Nico San Pedro has found a source of energy within himself to succeed. A former draftsman in his home country of the Philippines, he enrolled in Niagara College’s Renewable Energies Technician program to further his education and gain an in-depth knowledge about energy transformation, conservation, and generation. San Pedro, who is set to graduate on June 17 as a Dean’s Award recipient, dedicates his success to his family who made his dream to study abroad possible.
We checked in with San Pedro to find out about his experience at NC, and what motivates him to succeed.
Nico San Pedro
Age: 25
Hometown: Norzagaray, Philippines (currently resides in Welland)
Program: Renewable Energies Technician
Academic achievement: Dean’s Award, School of Technology (95%)
How do you feel about receiving the Dean’s Award, achieving the highest GPA in your program? To what factors do you attribute your academic success? What inspires you to succeed?
I feel a sense of fulfilment that is beyond my expectations. The college’s learning-centric facilities, dedicated professors and supportive staff made my studies more focused and enjoyable. What inspires me to study well is the continuous support of my dear family, friends and peers who believed and trusted in my capabilities. I also would like to dedicate this award to my San Pedro family, especially to my uncle who made my dream to study abroad possible – this is our success.
What was your situation when you enrolled at NC?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in industrial technology with a major in electrical at Bulacan State University and I’m a former draftsman at Republic Cement and Building Materials Inc. in my home country.
What led you to study at NC and to your program specifically? Do you have a specific career goal in mind? Do you feel that completing your program will help you achieve that goal?
I wanted to get involved with the people who provide the world economy with various sustainable energy options and ways to utilize energy in a more efficient manner. The curriculum of the Renewable Energies Technician program at Niagara College is well-designed and suits my learning goals to gain in-depth knowledge about energy transformation, conservation, and generation. I’ve also learned various skills in researching, report writing, and project management, which are essential in my chosen career field.
Were you involved in any clubs/ teams or extracurricular activities during your time at NC?
I got involved with various co-curricular programs at the college – I was a peer mentor, peer tutor and I volunteered at various school events. These experiences enhanced my social skills and gave me a fresh perspective when I was overwhelmed with my lessons.
How did you find your program experience – any highlights, what stands out to you?
My program experience was excellent. My professors were focused on delivering the course material in the most effective way for me and they were so responsive when I inquired about courses outside of the class. My favourite part was when we visited a wind farm in the Niagara Region.
Did you face any challenges over the course of your study? How did you overcome those challenges?
The most challenging part of my two-year journey has been supporting myself financially while studying at the same time, where I study in the morning and work my part-time job at night. I’ve overcome this challenge by managing my time wisely, leaving time for photography to express my feelings, socialize with my family and friends to stay connected, and giving myself a lazy day whenever possible to allow my body and mind to rest.
What is it like to graduate at this time during the COVID-19 pandemic? What does graduating mean to you personally? Are you planning to attend your virtual convocation ceremony?
It is unfortunate to graduate without being able to personally thank and say goodbye to my classmates and professors, but graduation is graduation. It is a hard-earned privilege to celebrate the countless efforts, challenging struggles, and established friendships along the way in pursuing one’s lifelong dream. The college’s sincere and well-thought-out alternatives have made graduation for the class of 2020 more meaningful and an unforgettable experience through its virtual convocation ceremony. I will be watching the virtual convocation together with my family and friends to celebrate our success.
What have you been doing since completing your studies?
I’ve been keeping myself occupied by tailoring my profile for my future job hunt and attending various webinars for my professional development because learning does not simply stop after graduating.
Niagara College is celebrating its 5,000 spring graduates with its first-ever virtual convocation ceremonies from June 15-19. Visit the College’s Virtual Convocation site to view the schedule or to access the livestream ceremonies: niagaracollege.ca/virtualconvocation/.
