TECH MILESTONES: A PERSONAL REFLECTION ON MY DIGITAL JOURNEY

When I was in high school, specifically in grade 9, I discovered my skills in using technology for completing assignments. Before that, I was familiar only with social media platforms like Facebook, Messenger, and Instagram. However, during the pandemic, when modular classes started, I was introduced to new tools like Canva, Capcut and other useful tools. At the time, I didn’t even know such programs existed, but they soon became essential for creating outputs that required video editing or creative design.

Like many students during that time, I started from scratch. My initial works were far from perfect, and I accepted that because I was still learning. It was a challenging phase, and my first attempts at video editing or creative design were not polished, but I kept pushing forward. Over time, as I practiced more and more, I could see improvements in my work. By the time I moved up to senior high school, my skills had significantly improved. It was satisfying to look back at my early work and see how much I had grown.

Sharing these old clips, especially those I edited in the past, makes me feel quite shy. However, since I want to genuinely reflect on my skills and competencies as a tech-savvy individual, I feel that showing these videos will give a clearer picture of my growth. It's not just about sharing the content; it's about giving insight into how far I've come in terms of my abilities. By offering this reflection, I hope you can better understand not just my journey but also the transformation that has taken place over the years.

Looking back, it's evident that my editing skills have evolved significantly. When I compare my recent work to my earlier projects, the difference is striking. What once seemed like polished, decent work now feels "jejemon" or outdated, especially when viewed from the perspective of today's generation. Back then, I was proud of what I had created, but now I can see the humor in it. The older videos, while somewhat clumsy in execution, reflect my early struggles with editing tools. I didn't fully grasp how to use them, yet I still considered those videos to be a great achievement at the time.

What's funny now is how I find those early attempts amusing, even if they’re a bit rough around the edges. It’s like seeing my younger self learning to walk in the world of creative design. Despite the imperfections, those moments were crucial in building my current skill set. Over the years, I've come to realize how much I relied on templates as a guide, which played a big role in helping me improve. They were essential tools in my learning process, and with their help, I was able to refine my techniques, honing my craft into something far more sophisticated than it once was.

In sharing these videos, I'm not just offering a window into the past, I'm showing the progress that has shaped who I am today. Each clip, no matter how jejemon it may seem now, represents a step in my journey toward becoming more adept, creative, and confident in the digital world.

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My journey with technology, however, wasn’t limited to just editing or designing. In 2021, I experienced a significant challenge when my Facebook account was hacked. I had clicked on a post someone had tagged me in without understanding the consequences, which led to my account being compromised. That experience was traumatizing and left me shaken, but it also made me more aware of the importance of cybersecurity. From that point on, I have been much more cautious with what I click on and how I navigate the digital world.

That incident made me realize the broader aspects of being tech-savvy. It’s not just about creating content or using applications, it's also about understanding the risks and vulnerabilities in the digital space. Cybersecurity became an area of focus for me, and I now take extra precautions to ensure that my digital footprint is protected. It was a tough lesson, but one that has made me more resilient and responsible in how I engage with technology.

Another key aspect of my journey has been problem-solving. There have been numerous instances where an application bugged out or stopped working properly. Each of those moments tested my problem-solving skills, and I always found it satisfying to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Technology can be unpredictable, and the ability to calmly work through problems has become one of my strengths. Every time I solve an issue, whether it’s a software glitch or a technical obstacle, I feel a sense of accomplishment.

Why am I sharing this experience? Because, like Riley from Inside Out, I also have core memories that have shaped who I am today. My journey with technology is one of those key experiences that has molded me into a tech-savvy individual. Each challenge and achievement along the way has helped build my confidence and competence. These memories are milestones that remind me of how far I’ve come and how much more I can still achieve.

Living in a digital era means constant change, and I’ve realized that being tech-savvy isn't just about mastering tools or knowing the latest gadgets. It’s about staying adaptable, always being willing to learn, and remaining curious. The tools and technologies we use will continue to evolve, but my mindset, focused on problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity, will keep me prepared for whatever comes next.

Furthermore, collaboration has played a significant role in my growth. Working with classmates on projects or seeking help from friends online has expanded my understanding of teamwork in the digital space. Technology is rarely used in isolation, and learning to collaborate effectively has helped me develop my communication and leadership skills. I’ve come to appreciate the power of shared knowledge and how digital tools can enhance teamwork.

As I reflect on my journey, I believe that my digital competencies go beyond just using software or creating content. I’ve learned how to balance creativity with critical thinking, adaptability with security awareness, and collaboration with independence. My experiences have empowered me to navigate the digital world confidently, knowing that technology, when used thoughtfully and responsibly, can be a powerful force for good.