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AT FIRST glance, one may not notice the difference between the two. Similar looks, gestures, and hobbies characterize their every move, making it impossible for a passerby to distinguish one from the other. With almost everything between them common and the same, the concept of being identical twins has transcended the typical presumptions most people have about them.

Dubbed as the Faculty of Arts and Letters’ (Artlets) “Twin Achiever”, Economics juniors Mary Ann “Maan” and Mary Del “Madel” Jasa have both strayed away from the stereotypical depiction of twins, taking almost the same steps in both their academic and personal lives.

Best of both worlds

Being consistent Dean’s Listers, Santo Tomas scholars, and former Valedictorian and Salutatorian graduates of St. Mary’s College in Bulacan, Madel and Maan never felt that they were sacrificing their childhood joys for the sake of improving their studies, unlike what most people think.

“When we were still kids, others perceived us as geeks who did nothing else but study,” Madel said.

On the contrary, their parents encouraged them to have fun and play games when they were younger. They added that studying is something they really enjoy doing.

Despite the negative perception thought of them, the twins noted that they were never suppressed by their parents from having fun and that they had a typical childhood just like everyone else. Some of their childhood memories include “showering in the rain, playing pogs and tagu-taguan.” Nevertheless, they did not disregard their studies. They were raised with the mindset that “success in life cannot be attained through books alone.”

“Throughout our journey, we have learned that life is not all about studies alone,” Madel said. “People often say that if a person is truly intelligent, then he or she must not only excel academically, but socially as well.”

Maan shared that they were blessed for having sets of true friends.

The twins were former editor-in-chief and associate editor in their high school publication. According to them, they never escaped the constant comparison made by people, even just as jokes, since one secures the first place, and the other, the second.

“Sometimes, we hear comments like we do not really compete when we are up against each other. Others say that we just divide and share whatever is at stake, setting aside rivalry,” she said.

The twins, who are admittedly glued to the hip, shared that they rarely spend times apart. Maan said that the only time they could not be seen together is during unfortunate circumstances like if one of them is sick.

Life in the academe

The twins, who were classmates ever since they set foot in an educational institution, shared that they decided to take AB Economics not only to pursue future law careers, but as well as to prepare themselves in managing their family business. Their parents are involved in the microfinance industry.

They chose to study in UST because of the good environment it has characterized by the huge campus grounds and friendly security guards who welcomed them when they took their entrance exams.

Because of this, the faculty served as a constant reminder for them that life is far more than just books and cleverness.

“Here in Artlets, one can see the strong bond formed among the students. This Faculty teaches how to establish strong relationships and how to interact well with others,” Madel said.

They also see the Faculty as a good training ground for future professionals like them. Armed with good experiences in their journey, the twins said that they are encouraged to do their best in all of their works.

“This Faculty has helped me grow holistically. It will push you to excel not just academically, but socially as well,” Maan said.

Certain differences

Although as seemingly alike as two peas in a pod, Madel and Maan revealed to the Flame the few differences they have despite being identical twins.

Madel, who is two-minutes older than her twin, is right-handed and actually enjoys big company and parties. Maan, who is a couple of inches taller, is left-handed and is a sporty person.

When asked if they prefer to be distinguished from their twin, Madel said that they still enjoy the perks of being misidentified when shopping in malls and donning the same colored outfit whenever they go out.

“We are happy to be identified this way because nowadays, it is rare for twins to maintain their identical behavior as they grow up,” Madel said.

The twins shared that setting time for everything—family, studies, and God—is what helped them surpass the challenges that confronted their way. They said that the sense of balance and constant prayer are the secrets to their success.

Maan said that students like them should “hold on to their dreams and not waste every opportunity that comes their way.”

“Those who try to hurt you, bring you down, and do not believe in your capabilities must not be perceived as enemies. Rather, you must see them as an inspiration who would help you do better,” Madel said.

Although they see themselves changed and different over the years, seeing them achieve their youthful dreams is tantamount to looking at both sides of a mirror— a mirror that reflects two of Artlets’ pride.