Human Resource Management graduate Rachel Mae Ricardo (Batch 2014) is proof that the lessons learned at Southville International School and Colleges extend far beyond graduation. Today, she applies the leadership, collaboration, and character she developed at Southville in her career as an HR, Admin, and Marketing professional while continuing to make a meaningful impact through community service.

A Southville Experience That Shaped Her

When asked what she enjoyed most about her time at Southville, Rachel did not hesitate.

“It wasn’t just about studying but it was about becoming,” she shared.

For Rachel, Southville was more than a place to earn a degree. It was where she gained confidence, built lasting friendships, and developed a genuine appreciation for teamwork. Those experiences continue to shape the way she approaches both her personal life and professional career.

Her decision to study at Southville was intentional. She was drawn to the school’s commitment to holistic growth and embraced opportunities that extended beyond academics. She believed that education should develop not only knowledge but also character, leadership, and purpose.

How a Human Resource Management Graduate Grew Beyond the Classroom

As a BSBA Human Resource Management student, Rachel immersed herself in campus life. She joined the Southville International Junior Marketing Association (SIJMA) and the Asian Association of School HRMD Practitioners, Inc., where she served as a fourth-year representative.

Looking back, Rachel says these experiences challenged her to step outside her comfort zone. They strengthened her leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. They also taught her how to work effectively with people from different backgrounds. Those lessons continue to guide her today.

Among Southville’s core 5Cs, Character and Collaboration had the greatest influence on her journey.

Character, she explained, keeps her grounded in her values and reminds her to stay true to herself. Collaboration enables her to build strong relationships, appreciate different perspectives, and contribute effectively to every team she joins.

Rachel believes these qualities gave her a strong foundation as a Human Resource Management graduate and prepared her for the demands of today’s workplace.

Building a Meaningful Career

Today, Rachel works as an HR, Admin, and Marketing professional at Wazile Technology Solutions Inc. She enjoys a hybrid work setup that allows her to work from home, cafés, or co-working spaces.

She thrives in an environment where innovation and continuous learning are encouraged. Working alongside talented colleagues motivates her to keep improving and adapt to the changing demands of the industry.

As a Human Resource Management graduate, Rachel appreciates the importance of communication, teamwork, and lifelong learning. These qualities continue to help her succeed in every role she takes on.

Beyond her professional career, Rachel also volunteers as a youth worker at Ang Tahanan ng Panginoon. It is a responsibility she values deeply.

“These youths remind me that life is about purpose,” she shared.

Her volunteer work reminds her that fulfillment is not measured by job titles alone. Instead, she believes true success comes from making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Advice from a Human Resource Management Graduate

Rachel encourages current students not to worry about having everything figured out.

Instead, she advises them to focus on building strong character, learning how to work well with others, and pursuing opportunities that genuinely bring them joy. Those qualities, she believes, will open doors and help them stand out wherever life takes them.

Rachel’s journey shows that becoming a Human Resource Management graduate is about more than earning a diploma. It is about developing the knowledge, values, leadership, and resilience needed to build a meaningful career while making a lasting impact on others.