Life’s challenges often serve as the greatest teachers, shaping character in ways that comfort never could.
For many Filipino students, financial hurdles make higher education seem out of reach. But with the right support, these challenges become stepping stones to success. Dr. Daisy Rosario, an SM Scholar alumna, is proof of this transformation. Graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1998 with a Bachelor of Elementary Education, she turned opportunity into lifelong service.
Beginning of the journey of giving
For Dr. Daisy Rosano, becoming an SM scholar was the opportunity that paved the way for a journey of academic excellence and service.
Coming from a family with aging parents and a sibling in school, having her education covered was a weight off of their shoulders.
“I was qualified for another scholarship, but it only covered tuition. At that time, there were two of us in school, and our parents were nearing retirement, so financial assistance was of great help,” she recalled.
Building confidence and character
While the scholarship gave her the means to fulfill her childhood dream of becoming a teacher, the scholarship provided additional support that helped build her confidence and character. She valued the retreats, gatherings, friendships formed with scholars from other universities, and the opportunity to travel and broaden her perspective.
“I was fortunate to receive holistic training as an SM scholar,” she said. “I highly appreciated the yearly retreats and get-togethers. It was fun that I had friends from other universities. I also had the privilege of traveling to Manila and attending a retreat in Tagaytay with other scholars.”
Throwback. Dr. Rosano (standing; second from left) and other SM Scholars from Visayas snaps a photo with Mrs. Felicidad Tan Sy, SM Group Founder Henry Sy, Sr., and SM Foundation President Jose Sio (seated; first, second and third from left).
One of the defining experiences for her was the summer job opportunity at then SM Iloilo (now SM City Iloilo).
“The experience gave me a firsthand understanding of employment and the responsibility it entails,” she shared. “Earning my own money and using it for my needs was both empowering and eye-opening.” This opportunity not only taught her financial independence but also reinforced the value of hard work and perseverance.
The discipline she developed as an SM Scholar pushed her to achieve even more. “Every year, I was an awardee for academic excellence, even though I believed I was just an ordinary student,” she shared. Her dedication earned her another scholarship from the Commission on Higher Education, which unlocked more possibilities.
A scholar for life
The values Dr. Daisy gained as an SM scholar extended far beyond graduation. “It’s a transformation from being shy to having an enhanced self-efficacy,” she recalled.
Driven by her passion for learning, she earned her master’s degree, eventually earning a doctorate as well as a second master’s degree in design education with distinction from Goldsmiths University of London.
SM Scholar alumna Daisy Rosano earned her second master’s degree in education from a university in London, graduating with distinction.
Her early work experiences—particularly her summer job training when she was 17—gave her the confidence and resilience to take on leadership roles. She is currently West Visayas State University’s (WVSU) Director for Distance Education.
She is also a mentor, shaping the next generation of teachers. “It’s the spirit of giving back and paying forward. As I teach preservice teachers who will soon become teachers of young learners, I can create a more substantial ripple effect.”
“From my SM scholarship, I learned that giving one’s best at all times yields fruit; thus, I instill the same in my students.”
Dr. Rosano now serves as West Visayas State University’s (WVSU) Director for Distance Education.
Passing on the kindness
Inspired by SM Foundation, Dr. Daisy actively spreads social good as she also leads a team that teaches literacy or remedial reading classes to Persons Deprived of Liberty-Alternative Learning System learners on Saturdays.
“This kind of advocacy is part of what I learned from the SM Foundation—to help vulnerable communities,” she said. “The foundation’s generosity has instilled in me a deep sense of social responsibility, motivating me to contribute actively to my community,” she said.
Having come a long way, she continues to give her best for her family: “Beyond the essential support to my parents as they age, I was able to let them travel abroad.”
The SM College Scholarship Program ignited Dr. Daisy’s passion for excellence, mentorship, and service to family and the community. She hopes to inspire future scholars by showing how education can open doors to limitless possibilities.
The SM College Scholarship application for the school year 2025-2026 is open until March 31, 2025. To learn more, visit www.sm-foundation.org.
