Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: Back in 2008, when I was supposed to decide what course I was going to take, there was already an influx of nurses in the country. The world, however, was moving into a technological phase and I wanted to be a part of it. Hence, I chose BS ECE because not only did I want to be an engineer but I was very inclined to technology advancements especially in the field of communications. On the practical aspect, scholarships were provided for BS ECE and I am aware of the job opportunities waiting for me at the end of five years, that is why I opted to study BSECE.

About my college education: I have learned so much in my five year-three terms/year stay in TUP Visayas but I believe that only a few could say that during their college stay they had made their own power supply, amplifier, equalizer, AM and FM radio, power speakers, antennas, working thesis prototypes (ours was an earthquake detector) and fixed Television sets and others. These are very practical skills taught at TUP Visayas.

Engineering is almost equivalent to mathematics. So, the hardest subjects were everything Mathematics. Calculus most especially. The most useful subjects are the laboratory subjects. Because anybody can read a book, but only a few could solder, identify electronic components and create electronic designs. And in the long run, outside the four walls of the classroom, the practical lessons would be the ones used while working for the industry.

Not to sound discouraging, but yes, examinations were difficult. There were six in a year. Three midterms, every 7th week and three end terms, every 14th week. But these are part of the quality training provided by TUP Visayas. Getting a grade below five (1-10 ranking system) is equivalent to failing that subject. Getting a grade of three and below, say goodbye to TUP Visayas. Others had given up right in the middle fight. But giving up is only for the faint of heart. If you don't have the heart for it, you should have chosen another course.

Not being afraid to get your hands dirty might as well be a requirement for BS ECE. If you want to succeed, you have to put yourself in there, your best foot forward. You can't make excuses like you are a girl and is not supposed to do the dirty work. Because if you do, you will never learn.

Respect your teachers. They are engineers who had gone before you and they know what road lies ahead of you. Study. Study as if your life depended on it. Because it does. Engineering is not easy. If it was, everybody would have been an engineer. But most of all, have fun. Because engineers are the most fun people. You will never see a more confusing crowd of studious and rowdy people.

My current job: I am an Assosciate Software Engineer for Accenture. I develop programs using SAP ABAP software for Unilever Europe and North America. These programs are used in the daily business undertakings of Unilever such as sales orders and purchase order reports to process the massive amounts of data they incur everyday.

Am I using what I learned in college: The most practical lessons I've learned in TUP Visayas are the lessons and industrial skills learned during our Supervised Industrial Training (SIT aka OJT) 1, 2 and 3. Some schools might only have one OJT period. Our school has three. One for every year, in the summer, from first year to third year.

The purpose of the SIT Program is to immerse the students on how "life" is when we step out of the walls of the institution. It might be learning the hard way. But yes, I learned. These SIT Programs also enables students to experience different working areas to aid them some day on what particular field they want to work in especially for ECE students wherein the study of ECE is very diverse and covers many areas of specialty. I had been exposed to a sugar milling company (First Farmers Holding Corporation), two local TV networks (Sunshine TV and SMILE TV) and a semiconductor manufacturing company (Allegro).

When it comes to the actual lessons taught in school, I would have to promote our programming (C, C++, VB6, DOS, Microcontrollers) classes. Especially now that I am an Associate Software Engineer, I make a living on programming.

How long did it take to find a job: After passing the board examinations in December 2013, I started applying mid January 2014. I had applied in two companies only, Taiyo Yuden and Accenture. I was accepted in both. In the end, I was the one who chose to be with Accenture.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Cliche this maybe, but for those who wish to study BS Electronics and Communications Engineering, it wouldn't be easy but it would sure be worth it. There is a vast sea of job opportunities once you've graduated. Everywhere that has computers or runs on electricity basically needs an Electronics Engineer.

ECE covers a very broad scope and it's graduates can work for manufacturing companies (Allegro, Maxim, Analog, ROHM, et al), TV networks (ABS-CBN, GMA), communication networks (PLDT, Globe, Smart), public transportation (airports, seaports) and outsourcing companies (Accenture, Global Fusion, Fluor Daniels).

A fresh graduate can expect a minimum of P18,000 depending upon the location. I had personally experienced a P20,000 minimum. More experienced employees can expect even higher salary rates. Technology related courses are also hot jobs abroad.

So, would I recommend BSECE? Yes, I definitely would. See you in the industry.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: Grades may not totally define a person but high grades certainly gives a big advantage. So, as much as possible, try to keep you transcript spotless because employers are always going to be sifting through transcripts.

A license is not a requirement in the future, but once again, is another big advantage over those who doesn't have. Hardware companies does not require licensed engineers but software and telecommunication companies do. Lastly choose a school that has a proven record in board examinations and employment, for example TUP Visayas. At one point, 2010, TUP Visayas alone was the Top Performing School. Hence, the "Nothing follows" attached to TUP Visayas.

