MCS Grade School Alumna, Danica Mae Godornes, Becomes UP Law’s First Magna Cum Laude in over a Decade

Written by Brent Mitchel R. Calado
Layout by Christine Raine V. Dela Cruz
Posted on July 29, 2021 | 11:50 AM

It was announced last July 24, 2021, that Danica Mae Godornes, a full-time working student at the University of the Philippines College of Law and MCS Grade School Alumna of Batch 2007, will be graduating as both the university’s batch valedictorian and Magna Cum Laude. She is acknowledged as only the 7th Magna Cum Laude of UP Law since 1962, and also the first since Dionne Sanchez in 2007. By way of an interview, Godornes shared a summary of her journey to success.

Before attending law school, Godornes was an undergraduate student of the program BS BAA (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accountancy). She indicated that she enjoyed taking those [Law] subjects more than her accounting majors. After taking the board exam, she was not “particularly interested” in her career options thus, she decided to take the University of the Philippines LAE (Law Aptitude Examination). Fortunately, she passed and entered law school.

Upon knowing her accomplishment, Godornes was nothing but surprised since she “did not expect it at all.” Though she is overwhelmed, she expressed her gratitude towards those who celebrated with her.

Furthermore, Godornes specified that prayer and her support system of friends, family, and loved ones helped her get through law school and achieve an impressive feat. “Whenever I get discouraged and wanted to quit UP Law, they would help me remember why I pursued it in the first place,” she said. In addition, her training in the BAA Program greatly influenced her study habits, which helped her keep up with the demands of work and school.

During her years as a Malatean, some of Godornes’ former teachers - our very own Mrs. Lacson and Mrs. Caguingin acknowledged her intelligence, humble and supportive nature. “Danica is very smart, sweet, and super bait na student ko,” Mrs. Lacson stated. (Danica is very smart, sweet, and a very good student of mine.) “Danica is diligent. She is willing to help her classmates. She respects her teachers so much!” Mrs. Caguingin added.

Godornes’ former Malatean teachers also showed admiration towards her distinction. “I am very happy about her achievement. As her former teacher, I am proud because of all the teachings and values that we [MCS] have instilled in her,” Mrs. Caguingin stated. “I am so proud of her. Tatak Malatean talaga,” Mrs. Lacson added. (I am so proud of her. Truly a Tatak Malatean.) Mrs. Malou Delos Santos, who also had the opportunity to teach Godornes in Grade School, said, “Proud [ako] na [naging] Malatean siya.” (I am proud that she became a Malatean.)

To all Malateans who aim to pursue law in the future, Godornes’ advice is: “Try to develop study habits that are aligned with your learning style as early as now. There is no shortcut. We have to work hard, and that’s the reality of life. Always focus on your goals so that when you’re on the verge of quitting, you have something to go back to. But also remember not to stress yourselves out, especially with things you cannot control. It’s unnecessary and not productive. Lastly, don’t forget to pray. Things may become too hectic, but it’s calming to have those five minutes to yourself to reflect and be thankful for all the blessings we have.”