Manila Times
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Tuesday, May 05, 2026
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Bella Belen Celebrates Graduation Amidst Athletic Commitments
National University volleyball star graduates with a degree in Psychology while balancing her role as a student-athlete.
Bella Belen, a prominent player for the National University Lady Bulldogs, has successfully completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a culmination of her dedication to both her academics and athletics.
Belen graduated on May 16, reflecting her commitment to fulfilling her education despite the challenges faced by student-athletes.
Her achievement comes in the backdrop of a busy season, where she has been a key player in the ongoing UAAP volleyball tournament.
Following a recent match where the Lady Bulldogs triumphed over the De La Salle Lady Spikers with scores of 25-17, 25-21, 13-25, 25-17, Belen expressed her joy at earning her diploma.
"I'm very happy because, of course, the diploma is no joke for a student.
It's something we strive to achieve, and it's not easy," Belen stated, highlighting the significance of her educational attainment.
In her remarks, Belen addressed criticisms that suggest student-athletes may not be fully committed to their studies, affirming that many student-athletes, including herself, face rigorous academic and training schedules.
"Even though there are people who say that just because we are student-athletes, we only pass because of that, it’s not true.
We study hard, we sacrifice sleep, and I am very happy to have received my diploma from NU," she said.
Throughout her journey, Belen encountered various obstacles, balancing her responsibilities on the volleyball court with her academic pursuits.
As the first-ever Rookie-MVP in UAAP women’s volleyball, she emphasizes the importance of discipline for aspiring athletes.
"It's not impossible, even if you are a student-athlete, busy with training schedules while managing classes.
You really need to work hard and master time management and priorities," she advised.
Belen is on the brink of potentially winning her third MVP award this season.
With a crucial Game 2 against La Salle scheduled for May 14 at the Mall of Asia Arena, she may be participating in her final match as a Lady Bulldog, culminating a celebrated collegiate career.
Belen graduated on May 16, reflecting her commitment to fulfilling her education despite the challenges faced by student-athletes.
Her achievement comes in the backdrop of a busy season, where she has been a key player in the ongoing UAAP volleyball tournament.
Following a recent match where the Lady Bulldogs triumphed over the De La Salle Lady Spikers with scores of 25-17, 25-21, 13-25, 25-17, Belen expressed her joy at earning her diploma.
"I'm very happy because, of course, the diploma is no joke for a student.
It's something we strive to achieve, and it's not easy," Belen stated, highlighting the significance of her educational attainment.
In her remarks, Belen addressed criticisms that suggest student-athletes may not be fully committed to their studies, affirming that many student-athletes, including herself, face rigorous academic and training schedules.
"Even though there are people who say that just because we are student-athletes, we only pass because of that, it’s not true.
We study hard, we sacrifice sleep, and I am very happy to have received my diploma from NU," she said.
Throughout her journey, Belen encountered various obstacles, balancing her responsibilities on the volleyball court with her academic pursuits.
As the first-ever Rookie-MVP in UAAP women’s volleyball, she emphasizes the importance of discipline for aspiring athletes.
"It's not impossible, even if you are a student-athlete, busy with training schedules while managing classes.
You really need to work hard and master time management and priorities," she advised.
Belen is on the brink of potentially winning her third MVP award this season.
With a crucial Game 2 against La Salle scheduled for May 14 at the Mall of Asia Arena, she may be participating in her final match as a Lady Bulldog, culminating a celebrated collegiate career.
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