This Filipina working mother in Australia proves that anything is possible as long as you keep your eyes on the prize. Zarah Denese Magpantay Tenorio-Ramoso graduated with a Bachelor of Law “summa cum laude” from the prestigious Charles Darwin University.
Being a working mother is already a challenge in itself. Imagine, juggling your responsibilities as a mother and studying tirelessly in law school. Zarah Denise proved it can be done if you set your heart out on a goal.
Summa cum laude in law school
Zarah arrived in Australia in 2013. She is currently working as an office employee at the Office of the Ombudsman in Northern Territory, Australia. She is also a wife and a mother of two children. Despite all the demanding tasks of being a working mom, she still graduated with flying colors in law school.
Zarah recalled her feeling when she received her notification that she will graduate with the highest honor, summa cum laude.
She shared with Annalyn Mabini of TFC News Australia, “Parang nag-flash back po lahat ng pagpupuyat, pag-aaral at pagsisikap ko for the past four years.”
“Sobrang overwhelmed po ako, dati pangarap ko lang, ngayon nandito na,” she added.
Zarah overcomes challenges
According to her, reaching her goal wasn’t a walk in the park at all. She had to beat deadlines and fight stress. Zarah said, “Mahirap po kasi, e. Nakakapagod, nakaka-stress at minsan parang walang time to complete everything within the deadline.”
Like many students, Zarah admitted studying online during the pandemic was very challenging. She had trouble managing her time and endless tasks. But not one to give up, the hardworking student decided to keep a routine.
“I wake up at 3:00 a.m. every day para mag-aral. Nakasanayan ko na po yun, mas madali kasi for me to study early in the morning,” she recalled.
Inspiring other immigrants and mothers
Zarah also inspired other working immigrants to just hold on until they reach their goals. She admitted that working in a foreign land is not one but if you are determined, nothing is impossible.
“I hope my fellow Filipinos po na makakabasa nito, take the time to get out of their comfort zone and pursue their passion,” she said.
Zarah also encouraged other mothers to continue pursuing their passions.
“Kung may pangarap po kayo, work for it. Do it for yourself. If you don’t want to do it for yourself, do it for your children,” she remarked.
