At Ateneo Municipal, Rizal was exposed to a more advanced system of education implemented by Jesuit priests, characterized by rigid discipline, religious instruction, and healthy competition among students . He thrived in this environment, receiving high honors and excelling in his class. In contrast, at the University of Santo Tomas, Rizal encountered a less favorable atmosphere marked by outdated and repressive teaching methods, racial discrimination, and hostility from Dominican professors . These negative experiences led Rizal to eventually transfer his studies to Spain after enduring the discriminatory environment for four years .

At the University of Santo Tomas, Rizal encountered systemic educational challenges characterized by the hostility of Dominican professors, racial discrimination against Filipino students, and repressive, obsolete teaching methods . These problems starkly contrasted with his experiences at Ateneo Municipal, where the Jesuits' advanced education system fostered intellectual growth and competition in a more supportive environment . The UST system's inadequacies highlighted the need for reform and modernization, influencing Rizal's desire for broader intellectual exploration beyond the Philippines .

Rizal's achievements during his first year at Ateneo Municipal, where he ascended to the position of 'emperor' and was recognized as the brightest student, had a profound influence on his academic trajectory and reputation . This early success established him as a brilliant and competitive student, setting a precedent for his future academic performances. It enhanced his confidence and motivation, propelling him to sustain high academic standards and earn high honors upon graduation, thereby bolstering his growing intellectual reputation .

José Rizal faced two primary challenges during his admission process at Ateneo Municipal: he was late for registration and was considered sickly and undersized for his age . These issues were overcome through the intercession of Manuel Xerez Burgos, who was a nephew of Father Burgos, allowing Rizal to be admitted despite these hurdles .

The Jesuit educational philosophy at Ateneo Municipal significantly contributed to Rizal's development by incorporating rigorous discipline and religious instruction—values that emphasized moral character development and academic excellence . In his first year, this system fostered a competitive spirit and encouraged students to strive for high performance, which led Rizal to become the 'emperor' and the brightest student in his class, showcasing his aptitude and potential in a supportive educational environment .

Rizal's decision to study medicine at the University of Santo Tomas was driven by personal values deeply rooted in family concerns and a sense of duty. Primarily, he intended to cure his mother's failing eyesight, reflecting his familial loyalty and compassionate disposition . Additionally, he was influenced by Fr. Pablo Ramon's advice to pursue the field, indicating his respect for mentorship and guidance. This choice underscores Rizal's commitment to using education as a tool to address practical and immediate family needs .

Father Francisco de Paula Sanchez played a pivotal role in Rizal's literary development at Ateneo Municipal by inspiring him to study hard and pursue poetry . As a great educator and scholar, Father Sanchez encouraged Rizal's intellectual curiosity and creative expressions, which significantly shaped Rizal's perceptions of education's value. His mentorship helped Rizal channel his literary talents into poetic works, reinforcing his appreciation for literature as a medium for reflective and philosophical discourse .

During his time at the University of Santo Tomas, Rizal articulated his experiences and ideals through significant literary works, including "To the Filipino Youth" and "The Council of the Gods" . In "To the Filipino Youth," he called for national awakening and empowerment of the youth, with an emphasis on intellectual enlightenment and cultural pride. "The Council of the Gods" showcased his critique of societal norms and reflected his philosophical contemplations. These works exemplify Rizal's use of literature to communicate his vision for social reform and national identity within a repressive academic setting .

The decision to use the surname 'Rizal' at Ateneo Municipal is significant as it marks a formal establishment of his personal identity and distancing from potential associations with his family name 'Mercado,' which was involved in the political context of the time . This choice reflects a strategic move to mitigate any negative implications due to his brother Paciano's association with the executed martyr, Father Burgos. It highlights Rizal's awareness of his social environment and his foresight in navigating it to ensure his educational advancement .

Rizal's decision to study in Spain was primarily influenced by the discriminatory and hostile environment he faced at the University of Santo Tomas, exemplified by the racial discrimination by Spaniards and the outdated, repressive teaching methods . Rizal's growing frustration with these conditions and his desire to gain a broader perspective and advanced education in a more liberal environment propelled him to seek academic opportunities abroad. His experiences in UST illuminated the limitations of the colonial educational system, spurring his quest for knowledge and reform that he believed could better be pursued in Spain .