About my college education: My college education was very exciting and interesting part of all levels of education for many reasons. First, the freedom to live independently is a gift to everyone especially to teenagers. Universities in our country are located in most popular cities, so parents are forced to send their young daughters and sons in there if and only if they can afford to sustain the daily needs aside from tuition fees while schooling. So young individuals with strong determination to finish their college studies without the support of their parents will really go there and use their young energies and talents just to enroll & study at big universities. It so happened that I am of them, I worked any part time jobs while schooling. It's not an easy task to do especially when you are an engineering student at MSU-IIT because our school is one of the top performing universities in the Philippines in the field of engineering. Students who survived the first two years of the any engineering course are really tough, bright and diligent students when it comes to academic performance and school projects. In our batch, I still remember how many overnights we did in the last semester of the last school year at IRC lab in the ECE Department just to finish our thesis project (we were two in 1 thesis project). But before I reached that stage, I did many sleepless nights studying for almost every day exams and frequent running to work whenever I am vacant from my school schedules. During our time way back 1998, internet is not yet popular to our country so I have to work part time at popular food chains like Jollibee & Greenwich and later part at Penshoppe & Globe Telecom Business Center. Nowadays, young individuals are blessed to do online freelancing jobs to have source of income without reporting to establishment just to render work. Secondly, I have learned to manage my time at school and work. Third, my ECE course opens me to the internet technology and how the software programs and hardware communicate with each other in order to see a visible useful thing to mankind. Fourth, my experience at Globe Telecom Business center shows me the Telecommunication field like how cell phones communicate from the transmitter to receiver side and the telephone system. Fifth, while doing our thesis project I learned to design website and making simple animation using Macromedia flash for the first time. Sixth, after graduating my ECE course I learned to design printed circuit boards and see the real output in my own eyes.

My current job: Currently, I'm a freelance PCB Design Engineer, blogger mom, and entrepreneur.

Am I using what I learned in college: It's during my college days that I learned the principles and theorems of electrical circuits and electromagnetism so I use it in simulating plane resonance, layouting components, and routing traces in PCBs.

How long did it take to find a job: In my last school year, while schooling I was hired as part time customer service associate at Globe Telecom Business Center at Iligan City, Philippines under GTWSP (Globe Telecom Working Student Program). My BS ECE course and the acquired knowledge I’ve learned after almost 6 years study were the great contributing factors that they hired me. Almost 1 year in there, I decided to apply another kind of job that somewhat closely related to my field of study so I applied online at Celestica Phils., Inc. as PCB Design Engineer. Without doubt, I got the titled position with God's grace and doing my best in there series of written exams and interviews. Applying job after graduation was easy for me as I say so because I got what I want after studying hard in my chosen course. And I owe that very much to my teachers & professors at COE (College of Engineering) in MSU-IIT.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Yes, I highly recommend to my friends and relatives the BS ECE course but it's up to their interest and determination to choose the course. As the trend of internet technology really populates our daily lives, it's much better to study BS ECE course for them to really understand the technology and how to use it to optimum level.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: Actually, my plan is to study medical courses in Lyceum but since they offer engineering courses in that year I enrolled in engineering course but taking ECE is the best decision I made because it gives a lot of opportunity after graduation.

About my college education: I can say ECE course was not easy; subjects were mostly a combination of analysis, mathematics, science and electronics. Our exam that time was right minus wrong and sometimes as I remembered only 1 question, so either you got 100 scores or zero. We started with 50 students from general engineering. We became 25 in third year because of a qualifying exam. In 5th year, there were only 12 in our batch left. I was very lucky to be one graduates of our batch.

My current job: I'm currently working as Telecommunication Engineer at Emirates Telecommunications Corportaion-ETISALAT. ETISALAT is a multinational Emirati based telecommunications services provider, currently operating in 16 countries across Asia, the Middle East and Africa. As of February 2014, Etisalat is the 14th largest mobile network operator in the world, with a total customer base of more than 167 million. Etisalat was named the most powerful company in the United Arab Emirates by Forbes Middle East in 2012.

Am I using what I learned in college: I can say all the hard work we done and lesson during my college days help me a lot in my current work. Those sleepless night are really paid off with better job and opportunity. Now I can say the word " Buti na lang nag Lyceum ako".

How long did it take to find a job: Right before I finish my OJT in PLDT. PLDT hired me after I completed 600hrs training program, then after 9 months I joined Smart Broadband NOC in manila and after 3 months working in SMART, ETISALAT hired me.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: I highly recommended it especially when your prefer to work in telecom industry plus ECE course is combined of two different specialization which is electronics and communication. In terms of salary since you are graduate of engineering it always high offer better than other courses, but it's always depend in the company.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: As a kid, I am amazed on how electronics machine works. (TV, Radio, Cellphone). I always wondered how can a SMS message be able to reach it's destination. I was told that ECE is the course for me to understand it.

