By Aliya Janeo

It’s getting hot in here and it’s not just the sun.

Every school year a new fire is lit and the legacy of the Ateneo Senior High School (ASHS) is passed onto the next batch of seniors. This April is the time for the juniors to exercise their right to vote and be the match that ignites a new era of student leadership.

The Student Body: The Council’s Fuel

Any good leader comes with traits that solidify why their peers should vote for them, but it’s also important that the future leaders of the ASHS lend their ears to the people they’ll be serving. It’s not easy to lead a group output, so leading a whole unit of over 500 students makes the job ten times more challenging. The best thing the ASHS can have are leaders who are willing to be spokesperson for the students and are ready to mold themselves to the needs of the student body. Similarly, let’s take a look at what exactly the ASHS students look for in their next batch of student leaders. 

What will you be looking for when voting for next school year’s leaders? 

It’s vital for any leader to possess traits that will assist them in creating a better future for their fellow students. Gaining an insight into the kind of leaders the student body is looking for does not mean candidates should completely change themselves for the sake of approval; to hear the general opinion means to adjust to the student body’s needs, whilst still staying true to one’s self. 

“I’m pretty sure almost all of the leaders are qualified, however, I am looking for someone who is willing to speak out for the student body. Someone who will think of everyone when making a decision. Other than that, I am also looking for someone who takes swift action and promotes inclusivity” – Paula Polloso, Student from 11-Fontoura

“[For] the change they plan to implement because most of our running candidates have similar platforms and I want to see how it will come into fruition to ensure that they stick to their words and that their promises will be the change that they want to see in this school. When it comes to deciding who I want to vote for, it’s not about who I know or who I am closer with, it’s about the connection they are able to build with the people. Their visions do not benefit only some people, but benefit everyone because this school aims to be a person for and with others. But that would only be attainable with a responsible leader leading the people towards a brighter path.” – Leah Rivera, Student from 11-Brebeuf

“The two most essential qualities I look for in a leader are empathy and integrity. I believe that while anyone can assume the role of a leader, only a few can maintain these qualities to excel in leading that are often overlooked.” – Julianne Rabago, Student from 11-Fontoura

What are improvements do you think next school year’s leaders need to implement, or any aspect of the ASHS you think they can address?

Listening to the student body is one of the bare minimum aspects that students expect from their leaders. Their leaders are meant to be representatives willing to speak up and find alternative solutions to pressing issues observed in the community. 

“For me, communication with their council should be done more effectively as it is essential for successfully implementing future projects, despite possible setbacks.” – Julianne Rabago, student from 11-Fontoura

“In general, I think that there are a lot of things that can be improved, although I find that the planning and executions of big projects are one of the many things that next school year’s leaders can work on. Specifically, I think it would be nice if some improvements could be made to allow things such as involving the whole ASHS community more in making certain decisions.” – Jean Justo, Student from 11-Grande

“I really have to emphasize on the connection because I’ve seen how divided people can be. In order for progression, mobility, and innovation to take place, we have to be able to function as a whole because it’s not 50/50. It’s not 50% leaders and 50% the students, instead it’s everyone giving 100% in order to achieve the common good. The leaders have to listen to what the students need because their job is for the people and with the people. They have to know how to handle both internal and external conflict. They have to know viable solutions to problems such as the heat index, lack of participation from students, and most importantly coordination when it comes to tasks because everyone is constantly tired and drained which is something that we need to shed a light on.” – Leah Rivera, Student from 11-Brebeuf

Is there anything you think next school year’s leaders can do to make our last SHS year and the incoming juniors’ first, more enjoyable?

Further emphasizing what was said above, the students are a driving force in how leaders thrive. Although the leaders have the power to leave an impact, what good is there in platforms if it isn’t meant to serve and listen to the students? Experience is the best teacher, and the student body has a variety of these that the future leaders may choose to address.

“I think they can host more events and schoolwide activities to give everybody a memory to remember.” – A student from 11-Torres

“Maybe just have more events where juniors and seniors have the chance to grow and interact” – Paula Polloso, Student from 11-Fontoura

“For the next school year to be enjoyable for all, I believe that our leaders can continue implementing projects and hosting events that would create opportunities for us to be able to bond and create memories that we would treasure.” – Jean Justo, Student from 11-Grande

Passing The Torch

As the school year comes to a close and the juniors become seniors and the seniors become college freshmen, it’s time to look back at the spark this school year’s leaders have brought. Whether it’s through well thought-out projects, openness to questions and new ideas or through nurturing guidance– this school year’s seniors have made junior year an eye-opening experience full of twists and turns.

These seniors have witnessed first-hand what it was like to carry such a heavy responsibility for an entire school, which is why it’s helpful to understand what qualities or traits the council as it is today possesses, as we reflect on what makes a good student government. 

As stated by STEM Chairperson Ika Baquir, “Some qualities I really look for in a leader is of course their passion, authenticity, consistency, and dedication. But the one I look for the most is a leader na marunong makisalamuha. It is so important that a leader really immerses themself with the people they serve beyond the project, events and meetings. It is in being open, being approachable, and being there for your people in which you are able to truly foster an inclusive and united community.”

Furthermore, student leaders are not all ‘leaders’, but they also have to manage the ‘student’ aspect of their lives. It’s ideal that the student body has leaders who can serve as reliable role models, and show that they can stay on top of their leadership duties alongside being academically capable. 

Then again, no one escapes burn out. Being a senior high school student is hard enough; and with leadership on top of that—it’s like asking for a complete energy drain.

To counter this, GA Council Secretary Cassey Damian notes: “…one important factor that helped me through it all is rest. Take the opportunity to sleep, nap, eat, or watch your favorite shows when the time allows. Once you have the energy to push through, you will find the aptitude to persevere with your academic, leadership, and personal lives. You will have the strength to accomplish your deliverables, you will have the motivation to study and get your assignments done, and you will have the time to spend with your loved ones. With all of this, time management is truly essential. This skill will be tested many times…You will not be able to become the leader you promised people to be if you can not even provide yourself the peace or guidance you said you would give them.”

The ASHS is in good hands. It has a great roster of candidates who are ready to set the school ablaze with their capabilities and platforms, should they be given the chance to lead by their fellow students. Throughout their leadership, it’s important for our future leaders to keep in mind that everything they do is for the benefit of the student body, not their glory. No leader is perfect or should completely change themselves for the satisfaction of their peers. As long as they’re willing to internalize criticism and apply it to projects that further fuel the growth of the ASHS and its students, the future is bright. 

Everyone wants to leave a mark wherever they go, something to remember them by. As we all move embark on the next chapter of our lives, Sanggunian President Ino Maxino tells us that: 

“Ang tanging maiiwan ko sa paaralang ito ay ang kaisipang sinubukan na nating lumaban, sinubukan na nating tahakin ang iba’t ibang landas. Hindi man matagumpay parati ngunit nakita natin kung paano naging magkakaagapay ang bawat isa. At ito ang ating kinakailangang ipagpatuloy. Tandaan natin na walang perpekto sa mundo at ang pagbabago at bahagi ng ating buhay. Ngunit hindi ibig sabihin noon na kinakailangan na nating panghinaan ng loob.”