Jodi Sta. Maria is set to march on June 23, 2021, now that she’s successfully finished her final thesis defense!
The actress, mother, and psychology major shared her experience during her final presentation through an Instagram Stories post. “[I] wanted to share this with all of you! I passed my final defense this afternoon. Being grilled for more than three hours was no joke,” she said.
Despite the difficulties Jodi experienced, she said that everything was worth it. “I must say the sleepless nights, the sacrifices, the hours spent in front of the computer to source out materials for my paper, were worth it. Marching soon!”
Valuing education
Jodi persevered to finish her studies, saying that this was something she really wanted to achieve. “I knew in my heart na it was something na tatapusin ko, it’s just a matter of timing and opportunity.”
In June 2017, Jodi started her BS Psychology course in Southville International School and Colleges through the INNOVE Education Solution program. For four years, she managed to juggle her work as an actress and her responsibilities as a college student. According to an ABS-CBN report, she cleared her Tuesdays from any work commitments, since this was the day she set aside for school.
“One thing na in-instill sa akin ng lola ko and ng mom ko when I was child, kami ng brother ko, was education is something important. It is something na no one can take away from you. And also I have a son, and I have to set a good example,” she said.
No special treatment
The 38-year-old actress expressed her gratitude to the people who supported her in reaching this endeavor. She tweeted, “I want to thank everyone who prayed for me and those who sent messages of encouragement. Maraming salamat! Malapit na ang graduation!”
I want to thank everyone who prayed for me and those who sent messages of encouragement. Maraming salamat! Malapit na ang graduation!! ? pic.twitter.com/MWs0TBitTR
— Jodi Sta.Maria (@JodiStaMaria) June 5, 2021
Jodi also shared that she’s happy that she received no “special treatment” as a student. “I’m thankful din kasi I was really treated as a normal student, alam mo ‘yun, ‘yung walang ‘special treatment?’ Kung ano ‘yung pinagdaanan ng regular na estudyante ‘yun ang pinagdaanan ko,” she said.
What an inspiration! Congratulations, Jodi!