Gianne Paulo D. Muñoz will lead the 2024 graduating class of the College of Management as the top student with the highest GWA of 1.35, earning magna cum laude honors in the BS Management program.
Gianne Paulo describes himself as someone who is always committed to lifelong learning. It is no surprise that after graduation he intends to continue his academic pursuits. “I intend to gain significant experience in the professional field while simultaneously preparing for advanced academic endeavors. My ultimate aspiration is to become a CPA lawyer.”
His UP education has made a great impact on him. It has given him a complete shift in perspective and helped him understand so many things after coming from a private school education. It is in UP, according to him, that he “recognized that everyone has their own unique struggles, challenges, and story. It revealed to me the real divide and gaps that I previously failed to see when I was shielded from harsh realities. The university opened my eyes to these truths, fostering a deeper understanding and empathy that profoundly transformed how I engage in both my personal and professional relationships.”
Gianne Paulo was so inspired by UP’s core values of honor, excellence, and service that he has become conscious of his responsibility as a UP scholar. “The symbol of the Oblation that I’ve witnessed standing steadfast through day and night, warm and cold; represents a sense of commitment, honor, sacrifice, and selflessness. This has kept me grounded and reminded me of the importance of giving back to the society that trusted my abilities as an “Iskolar ng Bayan.”
Entering the university in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, he faced the challenge of remote learning with a sense of uncertainty amidst a sense of fear, loss, and grief. However, he valued more the relationship formed upon resumption of face-to-face classes post-pandemic: “I realized the importance of building a strong support network within and outside the university. This network became my anchor during tough weeks and the most demanding deadlines, reminding me that life extends beyond the confines of the classroom and the campus.”
Gianne Paulo has also been actively engaged in both academic and non-academic organizations, including as Secretary-General of UP Capizeños Iloilo City Campus. He was involved in organizing various events within the College of Management and through other organizations with initiatives for Indigenous communities and local artisans. His research interest was in financial management, agricultural, and aquatic management research, which focused on the marginalized. He has been active in volunteer work outside of UP, having participated in activities conducted by the Red Cross Capiz chapter, the UNICEF Foundation, the Global Peace Foundation, and the SM Cares Foundation.
While graduation ceremonies could have been a time to celebrate with one’s family, Gianne Carlo would be missing his parents. “I lost my mom when I was 13, and my dad in 2021. Having them here would bring me immense happiness and pride. Their sacrifices have always been my motivation and driving force. I owe all my success to their unwavering love, support, and guidance.”
