Being passionate and determined to pursue your dreams, no matter the circumstances, becomes a powerful source of motivation. It pushes you to keep moving forward, overcome challenges, and continually strive to become the best version of yourself.
This commitment to academic excellence is reflected in the accomplishments of the proud Centro Scholar University (CEU) School of Law and Jurisprudence alumni who pursued and completed the Juris Doctor degree. Notable among these graduates are Atty. Rodalyn Domingo-Castillo (Class of 2015) and Atty. John Kelly Balbin Cainday (Class of 2019), whose dedication, perseverance, and success stand as a testament to the quality of legal education offered by the University.
Here is why their success stories could be the motivation you need to inspire your Legal journey.
What is a Juris Doctor and understanding its significance
The Juris Doctor (JD) program is a professional law degree designed to equip students with the knowledge, analytical skills, and ethical grounding necessary for the practice of law. In the Philippines, the JD is considered a professional graduate degree equivalent to a master’s degree for employment, ranking, and compensation purposes. It is also recognized as the equivalent of the older Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree.
The CEU School of Law and Jurisprudence aims to develop competent, ethical, and socially responsible lawyers who excel across various legal fields. It fosters a commitment to justice, continuous learning, and meaningful legal research, while preparing students for advanced studies and practice in both local and international contexts. Ultimately, the school envisions its alumni as respected leaders in the judiciary, legislature, and executive branches of government.
Changemakers who shaped dreams into success
Despite different backgrounds, Atty. John-Kelly and Atty. Rodalyn both shared a single, unwavering goal to complete what they had started and pursue their dreams despite the challenges and circumstances they faced. Balancing the demands of work, personal responsibilities, and the rigorous curriculum of the CEU Juris Doctor Program, they remained steadfast in their commitment to succeed.
One pursued the degree because she felt it was God’s intervention—the night classes in the CEU Juris Doctor Program were a perfect fit for her life as a young professional. The other, already a physician, sought to expand his expertise by specializing in Legal Medicine.
Atty. Rodalyn graduated as the batch’s Cum Laude and First Honorable Mention. As a full-time working student, she demonstrated remarkable perseverance, skillfully managing her mornings at work and her evenings in class. One of the things that kept her going was her dream of one day having the title “Atty.” before her name, which fueled her determination to keep striving every day. Though the journey was exhausting and challenging at times, giving up was never an option.
Meanwhile, Atty. John Kelly wanted to pursue a different field of practice, he aimed to specialize in Legal Medicine. Like Atty. Rodalyn, he was also a working student, and balancing his schedule was one of the biggest challenges he faced, as he was both a full-time employee and a full-time student. He overcame these difficulties with the mindset: “I wanted this. I started this. I will finish this in time.” Through perseverance and dedication, he successfully graduated as the batch’s Salutatorian.
Mentors who empower and inspire
Aside from maintaining a healthy mindset and a strong passion, another essential factor in achieving your dreams is connecting with professionals and mentors who can empower and inspire you throughout your journey.
For Atty. Rodalyn, meeting the CEU School of Law and Jurisprudence dean, associate dean and its powerhouse faculty became a blessing in her life. Dean Senior Justice Josue N. Bellosillo, Associate Dean Atty. Rita Linda V. Jimeno, and the Juris Doctor faculty and staff ensure that every student is fully prepared—not only with the knowledge to pass the bar but also with the character and mindset to thrive as a professional lawyer.
“They would give us pieces of advice on how we can pass our subjects and ultimately, the Bar Examinations. A session at the dean’s office was always inspiring and enlightening, never dreadful,” she shared, explaining how the dean consistently checked in on students like her on how they were handling their subjects, how well they were keeping up with the lessons, and whether their professors’ methods of instruction were effective.
For Atty. John Kelly, studying under dean Bellosillo—a pro-learner leader—was part of an environment where students were encouraged to focus on learning rather than being punished. He learned not to become complacent, even with the administration’s constant support, and came to appreciate the genuine guidance CEU provided deeply. Today, he carries that same philosophy forward in his own practice—listening, teaching, and guiding others without resorting to reprimands or scolding.
“Things are learned easier and better when taught rather than left for a learner to discover,” he said.
Tools for success
CEU aims to prepare graduates for advanced learning both locally and abroad, equipping them to practice in various jurisdictions. Ultimately, CEU envisions its alumni to become respected and highly capable members of the judiciary, legislature, or executive branches of government.
To support this commitment, the school ensures that both its curriculum and facilities serve as strong tools for student success. Atty. Rodalyn highlighted that the well-stocked library and free wireless connectivity were among the facilities that made learning more accessible and efficient, providing a comfortable environment during recitations and study sessions. Meanwhile, Atty. John Kelly relied heavily on the law library for printed cases and materials, as well as books and jurisprudence recommended by his professors.
Additionally, CEU provided students with free online subscriptions to legal databases and other essential resources, further enhancing their ability to research, study, and stay updated with current legal developments. These facilities, combined with the school’s supportive learning environment, helped both Atty. Rodalyn and Atty. John Kelly to excel in their studies and prepare them for professional success.
Building a thriving career beyond CEU
Through excellent mentorship, appropriate curriculum, and complete resources, Atty. Rodalyn and Atty. John Kelly successfully transitioned into professional life. Atty. Rodalyn is now a resident public attorney at the 8th Municipal Circuit Trial Court of Aparri-Calayan, while Atty. John Kelly serves as a rural health physician, epidemiology officer, and medical director in the Local Government Unit of Borongan City.
Carrying the lessons of their CEU journey, they continue to thrive and inspire future law students. Their stories show that being a working student is not a hindrance for success especially when guided by the right institution, mentors, and passion. Like Atty. Rodalyn and Atty. John Kelly, aspiring lawyers can experience their own “I did it” moments.
Start your journey and fuel your passion. Learn more about the CEU School of Law and Jurisprudence by visiting its website.
