Czarina Runatay
Quick Facts
Age: 21
Pronouns: she/her
Major: Nursing, 2025
Notable: First-generation
Languages: Tagalog, Ilocano
Transfer Institution: Clover Park Technical College, Associate in Arts
“In a world where incivility can be pervasive, choosing civility is not only a personal choice but also a powerful act of leadership. ”
Service & Work:
Secretariat Committee, All Youth Organization, Far Eastern University, September 2020–June 2022
Executive Committee, Public Relations, YWCA, Far Eastern University, September 2020–June 2022
Executive Committee, Events Management, Far Eastern University, September 2020–June 2022
Awards & Honors:
Member, Alpha Sigma Nu Jesuit Honor Society
Member, Tau Sigma Honor Society
Alfie Scholars, Cohort 8, 2023–2025
President’s List, Clover Park Technical College, 2021–2022
Redhawk Transfer Grant
Achievement Scholarship
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship
Czarina’s Story
I am Czarina Kassandra Runatay, a torchbearer of resilience and determination forged through the fires of challenge. As someone who has navigated the uncharted waters of being a first-generation college student, my story is a testament to the indomitable spirit that comes from viewing challenges as steppingstones to success.
Born and raised in the picturesque landscapes of the Philippines, I embody the values and strength ingrained within my community. As I embarked on this educational journey, I found myself navigating the intricate tapestry of two worlds, kindling within me an innate curiosity for the myriad cultures that paint the global canvas.
In a small town where immediate access to care was a luxury, I experienced firsthand the repercussions of a healthcare system strained by inadequate resources. In a pivotal moment, I was ushered into an emergency room, gripped by debilitating pain. Yet, the harrowing hours that ensued—eight to be exact—before receiving medical attention, a consequence of a nursing shortage, left an indelible mark on my path.
It was this experience that catalyzed my unwavering determination to pursue nursing, a calling to remedy the systemic issues that had affected not only me but countless others. I aim to understand the realm of healthcare and its intricacies and uncover opportunities for transformation.
My yearning to make a difference and to contribute with cultural sensitivity led me to hone my focus. The values woven into the fabric of my family—hard work, compassion, and collective support—continue to be my guiding light. Rooted in this wisdom, I am inspired to pursue a career that would not only bridge the healthcare gap but also to embrace the diverse tapestry of humanity.
Amidst this journey, my heritage, the embodiment of memories, traditions, and a vibrant sense of belonging remain my anchor. My status only heightened my reverence for my roots. It is through this lens that I see the world—a lens that not only appreciates the beauty of diversity but also enables me to forge genuine connections that traverse geographical boundaries.
Goals:
My professional goal as a dedicated nursing student enthralled by the complexity of both the written word and the art of healing is to find a beautiful balance between developing nursing practice and embracing the principles of civility. My objectives are to promote excellence in nursing while establishing an environment of decency, compassion, and patient-centered care through empathic communication and enhancing my knowledge and abilities.
My motivation stems from a desire to improve patients' lives. To achieve this, I place great emphasis on education. My objective is to raise awareness of the value of monitoring and maintaining ideal blood pressure levels among patients through various venues, such as healthcare exhibitions, while also serving as an example of professionalism in the medical field. I want to encourage others to adopt the values of compassion, empathy, and respect in their interactions with patients and colleagues by sharing my knowledge and experiences.
On Civility:
Civility is the embodiment of respect, empathy, and kindness in our interactions with others. It is the recognition of everyone's inherent worth and dignity, regardless of their background, beliefs, or perspectives. Civility entails treating others with courtesy, listening attentively, and engaging in constructive dialogue even when faced with disagreements.
Civility matters because it lays the foundation for meaningful connections, understanding, and cooperation. It cultivates an atmosphere of mutual respect where individuals can express their thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment or hostility. Civility cultivates understanding, cooperation, and compassion, essential ingredients for building strong relationships and thriving communities.
In a world where incivility can be pervasive, choosing civility is not only a personal choice but also a powerful act of leadership. When we consciously embody civility in our own conduct, we become beacons of light, inspiring others to follow suit and creating a positive ripple effect in our communities and beyond. By setting an example of civility, we become catalysts for positive change, fostering environments where cooperation, collaboration, and understanding can truly thrive.
