Have you ever been turned down for a job, not due to a lack of skill, but solely because of your accent?
An accent refers to the unique way a person pronounces words, shaped by their native language, region, or cultural background. It encompasses differences in pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm compared to the standard or widely spoken dialect of a language. Accents vary greatly between regions and countries, reflecting a person’s linguistic heritage or the environment where they learned to speak.
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Take Roslyn Vea Domingo Damasco as an example. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of the Philippines Diliman in June 2019, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education, Major in Special Education, and Minor in Mathematics.
Despite her impressive academic achievements, many believed her credentials would make it easy for her to secure a job. However, the reality was quite the opposite. She faced multiple rejections, not because of her qualifications, but due to her accent. Coming from Ilagan City, Isabela, Damasco sought employment in Metro Manila, particularly in prestigious schools, but her regional accent became a barrier to acceptance.
“I was devastated because I studied for four years to improve my content and pedagogy, but I got rejected for my accent—something that is innate to me, something that I can’t just change,” Damasco said during an interview with PEP.
Photo courtesy: Facebook/Troy Alexander G Miano
Her message to those who share similar experiences is that even the most accomplished and successful individuals go through periods of depression, self-doubt, and setbacks in pursuing their dreams. However, she reminds them that God’s timing is always perfect. What is meant for you will eventually come to you, and no pandemic or failure can take it away. All you need is to place your trust in God.
