Mr. Karl B. Padiera
He claimed the Top 20 spot in the Medical Technologist Licensure Examination in 1988. When that could have been his gateway to a flourishing industry practice, he found his heart closely attached to the academe.
Mr. Karl B. Padiera, an instructor at the Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, has been teaching for 25 years now. He attributes his fascination with the blackboard and the chalk to his parents who were both elementary school teachers.
For Karl, everyday in the classroom should be an opportunity to bring out the best in students. He admires students who have the courage to ask questions and eliminate their doubts on sensitive topics, from pure theories to issues of ethics.
How he generously shares what he has, Karl traces back to the holistic training he received from Silliman and the care that he received from individuals that he came across with. He considers it a blessing that he obtained both High School diploma and degree in Medical Technology from the University. His experience with colleagues and superiors, and how they encouraged him to pursue graduate studies (obtaining a master's in medical technology from the University of Santo Tomas in 2006) and take on responsibilities in the department, developed within him a confidence and strong sense of others. It may not come as a shock why among his ultimate goals in life is to give back to Silliman by helping it achieve higher recognition as the Philippines' best.
Back in college, Karl admits to being a serious student. He was focused on his studies and knew well his priorities. But contrary to the misconception of a hardworking student, Karl found an avenue to share his talent in plays, variety shows and singing competitions. And until today, he has remained humble yet generous with his powerful voice, for which he credits his father who was music teacher in Tayasan. When an opportunity pops up, he indulges his colleagues and students.
A committed faculty, Karl pegs his most memorable experience on his joining a faculty strike in 1996. He does not consider himself an activist, but through his participation in the strike, he observed the dynamism of the University and how everyone worked together towards arriving at a resolution.
Single at 47, Karl devotes his time to his mother who is a widow and derives happiness in traveling. He looks forward to one day venturing into a small part-time business.
Let us get to know Karl more:
Describe yourself in three words.
Optimistic. Risk-taker. Dreamer.
What is your mantra in life?
Everything that happens has a reason.
What makes you laugh/cry?
I laugh at good jokes. I cry when I see helpless people.
What’s your favorite time/day of the week and why?
Friday, because it’s almost weekend. I am a morning person — I most positive at 9 in the morning.
What do you love doing when not working?
Watching TV documentaries, sports and movies. I also enjoy traveling.
What is your favorite hangout place in the University?
ICLS office in the Angelo King building.
What makes you blush?
I don’t blush.
If you were an actor/actress, who would you be?
Harrison Ford or Roger Moore.
Tell us a fact about yourself?
I can sing and dance.
What’s your favorite game growing up?
Marbles.
What is your idea of a relaxing day?
At peace with nature, when I’m on a mountain or on a hill overlooking the ocean, and it’s windy.
What one thing would people be interested to know about you?
None. Everyone knows who I am.
What song best describes the YOU and the life you have now?
“I Believe I can Fly”
What is the first thing you do right after waking up in the morning?
Wash my face and go to the bathroom.
What’s your idea of a family?
The family is the most important factor for you to become successful.
