For these stars, college degree ‘life ammo,’ not just safety net

As cliché as it may sound, a career in show biz, a lot of celebrities say, is as fleeting as it’s lucrative. So, it’s crucial for them to have something to fall back on, once the offers start drying up, once their stars don’t shine as intensely anymore. That’s why many actors or performers still opt to finish their studies before they enter—or while they’re already in—show biz. For them, a college diploma, more than a safety net, is life ammunition that gives them that extra bit of confidence.
Rocco Nacino

Nursing, Mapúa University-Makati

I grew up in a family of doctors. And I have always wanted to be a pediatrician since I was young. But growing up, my mother used to make me perform for my grandmother, and that side of me eventually came out when I was in college.

I ventured into commercial modeling while I was studying. It was then when I began to weigh my options and think about what I want to do in life, what career path I should take. I still considered going to medical school after taking my board exams, but I also gave myself about half a year to try show biz.

If nothing came of it, I would have gone to medical school. However, projects came one after another. I’m very happy with what I do, but I do miss the medical field from time to time. When we have tapings and there are hospital scenes, I tell the crew that this procedure should be done like this or that. So, in that small way, I still get to touch on my other passion.

Now, I’m taking up my master’s in nursing. Having a degree is a good foundation, and you see the benefits in the long run. I believe it helped me in the way I talk to people, how I make my decisions. I’m happy and grateful that I listened to my parents about finishing my studies.

Nikki Gil

English Literature, Ateneo de Manila University

Interior Design, Philippine School of Interior Design (current)

I know that a show biz career doesn’t last forever, and as such, it’s always the wiser choice to invest in one’s education, not as a matter of obligation, but more for the purpose of self-fulfillment and personal growth.

I’m taking my second course now, interior design; it’s one of my longtime dreams. My mother also serves as an inspiration, since she took the same course and graduated two years ago. If I weren’t a celebrity, based on my current course, I would love to be an interior designer!

Dingdong Dantes

Techno Management, West Negros University

Prior: Interdisciplinary Studies, Ateneo de Manila University (five years);

Human Resource Development Management, San Beda College (two years)

Dingdong Dantes

When I entered show biz in 1998, I made a deal with my parents—that I would make my studies my priority. At first, it was easy juggling my career and studies. But as more opportunities poured in, my grades ended up getting affected.

I was a working student throughout college—five years in Ateneo, two years in San Beda. However, it came to a point where I had to stop, so I could focus more on honing my craft.

In 2012, I decided to finish college, because I wanted to take further studies on developing the nongovernmental organization I run—the YesPinoy Foundation. I searched for a program that would credit the units I earned in my seven years in college, then merged them into those of my new course. I took up techno management, because I felt that it best represented my interest. It was done online for two years (with once a month face-to-face sessions with professors), which suits working students like me.

Finally, in 2014, after nine years of college in a span of 16 years—I finally got my diploma. This year, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in public administration.

Even though it was difficult, I was lucky enough to have the value for education instilled in me. It was tempting to let go of it, because I was already earning. But the thirst for learning superseded that.

Markki Stroem

Hotel and Restaurant Marketing Management, Glion Institute of Higher Education (Switzerland)

As a linguist, it was only natural that I considered studying abroad to broaden my European language skills (Spanish, German, Norwegian, a bit of French). I see myself opening a restaurant … [or] running a hotel someday … [and] possibly involved in something related to music. Those are my two passions.

Iya Villania

AB Psychology, De La Salle University

When I was younger, I wanted to take up either law or medicine, so I took up AB Psychology. We all know that there’s no “forever” in show biz, and it’s always a good idea to improve one’s credentials with a college degree. But right now, with my new role as a full-time, hands-on mother to Primo, I can’t think of a better job in the world.

Carla Abellana

AB Psychology, De La Salle University

Carla Abellana

I finished my studies before entering show biz. For me, having an education is like having ammunition in life or a security blanket. You go out in the world feeling that you will be fine wherever life takes you. It’s something that’ll be with you forever.

I was determined to finish my studies, for myself and my parents. I didn’t go out much when I was a student. I went straight home and then studied some more.

I chose psychology, because I found it exciting. There’s so much to learn about human behavior. I taught in preschool for a year, and spent another year in the corporate world. If I weren’t an actress, I’d probably be in human resources or education.

Benjamin Alves

English Literature, University of Guam

I have always wanted to get a degree. It gives you that boost of confidence that I find important. I felt that there’s something missing in me before finishing my studies. It was a challenge—you spend years studying and working hard. So when you finally pull through, it feels like a big deal.

I considered marketing or psychology. But I figured out that if I were to study, it has to be something I’m passionate about, such as English literature. I have always enjoyed reading; I don’t get tired of it. I’m always writing. Hopefully, I get to work as a teacher someday. I see myself in a university setting.

Robi Domingo

Health Sciences, Ateneo de Manila University

Robi Domingo

Before entering the “Pinoy Big Brother” house, I had already set goals for myself—one of which was getting a college diploma. It was my priority, even if it meant juggling my studies and work. With today’s onslaught of shows and social media, new celebrities are always being discovered. But I told myself that, even if I lose my spot in show biz, I’d still win in life because of my education.

I chose my course back when I was in grade school. My parents, who are both doctors, are my inspiration. I hear a lot of medical jargon every day at home, and that motivated me to learn more. Apart from that, what triggered me was my desire to help ailing people.

If I weren’t a celebrity, I would have pursued my studies in the medical field. What I was planning to specialize in was ophthalmology, because I got fond of the practice by watching my lolos in Bacolod. I could have been the best (-looking) one (laughs)!
Mikael Daez

Business Management, Ateneo de Manila University

I didn’t think of entering show biz until after I graduated. I chose business management, because I thought it could be a good fit for me. I didn’t know what I wanted to do before going to college. But there’s a lot of business-oriented people in my family, and I have an inclination for numbers.

If I weren’t in show biz, I would probably be working in the banking industry.