About my college education: I learned how a cellphone works, about the processes it made before you be able to send a single SMS message. I also learned how to make a transistor radio, power supply and antenna.

For me, the hardest in subject was Control Systems, this subject is about integral transformation in mathematics that is mainly used in Physics or Engineering. This is the math that you will solve for a letter instead of a number.

My current job: I am a Product Manager for Security Products like CCTV, wireless IP radio, Access Control System. My job is basically to master the product and technology used.

Am I using what I learned in college: Based on my experience only 20% of what I learned in college can be used in my past job. The one that I often use is the Power Supply unit.

How long did it take to find a job: 2 months. (I started to look for a job 1 month after graduation)

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: There are alot of employment opportunities for ECE graduates. You can work as a Network Admin, IT professional, Telecommunications Engineer, Electronics Engineer and also a sales engineer.

Initial Salary is above minimum.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: If you will consider BS ECE, you should be firm about your decision, time is wasted once you decide to change course. Also, make sure that you will understand the actual use of every subject topic being discussed. Don't just settle on the theories.

About my college education: Studying BS ECE was not my first choice as I really wanted to take up Communication Arts. However, I was just average in my analytic skills and it seems like a popular course then, so I took it up. Engineering is not for the fainthearted and if this is really not your passion, stay away from it. I was challenged by the difficulty that I was in, that is why, I pursued it. Even if I ace all my minor subjects, the major ones are "major problems." Aside from endless sleepless nights for your project study and designs, you also need to get along well with your classmates and professors else you will not pass it. You will never survive alone in the field of engineering even if you are committed to work hard or have great problem-solving skills.

My current job: I am now working as a home-based freelance writer for online articles. I was diagnosed with a chronic illness a year after graduation, so the field of Electronics and Communications closed its doors on me. However, all the things I learned at engineering school was never wasted as I used them to teach high school an elementary students, or those who need help in their engineering course or Math subjects. My batchmates are all working abroad - in UAE, Japan, Europe, and US having the word "Engineer" before their names, so I believe that the education that we had from NEU was put to good use and were never wasted.

Am I using what I learned in college: I may not be able to practice all the technical skills that I learned, but the skills in organizing things, of being diplomatic, and precise in all that I am doing are things I learned in the university. I never missed a deadline, as that was very important in engineering. "Your work is a reflection of yourself," and "a good engineer always uses guidelines" are things I still lived by today.

How long did it take to find a job: Through my connections with those in the higher levels and in my own batch, I was able to secure a part-time job for Caltex Phils. in Makati for their Emergency Contingency Plan right after graduation and while I was reviewing for the board exam. However, I got sick on the day of the exam and was hospitalized for months, making me miss the exam. I never took the exam again, though I know I can pass it.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Communications and electronics are expanding and expanding and there will always be opportunities for anyone who want to be a part of this field. Whether you want to work in radio, television, navigation, broadcasting, satellite stations, and anything in between; including the latest technologies and gadgets - you will need a degree in ECE.

About my college education: For a tech savvy like me, BS ECE is an interesting course. If you are curious on how computers, gadgets, and appliances work then somehow, it will give the basic answers to your curiosity. It is very challenging. Super challenging. It requires a lot of math and the major subjects are so nose bleeding. Having a grade of 3 is gold and if you've got grades between 1.0 -1.75 you will be called "alien".

I had 8 math subjects in my first 3 years. The major subjects like electronics and electrical have lots of computations. Basically, you will compute most of the time. Do not worry if you hate math because it will be taught step by step (well, if you're lucky to have a professor who talks to students instead of talking to a blackboard) . Math is not just the requirement. It requires a logical and analytically thinking also because you have to imagine on the flow of current and on how electromagnetic work up in the air. Do not get overwhelm with the terms yet, Engineering have easier terminologies compares to medicine.
Passing the subjects is up on your perseverance to finish your studies. I hated math when I was in high school but I studied it carefully and diligently in college. You need a lot of self-motivation because most of the time you have to self-study. You can't just depend it all to your professors.

My current job: Currently, I chose to be a full time mom to my son but I was a Test Engineer in a semiconductor company in Laguna before I got married.

Am I using what I learned in college: It was way different when I got out to the real world. Mostly of the equipment was new to me which I did not see or I didn't had a chance to use when I was in college. So, it's like back to zero that I have to input new information again. Luckily, there is a training before you start a job on the floor.

How long did it take to find a job: After graduation, I took a review for 6 months. A preparation for the board exam. Unfortunately, I did not pass the exam. But right after the exam I got a job as a Test Engineer.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: BS ECE has a wide variety of employment opportunities. Your could work in semiconductor companies, telcos, banks and even in IT related works. If you will be looking for your first job, look for a field of work that you really want to focus on. So, you will not be "job hopping".

