinary?

Maybe you're in a relationship. Maybe you're not. But that doesn't really matter as much as the love you continue to give yourself. It's hard to know where life will take us 5 or even 10 years from now, but what I do know-what I believe is that you'll find your way, no matter what.

I just hope, more than anything, that you're doing okay. I hope you're doing great, actually.

I know you. You get overwhelmed when things start falling apart. You doubt yourself when nothing seems clear. But even in those moments, please don't forget who you are. You are someone with a big heart and a bold, resilient spirit. Keep believing in yourself. Continue to be the weird, beautiful, passionate version of you that so many people love and appreciate.

There will be seasons of loneliness, isolation, even selfishness and that's okay. Those are parts of your journey, necessary chapters in your growth. They don't define you; they shape you. They prepare you for the woman you are becoming.

I hope by now, you've found the career path that truly excites you. You have so much time to explore, to try, to fail, and to find what sets your soul on fire. I hope you chased your dream of becoming a supermodel walking on runways across the world, engaging with people from different cultures, and living a life of adventure and style. I hope you also followed your passion for psychology, finished your degree, and found a way to blend your creativity with your intellect.

A model, a psychologist, a businesswoman

that's the Vanessa I dream of.

And maybe, if it's meant to be, you'll get married at 25 and have a beautiful family of five kids-children who will grow up knowing a mother who's strong, kind, loving, and completely, unapologetically herself. I hope your future husband is someone who lifts you up, who listens, who supports you through every high and low. Someone who becomes your safe place, your home, your best friend.

Right now, you may not be in a relationship and that's okay. Because love isn't about rushing. It's about timing. The right kind of love will come when it's meant to. It's out there, waiting for you with patience and purpose.

At 60, I hope you've traveled the world, donated to causes you care about, and saved not just money but meaningful memories for your children and for yourself. I hope you've lived a full, radiant life one with purpose, joy, and lots of love.

Remember: every problem has a solution. It's not easy, but your strength lies in how you choose to

face it. Trust God's timing. Lean into His guidance. And never stop believing in the person you are becoming.

Finally, I just want to say this: I am proud of you. So deeply, incredibly proud. No matter what you become or where you go, I love you the most and I always will.

Take care of yourself. Always

With love and care

Your younger self

🎀🌸

-Personal Development was very helpful because it helped me understand myself better. I became more aware of my strengths, weaknesses, and emotions, which guided me in improving how I handle situations. This subject taught me to value self-reflection and make more mindful decisions about my growth and relationships.

2. What were your key takeaways from the subject?

-My key takeaways from Personal Development are the importance of self-awareness and self-care. I learned that understanding my emotions and behavior helps me build confidence and better connections with others. I also realized that personal growth requires patience, balance, and continuous effort to become the best version of myself.

3. What two topics were your favorites and why?

-My favorite topics were Parenting Styles and Improving Family Members’ Relationships because they both highlight how families shape a person’s growth and values. Learning about the different parenting styles helped me understand how parents influence their children’s behavior and confidence. I also appreciated how improving family relationships reminds us to value communication, appreciation, and time together to keep our bonds strong.