How I Got Into De La Salle University: A Journey Funded by Nails

 Getting into De La Salle University (DLSU) in Manila was not easy. The competition for admission into one of the top universities in the Philippines is intense, and every year thousands of students fight for limited spots. For me, the challenge was not only about proving my academic ability but also about finding a way to support myself financially. My story is one of persistence, creativity, and a lot of hard work with nail polish and brushes.

The Challenge of Admission

DLSU has a reputation for being selective. The entrance exams, the academic requirements, and the overall application process demand strong preparation. I knew that if I wanted to secure a place, I had to show dedication not only in academics but in every part of my life. At the same time, I was facing financial constraints. Tuition fees and daily expenses in Manila were no small matter, and I needed a way to contribute to my own education.

Turning to Nail Work

While many people might look for part-time jobs in retail or food service, I found my path in doing nails. It started small, just practicing designs on friends and family, but quickly became something more. I invested in basic tools, watched countless tutorials, and experimented with styles until I became skilled enough to charge for my work.

Doing nails gave me more than just income. It gave me control over my schedule, allowed me to set my own prices, and taught me valuable lessons about business and customer service. I built a small but loyal group of clients who trusted me to give them creative, quality nail art. Every peso I earned brought me closer to affording the costs of studying at DLSU.

Balancing Work and Preparation

The hardest part was balancing both. I would spend mornings and afternoons studying and preparing for the university’s entrance requirements, and evenings perfecting nail designs for clients. Sometimes I would be exhausted, but I reminded myself of the bigger picture. Every late night with a nail brush in hand was part of building the future I wanted.

What It Taught Me

Looking back, the struggle to get into DLSU was about more than academic achievement. It was about resilience and resourcefulness. Doing nails was not just a side hustle, it was the bridge that allowed me to cross into one of the most important chapters of my life.

The experience taught me that determination comes in many forms. Sometimes it is studying until your eyes hurt, and other times it is painting intricate patterns on nails until your hands are steady and precise. Both require focus and discipline, and both shaped who I am today.

Final Thoughts

Getting into De La Salle University was one of the proudest moments of my life, not only because of the prestige of the school but because I knew how much I had sacrificed to get there. Every acceptance letter tells a story, and mine happens to include bottles of nail polish, a steady hand, and a drive to succeed.