Jodi Sta. Maria announces acting hiatus, to pursue master’s degree in clinical psychology

Actress Jodi Sta. Maria announced Monday her plan to take a break from acting to pursue higher education.

The actress revealed that she is enrolling in a master’s program in clinical psychology in 2025.

“This year, I’m taking up my master’s degree in clinical psychology,” Jodi shared during a recent interview. When asked why she chose this path, she said, “Kasi naiisip ko, as a human being, parang I can do so much more. Na parang mayroon pang life outside of showbizness. Naisip ko na, oo, I’m an actor, but I can put on another hat.”

Jodi also expressed her long-term dream of making mental health services accessible to everyone.

“It’s my dream to put up a small center to make mental health accessible to all—hindi lang for people na kaya magbayad, but para sa lahat. ‘Yung heart ko, from the time I started studying psychology, when I did acupuncture detox and got my certification there, ‘yun talaga nasa heart ko. And God willing, ‘yung dream na ‘yun will turn into reality,” she added.

The actress opened up about her love for being a student, saying she enjoys learning.

“Nag-eenjoy kasi ako. For some weird reason, I enjoy the feeling of being in a class. Gusto ko ‘yung student ako—nakaupo, nakaka-learn ako ng mga bagong things. Parang that sparks joy in my heart. It fascinates me,” she said.

Despite her upcoming break, Jodi remains busy finishing her commitments as she is currently wrapping up a film project set to conclude this month and is eagerly awaiting the finale of Lavender Fields, which will air its last episode on January 24.