Alyssa Eliana N. Bautista’s journey is a testament to perseverance and determination. A proud Cum Laude graduate of Bachelor of Science in Criminology from PHINMA Araullo University in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, she claimed the top spot in the July 2024 Criminologist Licensure Examination (CLE) with an outstanding score of 92.10%.
In an interview, Alyssa shared glimpses of her life. She is the second of three siblings, with a father who works as a farmer and a mother who is a teacher. Interestingly, criminology wasn’t her initial career choice. After failing the entrance exam at a state university, she used the setback as motivation, pushing herself to meet expectations and focusing on her studies.
Photo courtesy: Alyssa Eliana N. Bautista/Facebook
Preparing for the board exams was an intense period for Alyssa. Doubts crept in, and she feared failing—an outcome she felt would be disappointing, especially as a Cum Laude graduate. However, she poured all her energy into her review. Even when she fell ill during the second day of the exam, she powered through, determined to give it her all.
Alyssa had long aspired to be a topnotcher, a dream reinforced by a review lecturer who encouraged students to “dream big.” Her message to aspiring achievers is straightforward: keep dreaming and never give up. She reminds others that the path to success is not smooth, often fraught with challenges, but perseverance makes the journey worthwhile.
Her advice resonates with a vivid metaphor: “When challenges rain down on us, let your dreams serve as an umbrella—for yourself and your family.”
Photo courtesy: Alyssa Eliana N. Bautista/Facebook
Looking ahead, Alyssa plans to pursue her next goal of becoming a lawyer by enrolling in law school.
Passing the board exam, even when unwell, demonstrates resilience, determination, and a commitment to achieving one’s goals despite challenging circumstances. Here are some reasons why it is important:
- Professional Certification: The board exam is a requirement for licensure in many professions. Passing it is essential to practice your chosen career legally and officially.
- Validation of Effort: Preparing for the exam involves months or even years of hard work. Succeeding despite health challenges honors that dedication and effort.
- Career Advancement: Passing the exam opens doors to career opportunities that might otherwise remain inaccessible, setting the stage for future growth.
- Personal Fulfillment: Achieving this milestone boosts self-esteem and reinforces a sense of accomplishment, proving to oneself that challenges can be overcome.
- Inspiration to Others: Overcoming difficulties to succeed can serve as motivation for peers, family, and others facing their own struggles.
- Commitment to Responsibility: Professional exams often signify readiness to take on responsibilities within a given field. Passing it despite adversity shows a strong sense of duty and professionalism.
- Goal Realization: For many, passing the board exam is a step toward lifelong dreams, making it a turning point that justifies pushing through temporary hardships.
Ultimately, succeeding under such conditions highlights a person’s strength and dedication, both qualities that are valued in any profession.
Congratulations, Alyssa, on this remarkable achievement!