After eight years away from the life once imagined, EJ Osorio returned to the University of the Philippines and completed the second semester of academic year 2025–2026 with a 1.0000 General Weighted Average.
“This year, I finally had the courage to go back to UP,” EJ wrote in a personal account published by Iskolar ng Bayan.
EJ’s struggle began in 2017. During that period, EJ withdrew from the world and found it difficult to imagine a future. Recovery took time and required professional help. EJ described the process as a series of small decisions made repeatedly, especially during moments when the path forward remained uncertain.
After one year of consistent treatment, EJ shared that the condition had reached full remission. UP readmitted EJ as a non-major student in December 2025, opening the way for a return to the classroom during the following semester.
The grade record included in the post shows five academic subjects worth three units each. EJ received a grade of 1.00 in all five, resulting in a 1.0000 GWA across 15 units. A Physical Education subject, Bird Watching, appears separately with a grade of 1.50.
The achievement followed a semester of regular attendance and completed requirements. EJ said every class was attended and every deadline was met. The goal throughout the semester remained simple.
“I wasn’t chasing perfection. I was just trying to move forward.”
The final grade gave EJ’s return a remarkable result, but the account placed greater weight on the work that made returning possible. Treatment continued. Classes became part of daily life again. Years of uncertainty eventually led back to UP.
EJ’s journey offers hope to people whose education, careers or personal plans have been interrupted by mental-health struggles. Recovery can take years, and progress may begin with a decision that appears small at the time.
“We don’t need to be transported to another world to get a second chance. We can begin again in the life we’re already living.”
“You’re always free to begin again.”
