Zal, congratulations!

It was my dream to win in competitions like Science Investigatory Project (SIP). That dream came true when I finally decided, with the help of my co-teachers in the science department, to give it a try.

It‘s no easy thing to conduct an experimental research with limited resources at hand and with so little time to do it. It was even more difficult when I had to do it alongside with my training and coaching my students for the Student Technologist and Entrepreneurs of the Philippines (STEP) Skills Competition particularly in Techno Quiz.

But sacrifices paid off. It is true that success is achieved and maintained by those who keep trying with positive mental attitude. I won in the regional science fair in Butuan City and I would represent Caraga Region. My students also won in the Techno-Quiz.

The next level of competition was about to unfold in National arena. The 7^th National Science Quest was held in Tabaco City, Camarines Sur on February 3-5, 2010. This event was spearheaded by the Association of Science Educators of the Philippines (ASEP). The mere thought of it brought me lots of mixed emotions. What would I do? It was really breathtaking. I kept myself motivated and in high spirit all the time I thought of it. I told myself that I am doing it not only for own benefit but for the honor and glory of Caraga Region; my province, Surigao del Sur; and my school in particular, the Jacinto P. Elpa National High School.

This line of thinking kept me energized. It kept my adrenaline running. I remained high even on the day of the science congress. I presented my science investigatory project with so much confidence. After seeing my teacher- contenders demonstrating the same interest, passion and professionalism as I do, I showed up all the best I know how.

We were all 16 contestants for Applied Science Teacher category, each representing his or her own region. Only top five scientific studies would be chosen. After all the entries were presented I felt a rather negative feeling. I told myself I never gonna make it. My appearance in the National contest means I am already a winner. Not everybody had the chance to be here, I reasoned out. If they pick me up, it’s already a bonus. The next day, the moment of truth came as a thunderstruck. My name was called during the awarding ceremony. I got 3^rd place! I couldn’t believe what I had heard.

Going back home with the bacon was the nicest thing that ever happened in the entire trip of the contest. When I got back to school, I saw a congratulation streamer hanging high in the school entrance. I felt a sense of pride in myself and became grateful to the people behind the success. A large part of it would be credited from my co-teachers in the science department who motivated me to participate in the first place.

Everybody in the school campus flashes a smile on me. But the feeling I couldn't forget was when our school principal said these lines, "Zal, congratulations. Thank you for bringing pride to our school."