Coming all the way from the Philippines and Hong Kong is freshman Cecile Angela Aballana. Angela (as she prefers) is majoring in business administration with an emphasis in accounting. During her last year in high school, she continuously prayed about one thing: to be in a place meant for her. 

“I have never thought of coming to PUC because It is too far from my parents and expensive,” she shared. “But God brought me here. It is a blessing, and I know that it is a part of His plan for me to study here since He made things go smoothly for me, from getting the Maxwell Scholarship to getting my F1 visa and arriving here in the United States.”

As an Adventist, Angela also committed to PUC to grow closer to God and learn more about Him. From dorm worships, vespers, and other spiritual life opportunities on campus, she can form a stronger relationship with God and other students. 

What does it mean to you to be one of PUC’s Maxwell Scholars? 

It is an honor and privilege to receive the Maxwell Scholarship as it helps my family and me to receive higher education with little cost. As a Maxwell Scholar, I aspire to become a role model to those doing and giving their best in their academic performances. I wish to serve the community and give others the privilege given to me as a Maxwell Scholar. Words cannot express how grateful I am to receive such honor and privilege, and I promise to give back and contribute to the betterment of the community.

How do you balance school and social life? 

I manage my time wisely. Time management is very crucial when it comes to keeping a balance between school and social life. When I start my day, I have a schedule mentally prepared. I do my schoolwork first before doing anything else. I also keep alarms for my classes and list things I need to do before I forget them. 

On the other hand, it is also important to have a social life in college. I usually spend time with my friends at the dining commons when we eat together. I also often study and do my homework with my friends. Nevertheless, it is important to have time management when balancing school and social life.

What responsibilities come with being a Maxwell Scholar? How do you handle that? 

One of the biggest responsibilities of being a Maxwell Scholar is maintaining a 3.5 or higher GPA. It is difficult to maintain, but I try my best. I will continue to do my best and not let doubt and anxiety get over me. There will be some days when doubt and anxiety get the best of me. When that time comes, I take a moment to breathe and pray to God. 

How do you get yourself out of a funk of not feeling motivated? 

When it comes to feeling unmotivated, I take a pause. Pause can mean anything from taking a nap, watching a show, gaming, etc. I also remind myself of the privilege I have been given as a Maxwell Scholar. Lastly, I also pray to God and ask for strength and guidance when it comes to being unproductive and unmotivated.

What kind of support do you receive from faculty and staff? 

The staff at PUC are very friendly and welcoming. I received a lot of support from them when understanding the topic they discussed. They are always eager and happy to help me and other students as long as we ask them. 

As an introvert, it takes a lot of my energy to talk to other people. I am happy that I can feel comfortable reaching out to my professors with a simple email or conversation. 

What do you appreciate the most about your department? 

As a business major, I appreciate the small classes and classrooms we have. The classes related to my major are small, which makes me feel more comfortable as a student. It is also easier to work with your professor when it comes to having a small class size. 

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers community? 

My favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers community is knowing that people have my back. My friends and teachers are there for me, and it is a wonderful feeling to experience being cared for.

When you’re not studying, what do you enjoy doing?

I enjoy watching Anime, Korean dramas, and other shows. I also enjoy hanging out with my friends at the Grind while playing pool. Another thing is practicing piano or the violin. Lastly, I enjoy cleaning my dorm room. It feels more comfortable staying in a clean environment.

What advice do you have for high school students considering PUC? 

For high school students considering PUC, I would say pray about it. Choosing where you finish college is difficult because you must consider many things, especially the community, cost, area, etc. I know God will lead you to the right path if you pray and talk to Him about it.