Benreo Rex N. Rembulat, a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics student of the College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV-CAS), is the valedictorian of the UPV class of 2023, after earning a 1.10975 general weighted average (GWA).
Rembulat, despite earning top honors, is no stranger to the challenges of the University, citing “networking and building connections with my peers and professionals” as his toughest hurdle as a student.
He admitted that he does not easily trust people when it comes to accomplishing tasks as a team, but “understood the value of teamwork and networking in both personal and professional growth,” leading to his tenure as a student leader for the UPV Elektrons and UPV Mathematics Circle.
“It has not been an easy journey for me – it was actually slow and steady, but what I accomplished right now enriched my university experience,” said Rembulat who describes himself as a “quiet and reserved student.”
As for his immediate future, UPV’s class of 2023 valedictorian said he plans on taking his Master’s in Computer Science at UP Diliman.
While the said degree seems like a deviation from his undergraduate course, Rembulat explained that he is fascinated by how data can be utilized to make meaningful predictions and drive impactful decisions.
“It has always been my passion to be at the forefront of technological innovation, and I believe that taking this degree program will equip me with the necessary knowledge and skill set to achieve this goal,” he said. He also hopes to find a career that “is close to helping the community and creating a positive change in society through data-driven solutions.”
Being adaptable to change is a crucial life skill that UP taught Rembulat, saying encountering many challenges with diverse demands and expectations during his stay at the University has prepared him to navigate through the uncertainties of life with resilience and determination.
“As a student leader, a part-time employee, and an academic scholar at the same time, I learned how to set my priorities straight, manage my time effectively, and balance responsibilities while keeping a stable mental and physical well-being. With that said, I am kind of proud that I thrived in an environment that constantly pushed me out of my comfort zone and enabled me to develop this valuable life skill,” he said.
