It was on the 24th night of August when Ryan's heart was filled with glee and overwhelming gratitude. After two years of his term as president, at last again, his service was receiving recognition. It was when he was called as the Most Outstanding Student Leader in the 2nd SASCO Awards of Cavite State University- Rosario. The night that his heart would reminisce and his mind would always remember.
"Last but definitely not the least, from the Future Hotelier and Restaurateur Student Society, Ryan Christian Mercado Alonzo," he heard as Mr. Bautista called him by name. Standing up from his seat, he began to see the glistening smiles of his fellow officers and listen to the loud clapping of the crowd. And as he walked through the red carpet, he couldn't help but to think about all the things that he had gone through his life to be someone he knew he was born into, to be a leader, with a heart, desire, and compassion.
In the 19 years of his life, Ryan learned to honor the value of family. Born on 17th of June 1998 as the fifth and youngest child of Rolando and Melinda Alonzo, he had always motivated himself to do his best at almost everything that he does. It was his way of repaying the sacrifice and support of his origins.
He was also taught to value the gift of education. He graduated his primary and secondary education at Rosario Elementary School and Rosario National High School. Now, he was currently taking Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management and also a part of the graduating class of the CvSU-Rosario.
Slowly, he took every day as steps in achieving his success. He believed that education would be his weapon in paving the way to his dreams. This was proved by his consistency as a Vice President Lister of the University.
But he knew that education alone would not be enough. He also believed that to be successful in life requires A.S.K. - Attitude, Skills, and Knowledge.
Honing his A.S.K., he became a member of the Task Force on Youth Development Kanluran in their community. He was also a National Certificate II FBS Holder. But one of his greatest accomplishment would surely was to be an officer of F.H.A.R.S.S., from Assistant Treasurer and now President. The organization served as his haven in showcasing and developing his skills, not only as a leader, but also as a person, a son, and a student.
Smile began to form as Ryan stood in the center stage. He looked at the crowd, all might yet humbled, and honored as he received the fruit of his hard work. He looked at the cameraman ready to take a shot, a shot to a man who was born to lead. It was a moment of his life that would never be forgotten.