Kassy Yana Bati-el Pasiwen, a proud Cordilleran from Conner, Apayao, has recently achieved an impressive milestone by ranking 9th in the 2024 Psychometrician Licensure Exam with a rating of 86.50%. Her journey to this success was marked by significant personal challenges that underscore her determination and resilience.
Growing up in a family deeply committed to service, Yana is the firstborn of Dr. Teresita Pasiwen, the Municipal Health Officer of LGU Conner, and PCol. Reynaldo Pasiwen. Her upbringing was characterized by a strong sense of helping others. However, during her second year of college, her path faced a severe test when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. This diagnosis had a profound impact on Yana, who adjusted her schedule to accompany her mother to chemotherapy sessions every Thursday.
Reflecting on this period, Yana shared, "It was heartbreaking for me and everyone around her. I remember crying a lot in church when she announced it. But my mom is a fighter; even with that diagnosis, she was determined to stay physically and mentally strong, continuing to work at the RHU between treatments. Her strength inspired us all."
Balancing Studies and Caregiving
Managing her studies alongside caregiving responsibilities was a considerable challenge for Yana. While her peers focused on their studies, celebrated their graduations, and enjoyed college life, Yana handled the added responsibility of caring for her ailing mother.
She said, "Taking care of your ailing mother is usually expected during middle adulthood, not in one's emerging adulthood years. I learned to accept the situation and worked with it."
As the board exams approached, the situation became even more demanding. On June 25, 2024, just 47 days before the exam, Yana's mother was admitted to the hospital for severe headaches, and her grandmother passed away on the same day. Despite these setbacks, Yana continued her preparation, studying outside the ICU where her mother was confined. When her mother fell into a coma 34 days before the exam, Yana's resolve remained strong.
"It was physically, mentally, and emotionally draining," Yana admitted. Though she faced moments of doubt and considered withdrawing from the exam, the support from her family, especially her mother, kept her motivated. Yana set a goal to complete one core book per week, even while dealing with significant stress and emotional strain.
Academic Excellence and Support
Kassy's academic achievements were significantly supported by the Department of Science and Technology's Junior Level Science Scholarships (DOST-JLSS). She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Saint Louis University (SLU) with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. The DOST-JLSS scholarship was instrumental in her academic journey, covering tuition fees and providing stipends that allowed her to focus entirely on her studies without financial stress.
In Yana's words, "Receiving the DOST-JLSS scholarship was both a privilege and a responsibility. The honor of being a DOST Scholar motivated me to strive for academic excellence. The scholarship covered my tuition fees and provided stipends that allowed me to manage my own needs, giving me the financial stability to focus on my studies. Beyond that, it boosted my confidence and validated my academic abilities."
Overcoming Personal Challenges
Despite the crucial support from the scholarship, Kassy faced significant personal challenges during her exam preparation. Her mother's diagnosis of a brain tumor in May 2024, a recurrence of breast cancer, created additional obstacles. Frequent hospitalizations and her mother's eventual coma were major trials. Yet, Kassy showed remarkable perseverance.
She reflected, "It was tough, both physically and emotionally. There were moments when I thought of giving up, but I kept going for my mom, my family, and everyone who believed in me."
The DOST-JLSS scholarship provided more than just financial aid. It offered opportunities such as the Scholar's Leadership Camp and the National Patriot Scholars Congress, connecting Kassy with a network of supportive individuals and reinforcing her commitment to community service.
Kassy said, "The Scholar's Leadership Camp and the National Patriot Scholars Congress were invaluable. They connected me with a community of like-minded individuals and reinforced my commitment to giving back to my community as a patriot scholar."
A Testament to Perseverance
Kassy Yana Bati-el Pasiwen's success in the Psychometrician Licensure Exam, with a top 10 ranking and an impressive rating of 86.50%, stands as a powerful example of resilience and the impact of strong support systems. Her achievements bring pride to her family, her hometown of Conner, and the province of Apayao. Yana's story demonstrates how overcoming adversity and remaining committed to one's goals can lead to remarkable success.
