A Day in My Life as an EdD Student: Exams, New Connections, and Sweet Rewards

Some days remind us that pursuing our dreams is never easy, but every step brings us closer to the people we aspire to become. Today was one of those days—a combination of academic challenges, new friendships, appreciation, and simple moments of happiness that made all the hard work worthwhile.

As an educator, my days are usually filled with lesson preparation, classroom responsibilities, school activities, and other tasks that require my time and energy. But beyond my responsibilities as a teacher, I have another role to fulfill: being a Doctor of Education (EdD) student. Returning to graduate school is another chapter in my journey, a reminder that learning does not stop when we become teachers. Instead, it opens more opportunities for growth, reflection, and self-improvement.

Today, I met my classmates in person for the first time at President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU). It was refreshing to finally see the people I share this academic journey with finally. We may have different backgrounds, experiences, and reasons for pursuing our degrees, but we share one common goal: to keep learning and become better versions of ourselves. Meeting them made the experience more meaningful. I realized this journey would be about more than earning a degree; it would be about building connections and learning from one another.

Of course, the day would not be complete without our midterm examination. Taking an exam can be stressful, especially when we are already balancing professional responsibilities with academic commitments. Sitting down to answer questions reminded me of the importance of preparation, perseverance, and time management. Being a teacher does not mean we already know everything. We, too, have lessons to study, questions to answer, and challenges to overcome. Sometimes, we must return to being students to understand what it truly means to keep learning.

Despite the pressure of the examination, we also found a meaningful way to celebrate our profession. We gave our professors gifts as a belated Teachers' Day celebration. It was a simple gesture, but it carried a heartfelt message of appreciation. As teachers ourselves, we understand the value of recognizing the people who guide, inspire, and share their knowledge with others. It was a beautiful reminder that appreciation does not always have to come on the exact date. Sometimes, what matters most is the sincerity behind the gesture.

After a long, tiring day of examinations, conversations, and academic responsibilities, I finally had my little reward: a delicious Crema de Leche dessert. It may seem like a simple thing, but after everything I accomplished that day, it felt special. Sometimes, happiness comes from the smallest things—a sweet treat, a good conversation, or the satisfaction of knowing we have done our best.

As I ended my day, I felt tired but grateful. Being a teacher and an EdD student at the same time is not always easy, but days like this remind me why I started. Every examination, new connection, and learning experience contributes to my personal and professional growth.

Today was more than just a midterm examination day. It reminded me that dreams require effort, growth requires courage, and success is made up of both big achievements and little moments of joy.

After a long day of learning and striving, sometimes all we need is a sweet reminder that we deserve to celebrate how far we have come.