It is a very interesting career. You will learn a lot. What you had learned from school is just the basics. It will a totally experience once you got to the floor.

If you will be working here in the Philippines, especially if you are a fresh graduate, the salary is not satisfying. It is not what you had imagined when you are still in college. Mostly, Engineers are not being paid hugely here in the Philippines unless you have a lot of experience. If you want a big salary and huge compensation try applying abroad like in Singapore.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: I chose this course since this has been my interest since I was a child. I've always been a person of much interest in electronics, computers, robots and gadgets. I also thought that I would have great opportunity with this course.

About my college education: The course I chose is difficult for me since I encountered different math, electronics, physics and other hard subjects. I think I succeeded in this course because I was able to follow instructions as well as prioritize my important subjects. Time management is crucial and I was able to have my own system when lots of work needs to be done. I learned how to multitask without sacrificing the quality of my output. I was able to be creative enough to make dreadful task seem easy. I learned how to be resourceful and use every available resource that I can find. I was well trained to be in fast paced environment.

My current job: Radio Network Performance Engineer.
I now work for a Japanese company and we are optimizing Japan's mobile networks.

Am I using what I learned in college: It's not the learning that I was able to fully use but it is the way I work and produce my output. I was able to multitask and produce quality output. I was able to manage my time and prioritize what is most important. I was well trained for heavy workload so now I was able to handle it nicely.

How long did it take to find a job: I was able to get a job a month before my graduation and I passed the board exam while working.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: My course has different career paths, it can be on telecommunications, semiconductor industry, networking industry, programming industry, broadcasting industry, navigation industry and a lot more. There are many opportunities for my course. Learning will never stop since there will always be advancement of technology. Salary level is average for fresh graduates specially in the Philippines.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: 1. Follow instructions carefully
2. Listen and ask questions in order to understand
3. Always consider the resources you have
4. Think of ways to make projects/homeworks/tasks easier
5. Have enough time to read and be updated on recent technological news

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: Since I am a child, it has always been my hobby to fix my broken toys. Especially my battery operated toys. Upon growing up, my interest grew when I learned the basics of electric flow. This led me to the realization of what I want to take in college. And that is engineering.

About my college education: ECE can be both hard and easy. If you're really interested with it, it would be very fun to learn and study. Majority of the subjects are technical and mathematical in nature, but it becomes exciting when you put them into practical use with projects and assignments. Many students fail the course due to lack of perseverance in studying but nonetheless, with hard work they also managed to finish the course. It is fun to learn, you just need to see yourself very much involved in doing the different projects.

My current job: I practiced ECE for quite some time, but I already gave it up and started doing volunteer work in teaching children. We gave them free tutorials in our own charity work and gave them values formation too including their parents. We also try to look for sponsors to gave them scholarships.

Am I using what I learned in college: I can say not really. Because when you land on a job, the company will give you the training that you need for the job. And those are not necessarily the things you learned in school.

How long did it take to find a job: After graduation, I didn't apply for a job for 2 years. But after that I easily landed on a job when I tried to apply.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Yes, maybe. If you really like it, I think you can land a better career with it. Starting salary may range from 10k to 15k and you performed well, maybe you can get an early promotion or raise.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: Make sure that you really like it. Check your interest if it matches the course. Think ahead of the future if you see yourself working as one. And if not, maybe you need to reconsider your choices. Have fun in all you do.

About my college education: In 1998, I have a friend that was taking up the course BSECE and he told me that when you graduate from this course, you'll be able to work on various jobs such as those related on electronics and those related on telecommunications and even on the radio stations, TV stations and many more. That time, I am interested in taking up an engineering course or an architecture course because two of my uncles were a licensed civil engineer and an architect.

I like the course because I like math subjects and solving problems.

You can consider it as a difficult one because if you are taking an engineering course, the passing mark should be 70% to those math subjects unlike those non-engineering courses which are only 50% passing mark in order to complete the subjects.

I also like the challenge that some of my classmates are DOST scholars and although I am not, I can compete with them and have grades that are similar to them. And it is my pride if I passed on difficult subjects and some of those DOST scholars did not. I consider it at that time, one of my accomplishments.

My current job: I am currently a Systems Analyst, Team Lead for Java EE development on one of the leading international IT outsourcing companies here in the Philippines.

Am I using what I learned in college: During my college, there are programming subjects and I was able to apply those skills and the attitude of working hard, studying hard, doing research was useful on my professional career.

How long did it take to find a job: When I graduated March 2003, I reviewed first for the board exam.
When I passed the board exam on November 2003, I was hired by my current company on February 2004.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Yes, I would recommend it because the course still is in demand since that electronics and telecommunications is still one of the industry groups that keeps our economy alive.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: I knew I wanted to do engineering, but was undecided on which course to take. In the end I just looked for the "most challenging" engineering courses, and chose out of whim.

