Behind every success story is a foundation built on perseverance and determination. For Dr. Ian Sta. Maria, her journey to becoming a doctor was shaped in no small part by her years as a Kumon student. The lessons she learned through the program helped her excel academically and gave her the tools to overcome the challenges of medical school, pass the Physician Licensure Examinations, and thrive in her current role as a third-year Pediatric Resident.
A Foundation in Math—and Life
Dr. Sta. Maria’s Kumon journey began when her parents decided to enroll her in the Math Program to help her excel in school. Though Math was initially challenging for her, Kumon provided a structured yet motivating environment that allowed her to succeed. Starting at Level 2A (Addition and Subtraction), she recalls her excitement at solving the worksheets, which were manageable and gave her a sense of accomplishment.
However, the challenges mounted as she progressed to higher levels, such as Levels J and K (Equations and Functions). Balancing Kumon worksheets with schoolwork became difficult, but Dr. Sta. Maria persevered. She credits her ability to keep going to the sense of community she found at her Kumon Center and the support of her parents, especially her father. “There were moments when I wanted to quit,” she says, “but my parents reminded me of the goals I had set for myself. My dad, in particular, would wait patiently for hours while I finished my worksheets after school.”
Building Skills for Academic Excellence
Throughout her Kumon years, Dr. Sta. Maria developed critical skills that extended beyond the classroom. She cites time management and the ability to solve problems efficiently as academic strengths she honed through the program.
More importantly, Kumon instilled in her a sense of discipline and resilience. She recalls moments when she struggled to complete difficult worksheets but pushed through, knowing that hard work would eventually pay off. “Kumon showed me that if you persevere and never give up, you will reach your goals in life,” she shares.
These lessons became especially significant when she faced the rigorous demands of medical school. Just as she had to repeat worksheets in Kumon to master a concept, she learned to overcome setbacks in her medical education. “Whenever I failed exams in medical school, I didn’t dwell on it. Instead, I studied harder and eventually passed the next exams,” she says.
Lifelong Lessons in Perseverance and Teamwork
Beyond academic skills, Kumon taught Dr. Sta. Maria the value of teamwork and seeking help when needed. She fondly remembers her Kumon teachers, who were always ready to guide her through challenging topics. This openness to collaboration has stayed with her in her career as a doctor, where teamwork is essential.
“Kumon taught me that failure doesn’t mean it’s the end—it’s an opportunity to try again,” she reflects. “This mindset has been invaluable in my studies and career.”
Strengthening Family Bonds
Dr. Sta. Maria’s Kumon journey also brought her closer to her parents, especially her father. Her dad was a constant presence during her Kumon years, often waiting for her at the Center while she worked through her worksheets. Their shared commitment to her education fostered a deep bond that remains strong today.
“My parents were my biggest cheerleaders,” she says. “They always reminded me of my goals and encouraged me to keep going, even when things got tough.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Now a third-year Pediatric Resident, Dr. Sta. Maria is well on her way to achieving her dreams, which include starting her own family, building her career as a Pediatrician, and traveling the world. But she hasn’t forgotten the lessons of her Kumon days—and she hopes to inspire others to persevere through challenges.
Her message to Kumon students is simple but powerful: “Don’t give up. If there are setbacks, get back up and stand tall. Always believe in yourself, and with every goal you have, when you manifest and believe, you will eventually reach it.”
Dr. Sta. Maria’s story is a testament to the transformative power of Kumon. What started as a journey to improve her math skills became the foundation for a life of resilience, discipline, and success. Whether you’re a Kumon student tackling worksheets or a professional striving for your next big goal, her story reminds us of the value of hard work, perseverance, and the unwavering support of loved ones.
