Class of 2022 Alumni Spotlight: Ruth Velasco

This Alumni Spotlight series features GenCo Secretary, Ruth Velasco. Ruth was heavily involved in different projects and student organizations while at AISG. She has overcome significant obstacles during her online learning and worked hard on her journey toward her goal to study psychology at university. 

AISG 2022 Graduation Individual

Now that your senior year has ended, was there any moment or event this past year that made a defining impact or lasting impression? 

It’s difficult to think of one specific moment but I remember that my last APAC in Shanghai was the first time it truly struck me that I am graduating this year. It made me realize that I should cherish my time here in China because a few months is not a long time. It’s cheesy and cliché but upon realizing that every moment I hang out with my friends, it has been so memorable and a piece of them will stick with me when I move back to the Philippines.  

AISG 2022 Prom 4 students

How did the IB curriculum affect your perspective towards education? 

Turns out risk-taking is actually a big part of learning. We shouldn’t be scared to take opportunities that seem out of reach cause most times they’re not as out of reach as we thought they were. 

AISG 2022 Seniors Color Run

In regards to the outbreak of COVID-19, what was the biggest challenge you faced and how did you overcome it? 

The biggest challenge was definitely online learning in the Philippines and being separated from my friends in China. The last half of my sophomore year and first semester of my Junior year was spent online with terrible Wi-Fi. I had the biggest FOMO whenever I saw my friends in China freely going out, while I was cloistered in my house. Even though, I was getting the worst FOMO, I’m really grateful that my friends were keeping in contact with me and always catching me up to date with what’s going on with them. Being in Philippines for almost 6 months also allowed me to catch up with some of my old childhood friends and I’m happy to be close with them again.

AISG Students with their Award

Where will you be going to college and what are you looking forward to the most? 

I’ll be attending Ateneo De Manila University in the fall! I’m excited to go back to the Philippines and enculturating myself when I get back. I’ve heard that the Philippines has an intricate history and I can’t wait to learn more. I’m especially excited about finally pursuing Psychology and Japanese Studies, I can’t wait to see what both courses have to offer. I also heard that Ateneo has a great variety of organizations and community services and I’m looking forward to joining these organizations.  

AISG Senior Group Photo for Cross Country

This year we celebrated AISG’s 40th Anniversary. What thoughts or emotions come to mind and what does this mean to you? 

I started attending AISG back in 10th grade, so in comparison to my other classmates I haven’t been at AISG for a long time. Being part of the graduating class during the 40th anniversary is such an honor and I’m so happy that I decided to transfer to AISG and subsequently be a part of the caring community they established here.  

AISG Students Traveling

What advice do you have for current students to make the most of their experience at AISG? 

Always make time just for the things you love and people that you love. Attend school events! Join a club or a sports team. Take advantage of all the opportunities the school has to offer. It allows you to take a break from school and do something you’re passionate about, develop your hobbies, and find new friends and connections. I found out that taking a break and just enjoying my hobbies gives you a boost of energy for school and helps reduce stress.  

What accomplishments do you dream to achieve in the next five years and how will your education at AISG help you achieve these?

Hopefully, I graduate college and make the most of my time there. I’m looking forward to moving out of the Philippines and find new places I can call home. I want to pursue psychology and maybe become a counselor. AISG taught me how to be more independent and confident with the decisions I make.  

AISG Students Group Photo

Ruth's extracurriculars/activities/awards/etc. during her time at AISG: 

  • Cross Country Captain (2021 - 2022)
  • Cross Country Most Improved Player (2019 – 2020)
  • Cross Country Coach’s Choice (2021 – 2022)
  • Special Needs Union Coordinator (2020 - 2022)
  • Basketball (2019 - 2021)
  • GSA (2019 - 2020)
  • Business Club (2019 - 2021) 
  • GenCo Secretary (2021 - 2022)
  • The Beacon Copy Editor (2021 - 2022)

Way to go Ruth and all our Rams from the Class of 2022! We look forward to staying connected and hearing about all your amazing accomplishments in the next chapter of your life!


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