About my college education: The three undergraduate courses offered by the Electrical and Electronics Engineering Institute (EEEI) are notorious for being among the most challenging engineering courses in UP. Proceed with caution. To survive in this department, you MUST be one of the following: really smart, really industrious, or really passionate. Anything less and you will find yourself course-less by your third year.

By the time you get to the higher-level majors, wearing the same clothes on the exam day and the day before would be normal. You will bulk up a bit from bringing your toolbox with you wherever you go (and occasionally be denied entry to establishments because your music-composer-from-scratch has an LCD, buzzer, and blue and red wires). Your resourcefulness will drastically improve as well, considering the common scenario where you need to complete two problem sets, a machine problem, and an exam in one week.

Assuming you won't be dissuaded by it's degree of difficulty, this course is actually quite interesting. While most Philippine universities offering BS ECE focus on the practicalities of electronics, the EEEI focuses on research and development. Hence, do not expect to learn how things work, but rather how to actually make things yourself. The professor pool of EEEI is also quite impressive; it is composed of three generations of educators who, while working in the academe, also participate in R&D activities in both the private and public sector.

My current job: I used to be an IT consultant for SAP. Right now I'm doing SAP governance for a non-IT company.

Am I using what I learned in college: I must admit that I've never used anything more complex than V = IR in real life.

One of my important realizations in life is that your college course doesn't exactly define what you will do afterwards. An engineering course (no matter what kind) can get you into an array of jobs, from a design engineer to a management trainee to a consultant.

However, while that course on your diploma doesn't really define anything, the actual skills that you develop during college has an impact on how well you execute your job initially.

So in the end, I never used the book knowledge I got from BS ECE, but the thinking discipline and perseverance that I got accustomed to was a key factor for a strong career take-off.


How long did it take to find a job: Had a few job offers a month before graduation.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Whether you intend to practice electronics engineering or not, BS ECE will sharpen your intellect and impose a kind of discipline that can only be acquired from a few other college courses out there.

In terms of salary, it still depends ultimately on which career you choose, since as discussed previously, graduating from an engineering course in UP opens up a variety of career opportunities.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: As an engineer, you will have above average analytical and problem solving skills. Hence, you are capable of learning faster than others, and tend to be more systematic in your activities. Your key weakness will probably involve soft skills, which is something that can be avoided by involving yourself in student organizations during college.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: Had a little idea about it since it's the same course taken by my uncle and so I have additional resources when it comes to books and other references.

About my college education: The phasing is fast since we only have 11 weeks per term to finish a subject which is equivalent only to 30 meetings.
For me EE related subjects we're a bit difficult base on my experience, maybe a factor that affects it is my professor on that subject. Math subjects were enjoyable since I like math compared to other subjects. Mostly, boring subjects were minor subjects. Interesting one is my chosen track which is CISCO networking.
in ECE you can specialize in different fields. Cisco Networking is just one of it's specialization. There is also Power Electronics, Industrial Automations, Communications, Microelectronics, and Robotics.

In order to succeed first you need to focus but still don't forget to take time to relax. Extra effort is a must since you only got less time to study a subject per term. Know your priorities specially when exams, projects, and other activities fall on the same deadline. I also experienced a lot of failures but I manage to overcome all of it and was able to finish my course.

My current job: My job is as a NOC level 1. Basically we monitor and support employees of our company. Monitor in terms of servers in which we make sure the no servers were down and all connections are working. Support in terms of desktop support for employees within the company.

Am I using what I learned in college: Basically what I've learned in college that is useful in my current job is my knowledge regarding my chosen track or specialization which is CISCO Networking. In order to monitor the servers and the network itself, I was able to use commands and troubleshooting process learned from my subjects on CISCO fundamentals.

How long did it take to find a job: I did not find a job right after graduation since I review first in preparation for the board exam. It took 3 months before I got a job starting from the day I started to pass resume online and attend job fairs.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Yes, I would recommend it.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: When you start as an ECE student, no matter what happen try and try until you finish it. Balance your time to study and to relax. Study hard but pray harder.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: First, I would like to share my criteria on how I came up with my decision to pursue Engineering.
1. Choose a field/subject that you think, you will excel and will love to study. Because if you do not want what you're doing, you wil end up dropping the course or shifting to other course which I believe is a waste of time and money. In my case, I excel in math in my high school days so I look for courses that are more on mathematics
2. Choose a course that you believe will give you a stable job.
3. (I think this applies mostly to girls). Choose a course that will still be okay even if you have a family already.

During my last year in high school, the in demand is nursing, I almost join the "hype", however, because of this criteria, I dropped the idea of pursuing nursing.

About my college education: Studying alone in Mapua is very challenging which means the whole studying period regardless of the course is challenging.
For the course, it's fun and interesting specially when you are in the higher years and you're already taking up major subjects.

