Pathways alumnus strives to blaze a trail

A “summer school in Ateneo” was how an upperclassman described Pathways to Higher Education’s Academic Formation programs to Denzel S D Domingo. Then a high school freshman, Domingo wanted to join but learned that he had to be in 2nd year to be eligible for the program.

“I like to try things out, especially in summer. The fact that it was conducted in Ateneo was a plus point so I was interested,” he said.

What Domingo did not know was that his “summer school” would help pave the way for many changes in his life.

Through Pathways, Domingo was able to study at the Ateneo de Manila University, graduating in 2015 with an AB History degree.

Pathways’ Academic Formation programs “helped me with my lessons,” Domingo said. “I have been with Pathways since third-year high school and I chose to stay because it offers something unique,” he said.

That “something unique” is Pathways Trailblazers leadership curriculum.  Pathways conducts advanced classes for public high school students, helping them prepare for the rigors of college life. Mentoring sessions are part of the program – students are allowed to interact, learn and be inspired to become future leaders.

“Since Day 1, Pathways already made it clear that as trailblazers, we must live out the Pathways core values of commitment to excellence, love of learning, integrity, solidarity and service to others.  I’d love to incorporate these values in my life,” Domingo said.

He recalled a time when another Pathways participant started a campaign to help the victims of Typhoon Yolanda.

“One might say that it was a wrong move since we all came from financially challenged communities but what made it interesting was that many of us answered that call. It touched me on a personal level because it showed that indeed, regardless of our status in life, we have become servants to our society,” he said.

Now in its 14th year, Pathways continues to enlighten and empower disadvantaged students by opening doors to education. As for Domingo, the young man is now officially part of the Pathways team. He hopes to pass on to others what Pathways has done for him.

“Pathways changed my life on so many levels. It changed me mentally by broadening the way I see things. It made me realize that I have so much potential even if I’m from a public high school and that I can also help others; that I’m not a victim of my circumstances but rather, I have the capacity to change my circumstances, “ he said.