I am Mikaela Shem Sinilong, and I live in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. I am the eldest among two
siblings in a simple but loving family. My parents are both hardworking, and they raised us in a
somewhat strict way, especially when it comes to values and how we treat other people.
When I was a child, I usually stayed at home whenever there was no school. I rarely went
outside, so most of my time was spent with my younger sibling. He was not only my playmate
but also my best companion. We would play together, share stories, and simply enjoy each
other’s company. For me, he was my childhood best friend.
During my elementary years, I didn’t really have many close friends because I was very quiet,
shy, and not really comfortable around many people. I was the type who preferred to keep
things to myself and didn’t like to talk too much. Some people even misunderstood me because
of that.
One unforgettable moment was when a parent of one of my classmates called me “mute,” just
because I rarely spoke. It hurt at that time, but looking back, I think it helped me value silence
and appreciate the few people I was really comfortable with.
This quiet personality of mine stayed with me as I grew up, and I carried it all the way to college.
Even though I met new people and faced bigger challenges, I still preferred to stay reserved
most of the time. It became a part of who I am, though little by little, I’ve also learned how to
adjust and open up when needed.
At present, I am a second-year college student at Cebu Normal University, taking up Bachelor of
Secondary Education major in Mathematics. Even if I am shy and not really comfortable around
many people, I chose the path of becoming an educator. Quite ironic, right? But for me, that’s
the beauty of it. Teaching is not only about being talkative or outgoing—it’s also about patience,
understanding, and the willingness to share knowledge. In a way, I see this as a challenge that
can help me step out of my comfort zone and slowly transform my weakness into strength. Who
knows, maybe one day the quiet kid who rarely spoke will become the teacher who inspires
students with both lessons and experiences.
I am also proud to say that I am a scholar of the KFF Foundation. The foundation has helped
me a lot financially, but more than that, it introduced me to new people who eventually became
like my second family. They constantly motivate me to do better in everything I do. One of the
biggest things I am thankful for is how the foundation trained me to step out of my shell.
Whenever I was chosen as a reporter, I had the chance to practice discussing lessons, sharing
my opinions, and speaking up during meetings—things that were once very hard for me as a
naturally quiet person. This foundation truly nurtured me, not only academically but also
personally, pushing me to grow little by little.
