After years of studying, Arce was recognized by Gallaudet University, which is “an academic institution known for its prestige as an institution committed towards excellence in Deaf education”. She was also awarded a Graduate Research/Writing Award and George Veditz Deaf Studies Award.

“From the bottom of my heart, I want to educate and see Deaf students become Deaf advocate-leaders, researchers, academicians, linguists, and scholars who can make a difference in our home country,” she shared.

Moreover, she will return to the Philippines to set up a Filipino Sign Language (FSL)/English bilingual literacy program for Filipino Deaf youth and adults. Her aim is to teach them FSL and help them develop reading and writing skills using bilingual methods to prepare them for college or any job training program.

She also wants to raise awareness not only for the Deaf but also to the other special education community.

“Graduation is not the end. It’s only the beginning of another journey towards a higher level of learning. Don’t be afraid to dream, for it can be the first step to achieving our goals. Always remember that with patience and hard work, success will be within our reach,” she shared.

Arce graduated from Benilde with a degree in Applied Deaf Studies majoring in Multimedia Arts.

Photo from Deaf E-News