SM Foundation charts new horizons for its scholars

GROWING up in a single-income household, Sharlene de Guzman faced challenges that shaped her determination to build a better future for her family. Although their circumstances made daily life difficult, de Guzman was driven by her desire to help her parents and lift them out of their struggles.Being in a single-income family often meant making sacrifices. "Back then, my teachers knew me as one of the top students, but among the last ones to pay for anything. Even at a young age, I promised myself that I would not continue to live this way. I wanted change," de Guzman shared. This sense of responsibility fueled her ambition to rise above the limitations they faced.A turning point came when she was awarded an SM Foundation scholarship. This opportunity gave her the means to pursue her dreams and take control of her future. She graduated summa cum laude, driven by a relentless passion for education — her chosen path to break the barriers that have held back many Filipinos for generations."I've come to understand that if you have a dream, even if you feel [that] you lack the capabilities, the key is to want it badly enough. When you truly desire something, you will keep moving forward no matter how many obstacles the world throws your way," de Guzman reflected on her journey.Now a teacher at a private school in Tanza, Cavite, de Guzman is committed to using her success to inspire others, proving that determination and a strong sense of purpose can lead to a brighter future.Liberty to pursue educationBeing an SM scholar gave de Guzman the liberty to pursue her studies wholeheartedly without worrying about the day-to-day expenses of her family."This scholarship means so much to me not just for my own goals but for my family as well. Although I was accepted into a state university that offers free tuition, I knew there would still be many other expenses along the way. The SM scholarship didn't just help support my education but it also eased the financial burden on my family as a whole," she shared."Beyond the financial relief, I also saw the many career opportunities that SM offers after graduation. This made me even more grateful to be chosen as one of their scholars. They have opened doors for my future," Sharlene said enthusiastically.Reaching newer, greater heightsAnother successful alumnus of the SM College Scholarship program was Engineer Remson Mark Macawile, currently an assistant vice president for Transaction Banking at one of the leading banks in the country.Balancing multiple roles with dedication to excellence, Macawile also serves as an active Philippine Air Force Reservist with the rank of Technical Sergeant, and an Adjunct Professor in undergraduate and graduate courses at his alma mater, National University, and Asia Pacific College.His determination to excel started long before he became an SM scholar. Despite graduating as valedictorian from his public high school, his family's financial situation made college seem like a pipe dream."College was always a hope but never a certainty. My dad worked hard in a factory and my mom managed our home, but we didn't have the means to afford a college education. Scholarships were my only way forward, and I applied to several; but, it was the SM Foundation scholarship that truly stood out," he explained."Every semester, I promised myself [that] I would work hard enough to make the Dean's List and bring my grades back to the SM Foundation office to personally show my progress to the SM Foundation Scholarship team, especially Ma'am Ling," he shared.The scholarship was the steppingstone that allowed him to pursue his education and fully realize his potential."They didn't just cover my tuition; they believed in me, lifting a huge weight off my shoulders and giving me the chance to pursue my dream," he said.Macawile said: "This scholarship wasn't just a ticket to education; it was a lifeline. It taught me that opportunity exists for those willing to work hard and persevere. Knowing someone believed in me — that changed everything. I felt accountable not just to myself but to those who supported me. That sense of responsibility pushed me beyond my limits."Alongside the support, the scholarship opportunity instilled in him a lifelong commitment to excellence and gratitude, which he now embodies as a professor who passes these values on to his students."As an adjunct faculty member across multiple programs at National University, I now have the privilege of guiding both master's and engineering students, sharing my journey, [knowledge,] and the lessons I've learned along the way," he said.Today, as Macawile pursues his doctorate in engineering management at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, he continues to set higher goals for himself, determined to uplift others along the way.To the new batch of SM Foundation scholars who will follow his footsteps to success, he has this piece of advice: "Remember that you wear a badge: the SM Isko badge, a badge that represents excellence, resilience and the unwavering belief that you have the potential to change lives."He emphasized: "Being an SM scholar means more than just you having financial support; it means you are part of a legacy built on determination, hard work and the pursuit of something greater. Carry this SM Isko badge with pride and let it remind you every day that you are capable of greatness."The Foundation's SM College Scholarship Program aimed to provide underserved youth with the opportunity to pursue quality tertiary education. By empowering them through academic support, the program sought to transform lives, enabling scholars to uplift their families and communities. On Nov. 20, 2024, the program marks a new milestone as over 218 scholars graduated, joining the ranks of more than 4,000 alumni whose journeys have been enriched by the scholarship program. To learn more about their social good programs, visit www.sm-foundation.org.