Lessons in humility and heart from a valedictorian
While most graduation speeches focus on personal achievements and overcoming challenges, Tricia Ann G. Anda’s address at the University of St. La Salle Bacolod’s 68th commencement stood out. A Bachelor of Science in Psychology graduate and summa cum laude, Tricia’s speech went viral on video and in text as her words warmed hearts, including mine.
My pillow was suddenly wet with tears before getting up this morning as I chanced upon the video on TikTok. Her speech was a powerful reminder of the true meaning and measure of success, moving beyond grades and accolades.
Here are some of the things that struck me. First, Tricia began her speech with a powerful question: “What if the real valedictorians are not the ones standing on the stage but are quietly seated among you right now?” In an age of me-culture, it is refreshing to see a young woman redirect the attention when she had all the chances to keep it on herself.
Celebrating her heroes
She continued, “If I could remove this medal from my neck and give it to someone else, I would. I would hand it to my classmate who worked online jobs and part-time shifts between classes, some with cracked phones, borrowed laptops, selling food, art, anything just to make ends meet.”
Recognizing the struggles others go through in a society where narcissism becomes the norm brought me to tears. She even said, “Maybe I earned the highest GPA, but they earned my deepest respect.” Tricia reminded us that some of the greatest victories are won not in the spotlight, but in the quiet, persistent struggles of everyday life.
Tricia openly addressed her privileged background, sharing that she lived comfortably without financial worries or the need to endure daily hardships to attend school.
She shared, “I lived comfortably my whole life. I did not have to worry about tuition. I did not have to wake up at 4:00 a.m. to catch a jeep or walk to school before sunrise. I did not have to juggle work between classes just to pay enrollment. From preschool up to fourth-year college, I was driven to school. My meals were served, my uniforms ironed. All I had to do was to show up.”
Tricia’s honesty and admission did not diminish her achievement. She elevated her character when she gave recognition to peers “who showed up with tired eyes but had hearts that refused to quit.”
Imagine if more of us would see things and people the way she did—how much better would our relationships and environments be?
The Chrysalis
Tricia’s use of the chrysalis as a metaphor for a quiet, unseen space where strength and resilience develop is refreshing.
She stated, “And that is when I understood what a chrysalis is. It is where strength grows quietly in places no one applauds that some of the strongest wings form in silence.”
Used to a lot of things being broadcast by Facebook or Instagram friends on their feeds, I am encouraged by Tricia’s words to honor the silent but diligent work that shapes genuine character and strength for a lot of people offline.
Tricia’s words, “Let us not just fly for ourselves, but become wings for others too,” touched me deeply. She pushed for kindness and selflessness, reminding the graduates that their achievements should serve a greater purpose, not just for themselves but also for others.
Obviously, for the young achiever, success is a collective project. She paid tribute to parents and families, the janitors, security guards, and the maintenance staff.
The proud acknowledgment of Tricia’s faith was most inspiring. She said it beautifully, “To the one whose name I’ve whispered in every prayer, thank you, Jesus. You carried me through it all, and this victory is yours. Indeed, there is power in the name of Jesus.” True humility often comes from recognizing a power greater than oneself. She added a piece of advice many of us tend to forget in a competitive arena: “And as we fly, may we carry not just ambition, but kindness, courage, purpose, and humility.”
Tricia’s words are proof that humility and having a heart for others are not yet lost. She is a clear example of hope that needs to multiply for the next generations to thrive. And when she spoke of those conquering silent battles by saying, “They never asked to be seen, but I saw them,” may we be reminded that in a world that celebrates individuals, human dignity is still about love, compassion, and a sense of community.
In the end, how a person lives with and for others is the true measure of success.
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