Redirected. From STE to ABM, Arnie Waje chose his own path and topped it. April 16, 2024. Photo Courtesy: Alexa
In every graduation ceremony, there’s always one story that stands out not because it followed the traditional path, but because it dared to be different. This year, at Isulan National High School, that story belongs to Arnie Waje, who graduated as the valedictorian of his senior high school batch.
But what makes Arnie’s story remarkable isn’t just the medal or the title. It’s the journey unexpected, challenging, and above all, inspiring.
The STE Foundation
Arnie began his high school journey at Isulan National High School, enrolled in the prestigious Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) program. Known for its rigor and competitive environment, STE molded Arnie into a disciplined and curious learner. But when it came time to choose a track in senior high school, he shocked many by making an unexpected move, he shifted to Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM).
Many believed Arnie was destined for the STEM track in senior high school, possibly heading toward careers in engineering, information technology, or medicine. After all, STE was designed to prepare students for exactly that.
But then came a choice that surprised everyone.
The Unexpected Shift
When it was time to choose his senior high school track, Arnie did something that left classmates and even teachers puzzled he chose Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM).
The questions came like a flood:
“Sayang ka.”
“Bakit d’yan ka?”
“Sayang pagiging STE student mo. Bakit hindi ka na lang nag-STEM?”
People couldn’t understand why someone with a strong background in science would switch to business. For many, it felt like a waste of potential. But Arnie had a different vision.
“I’ve always wanted to explore the world of business,” Arnie shared. “STE taught me how to analyze and think critically, but I also had a deep curiosity about entrepreneurship, finance, and leadership. I wanted to grow in a new direction.”
The Struggles Begin
The switch wasn’t easy. Moving from a science-focused program to one rooted in finance, economics, and marketing meant Arnie had to adjust his learning style and mindset. The concepts were new, the terminologies unfamiliar, and the pressure of proving himself heavier than ever.
“There were nights when I barely slept,” he recalled. “I was trying to catch up, learn everything from scratch, and at the same time, prove to others and to myself that I made the right choice.”
He faced moments of doubt. He missed the familiarity of his STE background. But more than that, he carried the burden of others’ expectations and criticisms.
Standing Strong
But Arnie didn’t let the doubts drown him. He used them as motivation.
He poured his heart into his ABM life. He became actively involved in school activities, often taking on leadership roles. He built strong relationships with mentors and classmates, learning from every success and every mistake. What set Arnie apart was not just his academic ability, but his work ethic and his resilience. He showed that greatness doesn’t depend on the path you choose, but on how committed you are to walking it.
By the time graduation neared, Arnie had become one of the most respected and admired students in school not just in ABM, but across all strands.
A Moment of Victory
When the announcement came that Arnie Waje had earned the valedictorian medal, it was not just a personal victory, it was a milestone. He had proven that shifting directions doesn’t mean giving up your potential. On the contrary, it means having the courage to chase growth in your own way. As he delivered his valedictory address, there were no more murmurs of doubt, no more questions about his decision. Only applause, admiration, and a sense of pride for the boy who chose a different path and turned it into gold.
Proof of Possibility
Arnie’s story isn’t just one of academic excellence but a reflection of character, purpose, and perseverance. He didn’t just graduate as valedictorian; he redefined what success can look like when you follow your heart.
His story reminds us that success doesn’t always come from staying on the expected path. Sometimes, it comes from listening to your own voice, trusting your instincts, and believing in the power of change.
To those who doubted him, he answers with a medal.
To those who supported him. he offers his heartfelt gratitude.
And to future dreamers he leaves behind a trail that proves it’s okay to take a different road.
