Born on a rainy day on July 1 in the year 2008, I completed the Derequito Four: My mother, Madonna, my father, Irving, my brother, Sebastian, and finally, me, Samantha!

I was named after my older brother, Sebastian, by my father and mother who apparently had a liking for old-fashioned names. But, I'm not complaining, I think my name is pretty (My brother? Not so much)!

As the STEM CORE Creatives Head this year, I believe I have the right to say that STEM students can be so much more than the title and professions associated with the strand they are under.

I enjoy drawing, public speaking, writing (news articles), listening to music, watching films, and more!

Age: 17 (But will always be 14 at heart)

School:

• Ateneo de Davao University - SHS

• Notre Dame of Dadiangas University

• O.B. Montessori Center

Hobbies:

• Drawing

• Reading

• Watching Old Hollywood Films

• and more!

Likes:

• Anything sweet

• Coffee

• Coffee

• Did I say coffee?

• and more!

Dislikes

• Slime

• Loud chewing

• and more!

1. What was your Personality Type according to the 16-Personalities Test (MBTI Inspired Test)? Do you agree with the result? Why or why not?

My personality type is ENFJ-A, also known as “The Protagonist.” I resonate with this result because it reflects how I see myself and how others perceive me. I naturally take on leadership roles, not just for the sake of leading, but because I genuinely care about bringing people together and ensuring that no one is left behind. I strive to be encouraging, responsible, and thoughtful in every setting—whether in class, at home, or in organizations. This result reminded me that being outgoing and empathetic is not a weakness but a strength when used purposefully.

2. How can your Personality Type help you become a person with and for others?

As an ENFJ-A, I find fulfillment in making a positive difference in the lives of others. My personality type is driven by a strong sense of duty to help others grow, feel valued, and receive support. Being a "person with and for others" means using my influence to uplift those who are struggling or feel unheard. Whether through active listening, offering encouragement, or organizing meaningful community events, I am naturally drawn to serve. This personality trait enables me to build trusting relationships where people feel safe, appreciated, and inspired

I hope you're doing alright, in 10 years from now. Before I begin bombarding you with questions and expectations, I'll start first with talking about me.

I am currently a Grade 12 student in Ateneo de Davao University - Senior High School and I'm creamming this during my 10 minute break before Practical Research with Adriana Leker playing in the background to get me in "the feels".

How are you? Do you still get bad headaches? Are you in college by now? You better be!

I don't what course you're taking or what path in life honestly, but I fully trust myself now and even you, future me, that everything will work out for me, or rather us, in the end.

I just hope you're as happy as I am now, but knowing me, I might even be happier.

Sincerely,

10 years ago Samantha

These then are the steps in achieving my career objective:

1. I am currently taking the STEM Pre-Science Academic Track in Grade 12 in Ateneo de Davao University - Senior High School.

• I chose this strand because I want to become a doctor, and STEM will give me the strong foundation in science and research that I will need for medicine.

2. After completing senior high school, I will pursue my college degree in Medical Technology at UST General Santos.

• I chose UST Gensan because it has always been my dream to study in one of the country’s “Big 3” universities, and I believe it will provide excellent preparation for medical school.

3. While studying in college, I will prioritize developing practical skills—especially in laboratory work and research—to prepare myself for the hands-on demands of medicine.

• I will also join organizations and volunteer programs that will help me build discipline and empathy as a future doctor.

4. After graduating from college, I will take the Licensure Examination to become a registered medical practitioner.

• I will dedicate time to a thorough review and preparation to ensure that I pass on my first attempt.

5. I will then proceed to medical school to continue my studies and specialize in obstetrics and gynecology.

• During this time, I will train under experienced mentors, complete my internship, and develop my expertise in women’s health.

6. Ultimately, I aim to achieve my goal of becoming a successful OB-GYN, serving in hospitals and local health centers while delivering compassionate and affordable care to women in my community.

As part of my mental health plan, I engage in extracurriculars like the Ateneo Filmmakers Society, where I write and help in film projects. This gives me a creative outlet, reduces stress, and builds my confidence. Studies show that joining such activities improves emotional well-being and self-esteem (Fredricks & Eccles, 2006).

Filmmaking also helps me express myself and reflect on my experiences, which supports emotional balance. Creative practices are proven to strengthen resilience and lower stress (Stuckey & Nobel, 2010). For me, this makes filmmaking an essential part of maintaining good mental health.

2. Going Out with Friends

Another part of my mental health plan is spending time with my friends. Going out with them allows me to relax, share my thoughts, and feel supported. Strong social connections are shown to protect against stress and improve overall well-being (Umberson & Montez, 2010).

Being with friends also gives me a sense of belonging and happiness, which helps me manage academic pressures. Research confirms that social interactions play a vital role in maintaining good mental health and resilience (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010).

3. Pursue Creative Work

I also support my mental health by engaging in creative work as the Creatives Head of STEM Core. Designing and producing materials allows me to express myself while contributing to the organization’s projects. Creative involvement has been linked to lower stress and higher emotional well-being because it encourages self-expression and problem-solving (Stuckey & Nobel, 2010).

This role also builds my leadership and collaboration skills, which gives me confidence and purpose. Studies show that taking part in meaningful activities improves mental health by fostering resilience and a sense of accomplishment (Fredricks & Eccles, 2006). For me, this makes creative work an important part of my overall wellness plan.

Yes, Personal Development was very helpful because it allowed me to reflect deeply on who I am and who I want to become. Through the lessons and activities, I learned to recognize my strengths, weaknesses, and values, which helped me make better decisions about my goals. It also guided me in understanding my emotions and improving how I deal with challenges and relationships in life. Overall, the subject gave me a clearer sense of direction and self-awareness.

2. What were your key takeaways from the subject?

My key takeaways from Personal Development are the importance of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and goal setting. I learned that understanding myself is the foundation for building meaningful relationships and achieving success. The subject also taught me that mental health and well-being must always be prioritized, no matter how busy life gets. These lessons reminded me that personal growth is a lifelong journey that requires both reflection and action.

3. What two topics were your favorites and why?

My favorite topics were Mental Health and Wellbeing and Career Guidance. I enjoyed the topic on mental health because it helped me realize how vital it is to take care of my emotional and psychological state, not just my physical health. Meanwhile, career guidance inspired me to plan my future carefully and motivated me to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor. Both topics encouraged me to balance self-care with ambition, which I find essential in achieving a meaningful life.