Address of Thanks By Maxine Francesco Gwyneth C. Baculo, MD (Batch 2025 Valedictorian)

Maxine Francesco Gwyneth C. Baculo

Dec 2025 DOI 10.35460/2546-1621.2025-0255     Access   

Abstract

This valedictory address reflects on the formative role of service, sacrifice, and resilience in shaping the professional identity of the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Class of 2025. Drawing from personal and shared narratives, the speech emphasizes that the journey to becoming a physician is sustained less by innate brilliance than by grit, perseverance, and collective support. It honors families, mentors, patients, and often-unseen contributors whose labor and compassion made medical training possible. The address concludes by affirming humility, empathy, and people-centered service as enduring principles that should guide graduates as they enter the practice of medicine and begin building their professional legacy.

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