Why did I choose English with Applied Linguistics: Initially, I took up Comp. Sci. Because at that time, it was the 'rage' and many graduates were taking up computer courses. On my 2nd year, I realized I am into English and many of my subjects were credited anyway. So all in all, it was definitely a good decision to shift to AB English, plus I was told the batch I was with was the pioneering batch for the Applied Linguistics department, wherein education units were incorporated to the curriculum.

About my college education: The good thing about taking AB English, albeit many would say, it is a general course... similar to Liberal Arts and probably something that people who are not quite sure of what to take would take, but I can honestly say that AB English does give you a view of all possible aspects, whether you wish to pursue another career after you graduate, when you wish to teach, or even take it as a pre-law course. The possibilities are endless.

My current job: I am technically holding the DARP Supervisor's position. DARP stands for Documentation, Analysis, Reporting & Planning. This department takes care of all documentation and as the dept says, reporting, analysis, and planning. I work for a BPO company which means all data and recording has to be submitted to the right people: QA, Managers, etc...

At the same time, since I initially joined the company as Language Trainer, I take care of special training given to agents, focusing on Speech and Communication. As a pioneering employee, I created the training plan for newly hired employees. I don't technically belong to the Training Dept, but from time to time, if there are agents who are in need of special 'training', they're given to me to be trained.

I also do specialized training, upon request, for other English schools. An example was a request to do Speech and Pronunciation Training for 3 weeks to the teachers of an English Academy (for Korean students).

Am I using what I learned in college: I would say, yes, practical and at the same time, learning all about the different countries' literature, may not have been as useful... but having that additional knowledge certainly didn't hurt.

I would definitely say what I learned during my college years was and is very useful. Learning how to prepare for a Lesson Plan was very important during my teaching years. Being able to properly analyze data and put thoughts into words definitely made me a better Supervisor and Lead to my office mates. Being well informed with Speech, Grammar and Pronunciation is a definite plus as I do my training.

How long did it take to find a job: Actually, it didn't take long. After I graduated, I already knew I wanted to teach, so I sent my resumes to schools and landed an English teaching job in one of the best schools in Cebu.

Do I recommend studying English with Applied Linguistics: In the BPO industry, starting salaries for good speakers, especially if you're an AB English graduate would range from 12k-15k. If you enter the bigger BPOs and you have the technical background and experience from other call centers, your rate would definitely go higher, around 15k-18k.

As a Language Trainer, salary range would be from 18k-20k, and it will definitely go up the longer you stay with the company.

Based on my experience, while I don't 'check the waters', so to speak, and go from one call center to another, I find this job very fulfilling, not only because I feel I am property compensated, but because I see that I am able to change, help, and improve someone in terms of language and speaking proficiency. I see how these agents who once have had challenges with the English language become better speakers...and customer service representatives.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: If you have love the English language, then I would say, 'yes, ' go for it. I believe, whether it is AB English, or any other course, if you do not have the heart for it, you will either regret taking the course, or simply shift to another one.