MANILA, Philippnes – At 26, Ara Cherina Buenacosa of Las Piñas proves that destiny isn’t always a straight path — sometimes, it begins with a brave shift.
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| Photo courtesy: Ara Buenacosa |
In 2016, Ara made a life-changing decision to shift from Legal Management to the Psychology program, unaware that it would one day define her purpose. She exclusively shared her story with The Summit Express.
“Studying psychology wasn’t really my dream at first,” she recalled. “But when I shifted to this program, I met so many amazing friends and eventually fell in love with the degree.”
Back then, she didn’t see herself as exceptional — just determined.
“I was never the brightest in my class — I was always the average one, the jack of all trades,” she admitted. “People don’t usually remember the average ones, but I chose to believe in my potential. I just had to believe in myself a little more.”
That quiet belief became the foundation of her journey toward self-discovery.
Then came 2020 — the year that challenged and changed her forever.
“I’m most proud of myself for winning Miss Psychology back in 2020,” she said. “That moment opened the path for me to keep pursuing my dream.”
When lockdowns hit, her academic plans were disrupted — no internship, no thesis defense, no proper graduation. But instead of giving up, she chose to keep moving forward.
That same year, Ara also faced one of her most difficult battles — her own mental health.
“I experienced mental health problems that led me to see a psychologist,” she shared. “That year toughened me up and really solidified my dream.”
“I experienced a lot of burnout while juggling a full-time job, graduate school, and board exam preparation,” Ara shared. “There were nights I cried out of exhaustion, but I reminded myself that every small effort mattered.”
“I’m proud to share that I passed the Psychometrician Licensure Exam last year and finished my master’s degree this year — all while working a full-time job and overcoming my past mental health struggles from the pandemic,” she said. “It wasn’t easy, but it made me stronger and more determined to keep going.”
Today, Ara continues to pursue her passion for psychology. She’s currently enrolled in the country’s first Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program, preparing for the Psychologist Licensure Exam next year, and teaching as a part-time college instructor in Parañaque City.
From a course shifter and “average” student to a confident board passer and aspiring psychologist, Ara Buenacosa’s journey reminds us that believing in yourself can turn even the most unexpected paths into a purpose-driven success story.
— The Summit Express
Congratulations Ara!
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