Jamie Marie Lucading, a 21-year-old dreamer, has an inspiring story of perseverance and dedication. She was born and raised in Matikis, Talavera, Nueva Ecija. Jamie is the eldest of four children of Mr. and Mrs. Jaime Lucading. She graduated from Muñoz National High School and continued her Senior High program of Humanities and Social Sciences strand at Far Eastern University Manila. She finished her academic journey with a degree in AB Creative Writing from the University of Santo Tomas (UST), graduating Magna Cum Laude.
Growing up, Jamie had a lot of fond memories despite her parents having her at a young age—her father was 22 and her mother was 19, making it financially difficult to provide for their family. The financial strain was a constant challenge, especially as Jamie pursued higher education. Jamie recalls being an average student during her grade school years, but her potential began to shine in high school, where she thrived in a competitive environment and graduated with honors. Jamie’s passion for reading and writing, combined with her ambition to become a lawyer, drove her to excel academically and seek opportunities that would help her achieve her dreams. College brought new challenges as she felt the pressure of being a role model for her younger siblings and fulfilling her parents’ high expectations. Despite financial constraints, Jamie’s determination and her parents’ unwavering support propelled her forward.
During her time at UST, Jamie greatly benefited from the support of QCredit Corp. The scholarship she received from QCredit Corp. eased the financial burden on her parents, allowing her to continue her studies without the constant worry of affordability. She expressed profound gratitude to QCredit for this opportunity, stating, “QCredit lessened the financial burden that my tuition fees caused my parents, especially during the pandemic. It is no joke to study at this prestigious university, and QCredit is one of the reasons I got to stay and pursue my dreams.”
Jamie’s academic journey at UST was marked by numerous achievements. She was a consistent Dean’s Lister from her first year to her fourth year and an active member of the Makatha Circle, the official student organization for her program in Creative Writing. She also volunteered with the UST Red Cross Youth Council. Jamie also won several awards, including second place in a UST-wide poetry competition and third place in a short story competition in Filipino, which she considers defining moments in her academic career.
Jamie expressed her gratitude to her parents, professors, thesis advisors, friends, and QCredit Corp., who supported her throughout her journey. Reflecting on her experiences, she feels proud of her achievements and is committed to making a difference in the world through her pursuit of law.
Her research thesis, “Social Realism,” written in Tagalog to engage her readers deeply, focuses on the dynamics of middle-class families in the Philippines. Jamie hopes to give back to the community by writing stories that raise awareness and by representing the oppressed in legal matters. She wanted to share a clear message with her fellow students, one that her father always tells her “Students be determined, know where your heart has passion for, because by the end of the day, it is you who will always go through this challenges and struggles, so it is better that you are happy and enjoying what you’re doing and struggling rather than struggling and doing something that you are uncertain or dislike”.
Jamie’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the support of a community that believes in the potential of its youth. Her story continues to inspire those around her as she strives for excellence in everything she does.
Thank you, Jamie! Your QCredit family is proud of you!
