Final Message as Ms. Education 2009
MESSAGE FROM MS. EDUCATION 2009. Kimberly Aidyl S. Lao
There are billions of people on this Earth and never did it cross my mind that I would be the one standing before you today.
If I were to summarize my pageant experiences they would all come down to one word: unexpected. I was really forced out of my comfort zones and I discovered a new side of me that I never knew existed. The road I travelled as an Education Personality - from the STAUST pageant all the way to TSITP - was a journey of self-discovery that I would never ever forget.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the people that with whom without I wouldn’t even be here: my BioSci classmates, for getting me to join Ms. STAUST in the first place. To Lora, Jake, Marj, Dane, Ivan, Ice, Keno, the AB-BSE majors, the students of 4 – Simplicity and 2 - Respect – I wouldn’t have made it without your help and support. Thanks to the CESC and STAUST officers for all your efforts. I’m especially thanking Kuya Jai, I would never have survived the talent portions without you. I wouldn’t have wanted anyone else as a partner. Lastly, to my ever supportive inay: I know that I was a huge pain during this whole process but please know that I treasured our bonds during this time and I love you with all my heart for caring about things the way you did. It brings me joy that I made you so proud.
There will always be a place in my heart for my TSITP family. Thank you to Angela, Aaron, Third, Karla, Goddess, Muse, Kuya Jay, Kuya Jan – I know that I always looked like a fish out of water, thanks for being so patient and supporting me anyway. I learned so much from you. To my fellow candidates, you are all beautiful inside and out. I can honestly say that I did, after all, win the ultimate prize – friendship.
To Ms. Education 2010, I leave you with simple words. BE YOURSELF. These pageants push you to the edge and challenge you to do things you never thought you would but just remember to stay true to who you are. You would not be here if it wasn’t for your personality, your inner beauty and as long as you stick to it, you’ll sparkle and shine amidst all stress, pressure and demand. Secondly, ENJOY IT, don’t let the grandeur of it all get to you. This will only happen once and you should make the most of it while you can. Savor each moment while it lasts because it is a truly remarkable experience that you can learn so much from.
And finally, as my last words as Ms. Education 2009, I mention one of my favorite quotes: “Find the extraordinary in the ordinary.” This can never be truer because before all this, I was nothing but ordinary and now, I stand before you as an extraordinary woman and an extraordinary Thomasian.