Sipag, tiyaga, at diskarte. I think these three are essential to succeed in this course or any course in Mapua. I strongly believe, even if you're not the smartest in the class, you can pass the course if you have these. And not but not the least, faith to God. Super.

My current job: Im Radio Network Optimization Engineer. Supporting Softbank Mobile Japan

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes but not all.
One should not bear in mind that what you study in college will be the same in what you do in your job. Just like what I said, EcE is very broad. Anyway, Mapua trained us so well for us to fit in industry. But what Stayed in me are the traits and attitudes. And I'm still applying those until now. I am very thankful and blessed.

How long did it take to find a job: Actually I was already employed before I graduated :)

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: ECE or Electronics and Communications Engineering is so broad so you do not need to worry about jobs. There is a lot. You can go to telecommunications, it, electronics, name it. Also, since the world is changing very fast towards high technology, this course will open a lot of opportunities.
I think everyone who are graduate of this course will agree that if you are graduate of this course, you will not end up jobless specially if you are graduate of mapua. I want also to add that Mapua has a center for careers so it's really good.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: When I was trying to choose which course to take, I selected this because in my mind, it was kind of the sum of my strengths: Math and Communication. Confident as I was, I felt challenged to take up something different and one-of-a-kind at that time. Of course when I started studying, it wasn't as simple as I expected it to be.

About my college education: The first thing I would say about my course (BS Electronics and Communications Engineering) is that, it's definitely NOT easy. When I started out, it was really difficult for me to adjust to the high-pressured environment. We, Lasallians, were trained in a trimester curriculum and we really pushed ourselves to give extra effort because of the time frame. It was a very fast-tracked path but I can say that I enjoyed every day at it. Yes, there were sleepless nights because of projects and exams, there were terrifying course card distribution days because you weren't sure if you've done enough to pass, but you wouldn't really appreciate the success if you hadn't worked hard for it. It was a very interesting course as it tackled technology in terms of both hardware and software. As technology continues to evolve, it was really cool to experience it firsthand and to be able to be part of innovations that could change the way we live life. Throughout the course, I was also active in extra curricular activities that balanced it out. I was an executive board member of the ECE Society and this helped me a lot in developing not just my academic skills but leadership as well. At school, I met great friends and mentors that had a great contribution of making my life there enjoyable.

My current job: My current job is an Associate Consultant at SunGard Philippines. SunGard is an international IT company that is based in the US. It has numerous businesses but the largest of all these businesses is focused on Financial Systems -- the business where I am right now. Here, I am part of the Corporate Liquidity team where we provide solutions for Liquidity and Cash management. We cater to corporations who require a system to organize their cash flows and their entire treasury system. As a consultant, I work in Client Services where we support our existing clients who are using our systems, I also work in Professional Services where we implement our system to new clients and build a customized environment for their own specific needs.

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes, but not all. Most of the theoretical knowledge I learned back in college were more of "backbone building". I wouldn't be able to understand the practical knowledge if I hadn't learned of the theoretical first. On the technical side, I was able to use my knowledge in programming, computer applications, analysis and problem-solving, and documentation. For the non-technical skills, I was able to apply leadership, working in a group, communication and public speaking, and creativity.

How long did it take to find a job: I graduated October of 2010. By the end of November (2010), I took the Electronics Engineer Board Exam and passed it. I took a rest for a few months and got a job at Canon Information Technologies Philippines (my first company) on April of 2011. I rested for about 4 months.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: For employment opportunities, yes I would recommend this course. Like I mentioned earlier, this course has a broad range of career options to choose from, may it be in the field of Design, Telecommunications, Information Technology, Network, and many more. The salary level is another thing that varies on field options. But I can assure that the level of salary is most likely to be above average.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: I would advice for you to think about what you want to become when you graduate. This course has such as broad range of career options and by the time you graduate, it is a little difficult to choose where to build up your own career.
If you already decide on that, then the next thing to do is to equip yourself. An Engineering course requires a lot of brain work and it's really hard to keep up if you're not prepared. It helps to be a wide reader and aware of a number of topics you think might be discussed and tackled at school. Of course, the interest on these things should be your greatest asset.
Do not be afraid to seek help -- most of the time you'll need it.
Lastly, ENJOY it. There is no better way to go through college than having that study-life balance in you. Have time to be serious and study and on the other hand, set aside some time to have fun and unwind.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: Interest in Electronics/robotics.

About my college education: Studying BS ECE is enjoyable for me and at the same time, very challenging. Challenging in terms of studying while filling my duties as a Student Assistant. I was able to learn basic electronic and communication principles which I am now able to apply at work. While there are some subjects that are very difficult (i.e. Electromagnetics, Advance ECE math, Communication Theory, Control Systems), so difficult that some students (even myself) failed and had to repeat, eventually, you will learn that with perseverance, you will be able to master the subject and pass. Also, studying engineering is not an easy thing, you will definitely have to exert effort in long hours of studying and work overnight at some projects. But in the end, if you do it Religiously, your effort will be worth it.

