Breakfast with the AUA grantees: Care beyond the classroom

Dean Jose Maria G Hofileña, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Ma. Ngina Teresa V Chan-Gonzaga, and some members of the Financial Aid Committee sat down over breakfast on 13 August 2025 with Ateneo de Manila University School of Law’s Aid Upon Admission (AUA) grantees. It was a time to check in, listen, and connect.

Dean Hofileña reminded everyone that a grant is never just financial support. It is an investment that is hoped to bear fruit in the form of their successfully completing the ALS law program and their becoming lawyers who will contribute to the betterment of the world. Associate Dean Chan-Gonzaga emphasized ALS’ faith in their ability to keep up with the rigor of law school’s academic demands and hope for their future as lawyers.

But these moments are about more than academics; they’re about hearing each grantee’s story, celebrating their wins, and walking with them through challenges. So as the meal progressed the grantees shared their thoughts, worries, concerns, and joys with their lives in ALS. 

The Law School Administration remains committed to connecting with all its students and extending aid, be it professional or financial, when possible.

About the Aid-Upon-Admission Grants and its Grantees

Launched in 2021, the Aid Upon Admission (AUA) Grant extends the Law School’s longstanding Financial Aid Program to incoming first-year students. ALS recognizes that financial hurdles should not stand in the way of legal formation. Offered upon admission, the AUA grant covers tuition and fees (excluding the confirmation fee), and is awarded based on a combination of academic merit, integrity, and demonstrated financial need.

Most of the Academic Year 2025-2026’s AUA grantees were student leaders who also distinguished themselves as Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Cum Laude,  and Honorable Mention graduates. They represent more than half the regions across the country and share an unwavering commitment to become lawyers who “are not only skilled in the science and art of the law but also leaders imbued with a burning passion for justice and the desire to serve the nation for the greater glory of God” in line with the Ateneo Law School’s vision.