The saying, “Life is what you make it,” perfectly describes the journey of Engr. Angelo Pigol Bautista, a young vendor who persevered to achieve his dream of becoming an engineer. His dedication and hard work truly paid off.
While some netizens argue that celebrating stories like Angelo’s might romanticize poverty, many were simply inspired by his determination. After all, he proved that it is possible to graduate and pass the board exams while simultaneously working to support oneself.
As reported by The Summit Express, Angelo sold various types of food depending on what was available, including chicharon and pie.
Through his determination, hard work, and perseverance, he was able to support himself throughout college and successfully earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Tarlac State University.
Photo courtesy: Angelo Bautista
Like many working students who faced the challenge of balancing their studies with earning a living, Angelo also experienced moments of doubt. He found preparing for the mechanical engineering board exam especially difficult.
Despite the challenges of being both a vendor and a student preparing for the board exam, the new graduate found the strength to persevere in his studies.
His hard work soon paid off when he passed the mechanical engineering board exam in 2024, officially becoming a licensed engineer.
Photo courtesy: Angelo Bautista (FB)
“Sa Inyo po, Amang Diyos, ang lahat ng papuri at pasasalamat. Karangalang itong ipinagkaloob sa akin ay alay sa Inyo. Salamat po sa pagpapala, pag-asang ibinigay Niyo sa akin at sa akin at sa pamilya ko. Sa kahuli-hulihang pagkakataon, kapangyarihan at kadakilaan ang ipinaranas Niyo. Maraming salamat po!” he said on his Facebook post on February 29, 2024.
Angelo expressed his gratitude to the people who helped and inspired him on his journey including his family, professors, friends, and loved ones.
“Sa aking mga ‘one call away’ friends, na laging nariyan nakaabang sa pag angat ng bawat isa, kilala niyo kung sino kayo, maraming salamat!”
“Pinaka-huli, saking minamahal (Yvonne Brithany Valentin) , sobrang grabe ng ambag mo sa buhay ko. Sobrang dami kong natutunan sa iyo. Salamat sa paniniwala mo sa akin, sa walang sawang pagtulong sa akin na makabangon tuwing nasa laylayan ako, sa pagiging kasiyahan at kalakasan ko tuwing sobrang lungkot, pagod, at umay na umay ko sa mga pinagdaraanan ko. Salamat, dahil naging inspirasyon ka sa akin. Sobrang mahal kita!”
“Sa pamilya ko, mga mahal sa buhay, at sa lahat po ng taong walang-sawang sumuporta, naniwala, at tumulong sa akin, maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat! Dahil po sa inyo nakalampas ako. Kaya para sa inyong lahat po ito!” he said.
Balancing work and board exam review can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s definitely achievable. Here are some tips to help you manage both effectively:
1. Create a Realistic Study Schedule
- Plan your study hours around your work shifts.
- Prioritize high-focus subjects during your most productive hours.
- Set specific study goals each day to track progress.
2. Maximize Your Free Time
- Use short breaks at work to review notes or flashcards.
- Listen to recorded lectures or podcasts while commuting.
- Dedicate weekends or days off to intensive studying.
3. Learn to Prioritize Tasks
- Identify urgent work tasks and study topics that need immediate attention.
- Avoid unnecessary distractions and time-consuming activities.
4. Use Efficient Study Techniques
- Apply active recall and practice problem-solving instead of passive reading.
- Summarize key concepts in your own words.
- Join study groups for better retention and motivation.
5. Communicate with Your Employer
- If possible, inform your boss about your board exam preparation.
- Request flexible work hours or fewer shifts closer to the exam date.
6. Take Care of Your Health
- Get enough sleep to retain information effectively.
- Eat nutritious meals to stay energized.
- Set aside time for short breaks to avoid burnout.
7. Stay Motivated
- Remind yourself of your goal—becoming a licensed professional.
- Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you.
- Celebrate small achievements to stay positive.
Congratulations, Engr. Angelo!
