Sun Life holds reunion for scholars

MANILA, Philippines - “It was more than what I hoped for. I really enjoyed!”

This was how Sun Life Financial Philippines – Foundation Inc. scholar Kimberly Lucero described the reunion she attended with her fellow Sun Life scholars last November 23. The day had been packed with activities that gave them opportunities to get to know the company’s executives.

Lucero, who graduated from the University of San Carlos in Cebu with a BS Biology degree with Sun Life’s help, is currently pursuing medicine studies. She’s happy to still be considered a part of the Sun Life family, even if she has already graduated and has completed her scholarship. “They reassured us that they’re ready to help us with anything we need,” she shared.

The 36 scholars from Sun Life’s partner universities University of the Philippines Diliman, University of San Carlos (Cebu), Central Mindanao – University, and Mindanao State University – also got the chance to get to know each other during the reunion; and furthermore, find inspiration and strength in each other.

“We all have our own stories to share,” said CJ Santiago, a BS Statistics student from the UP Diliman. “We have all gone through or are going through a rough patch in life, which explains why getting a scholarship is a big deal. Meeting my fellow scholars now, I am even more inspired to do good in school so I can graduate with honors just like many of them.”

This sentiment was echoed by Crista Jane Nituda, who graduated with honors in BS Biology at Mindanao State University and is now an Ecosystem Management Specialist at the Department of Environment of Natural Resources. “I consider my Sun Life family as my inspiration in life. It was because of them that I was able to pursue my studies, especially since we were financially troubled that time because my grandmother died,” she shared.  “Striving to get good grades to maintain the scholarship also helped me graduate as a cum laude.”

It was the first time for many of them to meet their fellow scholars as well as the company’s executives. Among the activities they did were visit The Mind Museum and participate in “SunPiology,” the company’s annual fun run.

Also, in keeping with Sun Life’s advocacy of promoting financial literacy, a personal financial planning session was conducted to equip the scholars with essential knowledge in their journey towards financial security.

“The reunion was really awesome,” Santiago said. “That Sun Life supports our education is already something; but the company went beyond that. This reunion truly made us feel like we are a part of the Sun Life family.”