MANILA, Philippines—Monica Fernan Villarica is just a few days shy of her 18th birthday. She hits the magic number on September 22 but already, she feels the changes that come with becoming an adult.

"I’m starting to sense a different maturity in my head,” she confides. “Older? Yes, but in a good way.”

Monica, who comes from the sprawling Fernan clan, grew up in a huge family—her mom is one of nine siblings—which gives her scores of cousins and an assortment of aunts and uncles. Born and raised in Cebu, she spent summers in Manila, attending ballet workshops and eventually enrolling for a college course in International Studies at De La Salle University.

Although currently on term break, this college sophomore isn’t just vegetating around. When she’s not practicing with the Animo cheerleading squad of DLSU, she hangs around with friends or, if there’s enough time, goes home to Cebu to be with her family.

“Since I’m the youngest, I’ve always looked up to my family. I’m proud of the things they’ve taught me about life.”

For Monica, turning 18 marks a time “when life gets more exciting than it already is.”

The excitement doesn’t include a big party though. “I don’t think I’d be able to enjoy it as much because the preparations would be such a hassle for me,” she explains.

Indeed, this young girl is all about savoring the simple pleasures in life. “Happiness to me is when I enjoy what I’m doing and the company of people I’m with,” she says. “I was probably happiest when I first saw my niece Leah. I’d always longed for a younger sister or brother since grade school—and my wish has now been granted, but in a different way.”

Like most girls her age, she enjoys watching TV, especially her favorite comedy series, “Friends.” Monica also enjoys listening to singers Katy Perry, Colbie Caillat, and Carlo Villarica, and considers “Across the Universe” her favorite movie of the moment. A typical breakfast, she reveals, is oatmeal and Milo. “The best!” she adds.

But no, she has no treasured possession, she confesses. “I don’t want to get attached to material things,” she shrugs. Someday however, Monica hopes to see the world and “experience other cultures.”

The dream would have to wait. Because for now, Monica is content with her world and how it has allowed her to surpass her own expectations of her capabilities. At 18, she’s ready for even bigger things.