#letmetelyu: "I dream of La Union to remain a home to world- class learning institutions where students enjoy learning while pacing their way to achieving their dreams."
"We are under uncertain times, but we are certain to build a Stronger La Union.
#letmetelyu: "I dream of La Union to remain a home to world- class learning institutions where students enjoy learning while pacing their way to achieving their dreams."
Noel Estrada, 25, learned the value of hard work and determination at an early age. Being born in an underprivileged family, he knew early on that the path to success in life is education, but the keys are perseverance, passion and courage.
In college, he first desired to be a marine engineer, but his goal took a backseat when his family’s meager income can no longer sustain his education. “I experienced selling street foods with my parents just to make ends meet.” He even worked at a restaurant in San Fernando, and through his sheer dedication, he climbed up the ladder until he became the supervisor. “Through this job, I learned to build strong work ethics. Even without a degree yet, I was able to survive the challenges of the real world.”
But he knew there’s more for him. He left to explore the corporate world as a banking associate in Metro Manila. Here, his desire to venture into business and entrepreneurship began to form. In 2018, he then went back home to La Union and enrolled himself in a state university to earn a degree in Business Administration. He was already 23 at that time, but this did not bother him. “Nothing is ever too late. I just took this as a chance to inspire my younger classmates with my stories of hard work and determination.”
Still struggling as a self-supporting student, he sought for scholarship that will aid him in his education. And that is how he got into the Provincial Government of La Union's (PGLU) Educational Assistance and Scholarship Program. “This is really a big blessing for me, and the PGLU is instrumental for me to finally get a college degree.”
Noel is now the one of the two Presidents of PGLU Scholars, where he leads and inspires more than 800 students belonging to families of fisherfolks, farmers, and informal workers. “We have projects already planned out, but we had to put them aside as the pandemic persists.”
He is also a student leader in his University. In March 2020, he was tapped by the University Board in crafting the decisions in implementing the class adjustments as an effect of COVID-19.
Despite all these, Noel remains hopeful, and he is keen to share this optimism to his fellow students. “I want to tell my fellows to keep that fire burning; and not to be distracted by adversities that come along the way. Always just aim for the goal and hit it.”
As the world celebrates the International Youth Day today, August 12, the Provincial Government emphasizes its commitment to promote education for the province’s youth and students. Like Noel, students who yearn hard and persevere should always remember that the PGLU is here to support and cheer them on until they reach their fullest potentials as individuals, and as future leaders of the world.
Be one with us in our journey towards building a #StrongerLaUnion!
