Juggling academics, leadership, and passion projects is no easy feat—especially in a highly competitive and fast-paced world. But for 18-year-old Jan Althea Ellao, it’s a rhythm she has learned to dance to with grace, discipline, and purpose.
Currently a junior student at Gulf Medical University in Ajman, Althea is pursuing a degree in Biomedical Science—an ambitious path that reflects her deep curiosity for research and her long-term dream of becoming a doctor. “During my senior high school days, I was exposed to scientific research,” she shared with TGFM. “As I continued to explore every intricate element that builds it up, I became very fond of research and science intertwined. However, the field of research was not the sole expertise I longed for—it was also Medicine.”
This blend of interests eventually led her to a course that she now describes as the “perfect symphony” of her passions. “Biomedical Science continuously crafts knowledge through experience. And so far, it has been the perfect symphony of my passions—where science meets purpose, and where every experience brings me one step closer to a future of excellence and innovation.”
Born in San Fernando, Pampanga, and raised in the UAE, Althea is the eldest daughter of Anthony and Karen Erika Ellao. She proudly carries the values instilled in her during her formative years at The Philippine School (TPS) in Dubai, where she graduated as the Senior High School Valedictorian. “Every day, every moment, every event was a challenge—but it was a challenge I was eager to take,” she said. “Whether it was the new environment, new teaching methods, or even the weight of greater expectations, I carried with me the same resilience and perseverance. The challenges did not lessen—they evolved—but so did my dreams, capabilities, and commitment.”
Her leadership extended beyond the classroom. Althea actively participated in debate and public speaking competitions, finding joy in voicing out meaningful messages. “The thing I love most is how every time I set foot on stage, it is not fear that takes over but my passion for delivering messages that matter,” she explained. “In every stage I took, I was not merely speaking—I was connecting, leading, and creating an influence that resonates far beyond the final word.”
Most recently, Althea proved her excellence yet again after being named one of the five finalists in a Debate and Public Speaking tournament, representing Gulf Medical University. Competing against students from top universities such as American University Bahrain, American University of Sharjah, and American University of the Middle East, she emerged as the winner—solidifying her place as a standout scholar and communicator in the region.
But one of the most unforgettable chapters in her high school journey was her involvement in the TPS Drum and Lyre Corps. The group, recognized by the Dubai Police, gave her the opportunity to perform internationally—including at the prestigious Windsor Horse Show in London. “It was an experience worth all the effort,” Althea recalled. “The opportunity to fly overseas and share my talent along with the band was surely an invaluable moment in my life. What marked that momentous event was how years of training turned into a revered moment of recognition.”
Althea’s story, however, is not just about the accolades. It’s about how she handles the pressure that comes with them. Balancing her rigorous Biomedical Science course with extracurriculars has taught her that motivation alone isn’t enough. “I often hear people say that balancing studies with extracurriculars requires motivation and productivity, but in my case, I believe it’s self-discipline,” she explained. “Motivation is not an infinite well—it runs dry in the face of challenges. But I learned that the ultimate weapon you can harness to overcome is nothing but self-discipline.”
And while she continues to strive for academic and personal excellence, Althea has a message for her fellow Filipino students in the UAE: don’t forget to live. “All those moments dedicated to studies, extracurriculars, and achieving excellence have left me with one opportunity I wished I had taken more often—the opportunity to live life,” she said. “Paint your life with memories of friends and family, as these are the moments that cannot be marked with medals or trophies but only love. Success is meaningful, but so is your journey—so take a breath, embrace every moment, and realize that growth isn’t just measured by achievements but by the memories and experiences that shape you along the way.”