My current job: Assist Sales of the company's products, systems and services via telephone and electronic means.

Am I using what I learned in college: All the principles of Electronic and Communications as well as Engineering Economy subjects.

How long did it take to find a job: 10 months, though I used the 8 months for the review of Board exam.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Yes. Graduating as a BS ECE opens the windows to a broad selection of Employment opportunities, from Academe, Broadcasting and Network, telecommunications, aviations, Production, design, research and development, Sales and others.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: If you really love your course, persue it. Do everything, study hard, exert effort but make sure you try to enjoy it.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: It was the popular affordable courses I can choose from. Originally, I wanted to become a doctor. My brother who took Mechanical Engineering from the same school influenced me to take the course. He was a working professor in the school which cut my tuition fee in half.

About my college education: The beginning is always the hardest. I was clueless of the course I was taking. Semester after semester I got used to the environment and made friends who I got along with.

Being studious and hardworking helped me get through every examination week. Having friends with the same frame of mind helped me strive to study hard and reach the goal of graduating.

My current job: I now own my electronics and telecommunication device business. From being a technician, I earned and saved enough to establish my own company.

Am I using what I learned in college: Everything I learned in the university I utilized to my advantage in the professional environment. The long nights of memorizing lessons paid off. This course you have to pay close attention to because it's clients equipment that are at stake. The camaraderie with my college friends I leveraged as a good starting network in business.

How long did it take to find a job: Not long at all. Around one month. I took a good vacation after graduation and the first telecommunications company who called me, I worked for.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Studying this course is tenfold. This course pays well. It is one of the in-demand course in telecommunications industry. Without an ECE graduate, it would be hard to imagine living without today's cellphone, two-way radios and land line. Engineers are responsible for the signal on your phone, local exchange and/or today's internet connection-to mention a few. Knowing this, it makes companies pay more because of the demand in talent.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: You have to have the natural talent of understanding the logic in numbers and devices. If you choose this course, think about it a lot of times. It could be heart-breaking for some who study this course for more than four years only to fail the licensure examination for electronics and communications engineering. On top of that, focusing on a specific foreign language will advance your employment in top communications company.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: As a young kid, I had the knack to fix broken things or improve electrical gadgets that are already working. Unfortunately, all of them ended up in worse shape than before. This curiosity and trial and error behaviour led me to more tinkering and dabbling with other electronic stuff. The school I went to in high school, an exclusive school for boys also influenced me to go into my chosen course. I belonged to a section that specializes in electronics.

About my college education: During the time I was in school, mobile phones were still in it's infancy and computers were just being introduced in schools. So after school, when this technology was already being marketed to the general public, I already had a good idea of what it was all about. And though technology is fast changing, I always know it's basic foundation.

For me the most challenging subjects were, of course, the math ones, most especially those with the differentials and integrals. The rest were all right.

For me, and I always share this to everyone, going to school helps you decide and solve problems in life in a rational and logical manner. It does not matter which course you take. But I think in all honesty, engineers solve problems better than the others. Maybe because we have a scientific approach on solving things.

Passing examinations really depend on who is taking it. For me sometimes it is difficult sometimes it is too easy. Depends on how you prepared for the tests. In my batch only a few transferred to other courses. But there were also some who shifted to ours.

I would say if you love the course, you love your classmates and you have the proper mindset there is no way you will not finish the course with flying colors.

My current job: I am a self employed person who spends of my time on the computer promoting different well being products to others. I also do photography and videography.

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes, definitely. I worked as a technical staff for a post production company doing TV and radio programs and advertisements. I taught computer education to grade school to college students. And my current passion and job involves using electronic gadgets like the computer which I personally upgrade and repair.

How long did it take to find a job: I was already working while in college. I worked my way through college.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Yes, I would recommend BSECE to those who are thinking of a good college course. BSECE graduates are always in demand in our country and outside the country because of the variety of expertise an ECE graduate can learn from school.

The salary depends on the company. For a board passer, I would say P30,000 monthly is a decent starting salary. While a more experienced and licensed graduate can earn probably P50,000 monthly which does not include consultation work.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: My father told me it's good course to take and there's a lot of opportunity that awaits me after I graduate.

About my college education: The course is quite difficult. I had very little background on it when I've entered college and I was very shocked. We all know that the usual engineering courses are very hard with a lot of math, science and technical stuff. It needs a lot of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifices. The kind of friends and the people you hang out with will play an important role in your stay. They can help you in your difficulties. They can make your stay more fun and have good memories of college. However, beware of those who will pull you down and are bad influence. Lastly, a very good 'diskarte' in what you do is very important. Use it wisely. :)

My current job: I'm an RF engineer here at Japan.

