The Aurora State College of Technology graduate placed Top 9 in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Teachers, earning a rating of 93.40 percent — a proud milestone for her family, ASCOT, and the School of Education community.
“Suddenly, my ate came running to me, crying and jumping with joy as she told me that I am a topnotcher,” Fuentes recalled. “I was completely overwhelmed with emotions and could hardly believe it was real. It felt like a dream that I never wanted to wake up from.”
Behind that dreamlike moment was a season of quiet discipline. Fuentes prepared mostly at home, where comfort also came with distractions, fatigue, and the pressure of mastering a wide range of concepts and terminologies.
“At first, studying in the comfort of my home was difficult because it required a great deal of self-discipline,” she shared. “There were times when long study sessions made me feel sleepy, and the large amount of terminology I needed to memorize became overwhelming.”
Instead of letting pressure win, she adjusted. Fuentes used interactive tools like Quizizz and Gizmo to make learning more engaging and easier to retain. She also began each day with devotion, protected her sleep, and leaned on prayer when things felt heavy.
“I always started my day with devotion because it helped clear my mind and gave me a positive mindset throughout the day,” she said.
“I also made sure to get at least eight hours of sleep every night. Whenever things became difficult and I felt like giving up, prayer became my strength and weapon.”
To future examinees, Fuentes offered a reminder rooted in faith and purpose.
“Do not let doubts and uncertainties limit your dreams and faith. If a dream is planted in your heart, it is there for a reason. When things get tough, always hold on to why it became your dream in the first first place. God is good, so never hesitate to ask Him for guidance and strength,” she said.
More than a rank, Fuentes’ story reminds students that success is built in quiet choices — to study again, to rest well, to adjust when needed, and to keep the faith even before the dream becomes real.
