Maria stood at the entrance of the Supreme Court building, her heart racing with anticipation. Today marked a significant milestone in her life—the day she would receive the results of the Bar exam she had poured her heart and soul into for the past six months. As she waited for the results in her hands, she felt a mix of hope and fear. Would her hard work pay off?
The exam took place on September 8, 11 and 15, 2024. Maria, like many others across the Philippines, faced long nights of studying, countless cups of coffee, and moments of doubt. She remembered the sacrifices she made along the way—missed family gatherings, late-night study sessions, and the pressure that weighed heavily on her shoulders. Yet, she also recalled the support of her family, who believed in her dream of becoming a lawyer.
As she reads the results, tears filled her eyes. She had passed! The weight of anxiety lifted off her shoulders, replaced by overwhelming joy. Maria could hardly believe it; she was now one of the 3,962 successful candidates out of 10,778 who took the exam. The passing rate of 36.76% reflected not just numbers but the dedication and resilience of aspiring lawyers like her.
Soon, she would participate in a special oath-taking ceremony—a moment she had envisioned for years. She could already picture herself standing among fellow graduates, their faces beaming with pride as they officially entered the legal profession. This was not just a victory for her but for her family, who had supported her every step of the way.
However, Maria was also aware that not everyone shared in this triumph. She thought about her friend, Alex, who had also studied tirelessly but did not pass the exam this year. She remembered their late-night study sessions and how they encouraged each other during moments of doubt. Maria felt a pang of sadness for Alex but also a deep sense of empathy. The road to becoming a lawyer is not an easy one; it’s filled with ups and downs.
In her heart, Maria knew that perseverance was essential. She reached out to Alex, offering words of encouragement: “You have what it takes to succeed. This is just one step on your journey. Keep pushing forward.” Maria wanted Alex to know that setbacks do not define your future; they are merely bumps along the road to achieving your dreams.
As Maria prepared for the oath-taking ceremony, she reflected on what being a lawyer meant to her. It wasn’t just about wearing a suit or having a prestigious title. It was about making a difference—advocating for justice, helping those in need, and being a voice for the voiceless. She felt ready to bring fresh perspectives and energy into the legal field.
Who do you relate to, Maria or Alex?
To Maria, as you step into your new role as a lawyer, embrace the excitement and responsibility that comes with it. Use your passion and dedication to make a positive impact. Remember to stay humble and always seek to learn. Your journey has just begun, and the influence you can have on others is immense. Surround yourself with supportive peers and mentors, and never hesitate to reach out for guidance. You have worked hard to achieve this dream—now go out there and shine!
To Alex, I know this moment feels tough, and it’s easy to feel disheartened. However, remember that setbacks are not failures; they are stepping stones on your path to success. Take this time to reflect on what you’ve learned during your preparation and how you can improve moving forward. Resilience is built through challenges, and each attempt brings you closer to your goal. Stay focused on your dream of becoming a lawyer. Your determination will pay off, so keep pushing forward. Do not give up on your dreams.
Both of you have unique journeys ahead, filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and inspire others. Support one another, celebrate every small victory, and keep moving toward your dreams. Remember, the road may be long, but every step you take brings you closer to where you want to be.
Stay strong, stay motivated, and believe in yourselves!
Best wishes on your journeys.