Am I using what I learned in college: What I learned in college are fundamentals of what I'm applying at work. The things that I'm doing at work were not taught at college but it helps a lot given that you have background on it.

How long did it take to find a job: It took me around 4 month because I wanted to take a break and I was looking for a good first job.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: BS ECE has a lot of opportunities that awaits. It has broad scope which include Telecommunications, Broadcast, Electronics, IT, etc. These field are booming in these years and there are more opportunities that awaits. Salary depends on what field you want to join.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: Find out what you really want. Everything is easy if you like what you are doing. If finally you arrive to the conclusion that you wanted to study this course be prepared for the hardship and enjoy the leanings that you will get. Be prepared for sacrifice and rest assured at the end it will be rewarded at the end.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: My parents actually chose this course for me. But sadly they want it for me.

About my college education: It took me almost 8 years to finish this said course. Maybe it's not what my heart and brain wants and that's the reason behind of long years on university.
BsEcE is a no joke course. its hard if you don't focus on your study well. its hard when you don't have friends and partners to deal with it. The course was enjoyable yet difficult. We do a lot of practical works like projects and doing the theories in real situations.

To be able to succeed this course you need to be studious and need a lot of focus on the subjects and be serious on projects. Also acquiring friends is a lot of help while taking this path.

My current job: Still on review for taking board exam soonest.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: YES BsEcE is one of best course at the moment. Because it's the range of the course it self is what exactly needed on this electronic age.
As my friend said, Its very easy to find a job once you got your engineer license so don't be bother for the near future. And you can work freelance also because in bsece we do tons of programming language which makes us very wide when it comes to job opportunities.


Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: Just study hard and do a lot of advance research on upcoming lessons. Understand well the theories because you'll apply them on your practical works during midterms and finals. Be friendly and find some time to unwind for you to not to think that this course is not meant for you.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: Back when I was in HighSchool, I am so interested in Computers and I'm good at Mathematics and so I came up with that particular course.

About my college education: This course is never boring for you`ll learn new stuffs, very interesting for inventors, designers, and hackers, somehow it is fun for you`ll experience being an inventor. The course is really difficult for you gotta understand things like the charges, lightning, current, signals, waves, frequencies. Do you know how they look like? Even I don't know! x)

You gotta understand, You wont pass the subject alone, You will need friends to help you, encourage you, make you laugh all the time. You will need to focus on the subject matter. Do extra efforts. Be proactive.

My current job: IT Operations Associate, (IT Field, yes, still related to ECE)

Am I using what I learned in college: Nope, I didn't use it technically, but you'll need it as a foundation in your job. I used the training provided by the company. The lessons you learned in college will be your foundation in your job. Its like, how can you solve engineering problems, if you don't know math (which you learned in High School). Same thing with job, you wont understand your job, if you didn't learn the basics or theories in college.

How long did it take to find a job: I guess 3 months.

Do I recommend studying Electronics & Communications Eng: Yes

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: Its an exciting yet challenging course. You'll learn new stuff. You will understand how things work.

Why did I choose Electronics & Communications Eng: I really don't know. After graduating in High School, I thought, I could take any courses that I want. I really want to be a lawyer but my brothers told me to take any course in engineering and pursue my dream later.

About my college education: WOW! That's a very tough question and brings back memories. Memories that I really want to forget and start a new life but I know it can't be done because it is now part of my blood, flowing through my veins. A pure blooded Mapuan. To put it simply difficult is not the best word to simplify it all but HELL indeed.

Being in the above average student of our batch, I conclude early on that it's not yet my time to be the best in terms of the academic subjects, so I put my time enhancing my attitude and character. And it pays off when I became an Engineer.

My current job: MHPS technical services

Am I using what I learned in college: This is what I pictured out when I was in college. It is very different in work compared to school. We didn't solve math or physics problems here. It's a different type of environment. So what I bring here back in my college life was my attitude and character on everything that we do.

How long did it take to find a job: 2 months

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: Well! In my college life, I realize that there are 3 types of students in every courses.

1. Mayaman na Mayabang - they are the rich one's that can afford to take the same subject no matter how long as long as they have the money and doesn't know how to concede. And that is the perfect example of not giving up for your dreams.

2. Best Players - They are the Elite one's, the Presidential listers that will beat everyone. They have the God given talent to understand the subject in an instant. They always solve problems in their spare time and cannot afford to take the complete solution to that. To put it simply, they are the perfect example of the word BEST. Tough indeed.

3. Average players - (This is were I belong) We are the kind of students in Mapua where the word BALANCE is perfectly watch. We minggle with the Mayaman na mayabang and to the best players. We always keep our schedule balance at everything we do. In order to keep up with the best players, we mix