LET Topnotcher on Why Quality Education Shouldn’t Be Expensive

What does it take to be one of the topnotchers of the Licensure Exam for Teachers? Do you have to be so bright to pass it, or do you need to persevere? Generose Marafel, who ranked top 10 at the LET last January, shares what it takes to be at the top. 

Generose is the eldest child, and she came from a family with a meager income. Growing up, she learned what it meant to work extra hard since her stepfather, who she believed grew up as her biological father, was the only one working before. That’s why she strives hard to finish her studies to find a better opportunity. 

She had seen what it is like when you lack education and how important financial stability is in our lives. Not having the means to provide for your study can affect a person’s academic performance. “As much as my family means to me, education matters. People who surround me (my family) lack education because of the hard life they experienced. They chose to stop, and I witnessed how their lives went. I don’t want to be in that position. That’s why I strive hard to finish my studies,” Generose said. 

When Generose was younger, she sometimes went to school without having breakfast or allowance, but she never missed a class. This only proves that a person who wishes to achieve more in life will make things possible. 

According to Generose, “During my high school and college years, there were times that we were broke, so my parents had to borrow from our neighbors or someone we know. It’s embarrassing that we came to that point, but I used it to continue believing and dreaming. I gave my best to study. That’s how dedicated I am to learning and going to school. Nothing can stop my eagerness to pursue my learning.” 

Education is important, and everyone deserves to have access to quality tertiary education. Yet, many are unfortunate to pursue their studies because they have to provide for their family’s needs. If Generose had not been a scholar in the National Teachers College until she graduated, she might not know what else to do to meet both ends for her and her family. 

During her time at NTC, she sold various products to earn additional income, such as lip tints, shirts, and ball pens, which was her best seller. According to her, “Choosing to study in NTC is the best decision I’ve ever made in my whole life as it turned my life 360 degrees. As an education student, I found this institution a perfect match for my chosen career. And, of course, the tuition fee [is manageable] since NTC is not that expensive compared to other schools. I believe that accessing high-quality education does not need to be expensive. NTC is offering affordable tuition fees yet delivering effective and quality education.” 

Being in NTC showed Generose that good education is and should be for everyone. Yet, NTC did not merely offer her the education she needed but experiences and opportunities that gave her leverage in her chosen career as well.

“NTC helped me to grow in any possible means. It opened doors of opportunities to everyone who is dreaming and wants to unleash their potential. It taught me to go out of my comfort zone. NTC believes in me and my capabilities. With all the things that happened during the pandemic, I cannot imagine my life would be like this. As I’ve conquered another milestone in my career, taking the board exam, Tanglaw is with me. I’m not just able to pass it, but I also even made it to the top. I am living proof of how NTC is a life-changing institution. I am forever grateful to this institution and surely forever be proud to carry its name,” Generose added. 

Making it to the top is not an easy journey, as Generose has shared. She had her fair share of struggles, but it did not stop her to dream and persevere. Moreover, she had experienced the joy of quality education with NTC, which allowed her to grow and achieve more. 

If you’re on the same journey as Generose, it’s important to be in a supportive environment just like NTC. Who knows, you might just find the helping hand you need to turn your life around and make it to the top!