Beyond the knowledge that one is able to acquire over the course of a study,

there always exists a form of growth that occurs while the pages of the books are

turning derived not directly from the contents. It is not simply with increased knowledge

that students are changed but also in other aspects of their capacity. Of course, the

same is true for the study of the Life and Works of Rizal. The course has been

extremely beneficial in terms of allowing the students to become aware of how the

present day Philippines came to be and the struggles and triumphs that came along

with it and also in achieving the TIP Graduate Attributes.

Social and Ethical Responsibility. The Life and Works of Rizal is perhaps one

the courses which gives sufficient emphasis towards engraving this idea into the

students’ minds and hearts. It is through the continued highlight of Rizal’s advocacy for

patriotism and nationalism that students become influenced and aware of their

responsibilities to the country as its citizens. Not only that, it is further emphasized that

in the process of fulfilling our obligations, we should make it sure that we are doing it in

the ways that are in line with what is right, just, and moral.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills. In line with answering the call of

our social and ethical responsibility, the study of the Life and Works of Rizal has also

displayed how one’s intellect should be utilized in a manner of solving societal issues

that derives the most benefit. The course teaches that violence or brutality is not the

only solution to problems. It reminds the students to look at the big picture and analyze

the components carefully to come up with an answer that truly brings positive change.
 Communication Skills and Interpersonal Skills. Communication skills are not

simply portrayed through public speaking. As there are different forms of

communication, one of the unique lessons from the Life and Works of Rizal is the

improvement of written communication skills. Rizal was able to touch the hearts of the

public and make change through his writing. By reading and analyzing his outputs,

students are able to grasps effective means of communication through writing. In terms

of verbal communication, the students are also influenced with Rizal’s charismatic

approach when dealing with other people, thus improving interpersonal skills.

Professional Competence. Through the study of the course and the acquisition

of the above-mentioned improvements, the students become equipped with

competencies that can be useful in the corporate world. The course also serves as an

inspiration to become successful through one’s perseverance and that it is possible to

rise above hardships if only one continues to work hard for that goal and that one finds it

in him to contribute back to the country through service.

Lifelong Learning. Another fascinating lesson from the course is Rizal’s multiple

talents and profession. No matter the situation, he always strived to educate himself and

learn new skills be it academic or practical. This is another significant idea that we have

learned from studying the Life and Works of Rizal. It is a reminder that as much as we

can, we should keep our minds open to new things that can help us grow and aid us in

making the best we can as we go through our day-to-day lives.

Productivity. Time had always been an important asset for Rizal. Not a second

was wasted throughout his lifetime as he was able to develop himself into someone that
is indeed respectable all the while helping various communities in making their daily

lives more comfortable and educating the young with whom he left the country’s future.

Through the study of the Life and Works of Rizal, students are urged and encouraged to

make the most out of every day by pouring oneself into activities that yield fruitful

results. Students are provided with an idea on how they can utilize their time and

abilities efficiently.

It is without doubt that the study of the Life and Works of Rizal is one which is

both an eye-opener and one that drives holistic development. By immersing oneself in

seeking knowledge and inspiration in Rizal’s writings and activities, not only is our

sense of patriotism and nationalism awakened but it also provides a path for personal

growth allowing the acquisition of practical knowledge and skills.