Why I'm Choosing Ateneo

As we prepare to start another school year, we want to hear from our incoming freshies about what they're most looking forward to in their Ateneo experience. Ateneo Women's basketball rookie, guard, and incoming AB Political Science major Kate Cancio shares why she believes Ateneo can hone her to be the best version of herself – both as a student and an athlete.

I used to hear about Ateneo from my relatives who study there. They have all sorts of good things to say about the school. They say that the campus is nice and safe, the people are friendly and helped them around Ateneo, and the education is excellent and is focused on what the students need. Personally, what my relatives have said about the school is what I have been looking for in a college: quality education and a good, safe learning environment. However, as a basketball player, I am also looking for a basketball opportunity to be the best version of myself and a team that is happy and willing to accept me.

Through my high school recruitment process, I got to know the Ateneo Women's Basketball Team (AWBT). My high school coach messaged me about how good the Ateneo women's basketball program is and about possibly playing for them. From there, I then wanted to try out for the team. I was able to get in touch with Coach LA Mumar of the AWBT and talk about the prospect of studying in and playing for the blue and white. Coach LA was very accommodating and accepting, as well as the current players of the team who I was able to meet. My tryout went well, and I was able to foster supportive relationships with my soon-to-be teammates. From then on, I was sure to choose Ateneo.

Aside from what I currently look for in a college, I also want a college that would support and complement my personal goals. I want to give my best and be my best on the court, and I believe that being in the AWBT can push me to it since the team and the school's goal is excellence. The team and Ateneo inspire and support me to be the best I can be. Off the court, on the other hand, I want an education that can challenge me and bring me to another level. I believe the quality education in Ateneo can deliver this and more.

Now that my freshman year is fast approaching, I am both nervous and excited. This is a new chapter in my life and my career that I can't wait to unfold. I am looking forward to learning new things, facing more demanding challenges, being more involved, adjusting to the Ateneo culture, meeting new people, and discovering the best version of myself.