by Quirino Almonte Jr.
Success can be elusive and multifaceted. Many strive for it, but capturing its true essence is like trying to hold water in your hands—visible yet constantly slipping away.
The term, however, can be associated with hard work, perseverance, or a series of goals achieved through determination. After learning about the life of Michael Royce C. Nasol, one can also add that success is a relentless journey of dedication and faith. If his success can be interpreted through his academic and professional endeavors, it is a kind of success that values persistence, resilience, and unwavering belief in one’s dreams.
Michael Royce C. Nasol, a 26-year-old Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship—Special Program for Adult Education graduate, embodies this spirit. Finishing Cum Laude at the Davao del Norte Learning Institute (DNLI) at Davao del Norte State College, Michael’s bravery and determination shine through. He demonstrates that success does not follow a single timeline or path. It requires the courage to pursue one’s dreams, even if it means taking a different route and persisting through challenges.
Balancing his role as an Administrative Aid VI at Davao de Oro State College while studying was no easy feat. Task prioritization, time management, and a hectic schedule presented numerous obstacles. Yet, Michael’s unyielding spirit led him to success. Though some may view his journey as delayed, he believes he is perfectly in sync with God’s plan.
“My college journey was like a rollercoaster,” Michael shared in an interview. “Working while studying during the pandemic brought many challenges, but I can proudly call myself a survivor. I overcame those challenges and achieved the bittersweet success of graduation.”
Michael recounted the difficulties of balancing employment responsibilities with academic loads, often completing academic tasks while fulfilling job assignments. He realized that proper time management was crucial to his success, becoming his primary armor in his long-prayed journey.
“I always sought God, prayed, and read His words. These were my motivations during my college journey,” he said. “At times, exhaustion led me to consider giving up, but my favorite life verse, Philippians 4:13—‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’—kept me going. Reflecting on it, I found motivation after tough academic battles.”
Throughout his journey, Michael shared invaluable lessons from his struggles, grateful for the fruit of his hard work, perseverance, and dedication.
“To all college students who struggle with fear, just put God in every decision you make because He is a great provider. Everything will be worthwhile, and the feeling is unexplainable once you successfully finish your mission,” he expressed.
For many graduating students, the journey to this momentous occasion has been smooth sailing. For some, however, it has been a rollercoaster ride of personal hardships and societal challenges. Each obstacle tested their resolve and commitment to their educational aspirations. But these students persisted and triumphed despite financial struggles, societal prejudices, and time management issues—like phoenixes rising from ashes.
Though perceived as overdue, he believes he achieved his goals in his perfect timeframe. Life is not a competition, and earning a degree is not a race. After all, as they say, “Buhay ay di karera” (Life is not a race).
In the end, Michael’s journey, much like the elusive nature of true success, is a testament to relentless perseverance and faith. His story reminds us that while success may seem out of reach, it is attainable through unwavering determination and belief. Michael Royce Nasol’s achievement is a powerful example of how success, though complex, is ultimately defined by the courage to pursue one’s dreams and the resilience to overcome every obstacle.
Layout by Genevev Manlangit
