In the realm of academic and professional achievements, there are individuals who embody the true spirit of resilience, determination, and a passion for learning. One such inspiring figure is Cris Francis Barbosa, a former student of Asiawise Study Center, whose remarkable journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of education.
“As a study center, I expected that the Asiawise Study Center would be able to help me polish my academic knowledge and problem-solving skills, and my expectations were exceeded. Not only did my academic knowledge and skills for the UPCAT improve, but Asiawise also helped me to grow more as a student, a peer, and a leader.”
Cris credits his time at Asiawise Study Center’s College Admission Test Review as a pivotal moment in his academic preparation for the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT). Reflecting on his experience, he remarked, “As a study center, I expected that the Asiawise Study Center would be able to help me polish my academic knowledge and problem-solving skills, and my expectations were exceeded. Not only did my academic knowledge and skills for the UPCAT improve, but Asiawise also helped me to grow more as a student, a peer, and a leader.“
The UPCAT is renowned for its rigor and competitiveness. When faced with these challenges, Cris developed strategies that would ultimately lead him to success. He emphasized the importance of preparation, saying,
“The key to acing an exam is how well you are prepared. With the help of Asiawise, I was confident with my review preparations. During the exam, I prioritized answering easier questions while also budgeting my time. The reading comprehension section of the exam surely intimidated examinees, but be sure to keep calm and maintain your focus.”
Having passed the UPCAT, Cris embarked on a transformative journey at the University of the Philippines. Pursuing his studies in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (MBB), he experienced exceptional personal and academic growth. He expressed deep gratitude to the Plant Lab Family, led by his thesis adviser Dr. Vermando Aquino, stating,
“Under his supervision, I was able to maximize my academic growth and apply the skills that I obtained from the MBB program. It is also because of my experience in the Plant Lab that I gained interest in plant molecular biology, hence, leading me to this career path.”
Mr. Barbosa’s academic path was not without its challenges. As a student coming from a low-income family, he faced financial struggles, juggling his studies while navigating the complexities of limited resources. However, he persevered and excelled, stating,
“During my MS, I experienced even tougher challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But I used this opportunity to learn new bioinformatics skills, turning risks into opportunities.”
Motivated by his love for biology, Cris pursued a career in Molecular Biology and Genomics. He acknowledged the guidance of his mentors, Dr. Aquino, Dr. Leny Galvez, and Dr. Ernelea Cao, for helping him excel in the field and appreciate its impact on society. He shared his aspirations, saying,
“As a scientist, I hope to make an impact in translating research efforts into programs and policies that will improve the lives of the Filipino farmers.”
Cris attributes his growth and approach to learning to his experience at Asiawise Study Center. He recognized the center’s role in fostering collaboration and teamwork, stating,
“The Asiawise Study Center helped me not only in preparing for college entrance exams but also helped me grow as a team player and collaborator. Here, I realized more about the fun in learning and helping peers to also learn as well.”
Reflecting on his educational journey, Cris shared valuable advice for students aspiring to pursue careers in challenging fields like science or biology. He emphasized the importance of pursuing excellence and embracing the journey rather than focusing solely on success. He encouraged students to keep moving forward, take calculated risks, and always pray for guidance.
As Cris Francis Barbosa’s story unfolds, it serves as an inspiration to students and professionals facing their own challenges. His relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with his unwavering determination, highlights the transformative power of education and the ability to overcome obstacles. He humbly states,
“Through God’s grace, I see myself now as a better version of myself as I was years ago, and I have my own story to tell.”
Mr. Barbosa’s journey from a student facing financial hardships to an accomplished professional serves as a beacon of hope. His remarkable story reminds us that with burning passion, dedication, and determination, nothing is impossible to achieve. As Cris continues to make a positive impact as a scientist, his words of wisdom resonate:
“Always strive for excellence during the journey, step-by-step, and you will surely reach your endeavors.”
If you want to be a scientist like Cris, brush up on your research and academic writing skills. To know more about our Research Consultancy Program, click here.
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