Justin Cua: His Blueprint in Academics and Personal Development
Justin Cua: His Blueprint in Academics and Personal Development
8 August 2024
Justin Cua, a recent graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Architecture program at Benilde, graduated Cum Laude and received the Br. Andrew Gonzales FSC Leadership Award. The Br. Andrew Gonzales FSC Leadership Award is given to students who excel academically and have made a positive impact through active involvement in student groups. These honors serve as testaments to his dedication to both academics and leadership like no other.
Looking back at his time at Benilde, Justin cites his extracurricular activities as the most impactful part of his experience. “It was a breath of fresh air from my academics. I got to meet new people and develop myself personally and in a mature manner,” he said. He also credits Benilde’s Architecture program for preparing him well for his future career. The program’s integration of historical and environmental knowledge, critical thinking, and artistic vision provided him with the tools to design innovative and sustainable solutions. “Architecture courses greatly changed the way I think. For example, ARCDES or Architectural Design courses reshaped my design philosophy. And then there are the Building Technology courses, which made me more interested in the details of how we build our infrastructures and structures,” he explained. The general subjects also shifted his perspective on life, emphasizing the importance of personal ideologies. “I didn’t expect it to change how I perceive life, and it made me realize how important it is to have your own beliefs and philosophy in the future,” he added.
Balancing extracurricular activities with academics was particularly challenging when Justin served as president of the Social and Academic Guild for Architecture (SAGA). “The most difficult period was when I became president of SAGA, as it caused a significant clash between my extracurricular activities and academic responsibilities,” he said. This experience forced him to reassess his priorities, leading him to make necessary sacrifices and focus his efforts more effectively. “I had to stop and reevaluate my priorities. I knew I had to give up some things and focus more on others,” he explained.
SAGA is the Architecture program’s professional collegiate organization at Benilde. It promotes research, unity, and academic development in architecture, while fostering strong bonds among students.
Justin believes that success is personal and unique to each individual. His advice to students is to understand who they are and what they want. “Success is something only the individual can define for themselves. As a student, you need to discover what you want and need to pave your path to success,” he said. He also suggests that if academics alone are not fulfilling, students should consider taking on roles in organizations or other extracurricular activities. “Success isn’t just about achievements or awards; it’s also about personal growth and experiences,” Justin advised.
Justin graduated on July 27 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
For more information on Benilde’s undergraduate programs, contact us at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1801 or admissions@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit our website at www.benilde.edu.ph.
