Testimonials of AB in English Graduates from the Philippines

Why did I choose English: I wanted to be proficient in English while learning American literature. My dream was to be a flight stewardess of American Airlines. It would have been most convenient for me to speak English well.

About my college education: The literature readings and the oral sessions of the English language honed my knowledge and ability to speak and write good English.

On the other hand, I discovered that Math and any subject related with numbers were not my favorites.

The class of each subject did not always have the same students and, as far as I know, there was none who failed.

The course was not difficult. One just have to be conscientious in his studies.

The traits of being responsible, sociable, and likeable are what I learned during my college years.

My current job: I am now a Medical Representative of an American pharmaceutical company doing business in the Philippines. I go around my area of responsibility promoting my products to doctors. I make periodic reports on the sales of our products.

Am I using what I learned in college: Being sociable, amiable, and responsible are the practical things I learned in my college years which have helped me up to now. I travel a lot and I had made many friends among the doctors and clients of our company.

How long did it take to find a job: Within a year after my graduation, I was hired by United Laboratories, Inc. as a medical representative. My proficiency in English was my advantage.

Do I recommend studying English: People who like to write, read, and speak English well should consider taking up this course as it might be the best choice for them. It is a great opportunity for a person who likes to be in the print media using English as it's medium.

This course is a plus factor in getting employment in big companies especially those owned by Americans and Europeans. One who is a graduate of this course can easily be promoted by the big bosses who are Americans or British.

About my college education: Being an English Major is all about being passionate in English language and literature. In this course you'll learn not only the linguistic terms and grammar but also the appreciation in literature. You'll get to read and discover the richness of literature. In a way you'll get to learn not only the words but a little bit of science, history, architecture, and whatnot. In other words, this course has taught me to discover, love, and appreciate life with all it's ups and downs.

My current job: Editorial Assistant

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes, the university has taught me to be strong and take disappointments as an inspiration to strive harder. While the course has taught me not the absolute formula in everything but the appreciation in langauge and literature and the conviction to stand in your ground despite all the taunting.

How long did it take to find a job: Two weeks

Do I recommend studying English: I would recommend the course that I took up to those who are passionate in English language. This course do not have formulas and specific terms for everything becamay not make us land in lucrative jobs immediately

About my college education: It was great because, having shifted from BS Med Tech in the same school, the teachers and the curriculum was very easy and loose. The course was on literature so the professors, especially the dean, were very open-minded and didn't care how you went about your course as long as you delivered.

My current job: I am a Language and Tech trainer for a call center.

Am I using what I learned in college: I am using my knowledge on English Communications. Then again, the reason I took that course is so that I can work my classes around the demands of my job. I shifted to a course I wouldn't have to give any effort to pass because I didn't have the luxury of time of someone who was solely studying.

How long did it take to find a job: I was already working by the time I was eighteen.

Do I recommend studying English: Yes, mastery of the English language in today's world is essential. The Philippines is going global with over 100,000 BPO jobs available per year. Ninety-nine per cent of the time, the lack of English proficiency is the reason applicants don't get the call center job. That is sad, considering the BPO industry is a very high-paying profession and there is greater opportunity in the call center to go abroad as compared to other careers.

Why did I choose English: It's what my scholarship program suggested me to choose in college.

About my college education: I learned a lot of things in AB English: Developmental Reading, Argumentation and Debate, Mythology and Folklore, Language and Culture, Speech Communication, Intro to Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, Translation and a lot more. The most difficult one was Thesis Writing. I enjoyed Elementary Spanish 1-4 the most.
It's not that difficult to pass the exams, as long as you maintain having good attendance, participate well in class and submit the requirements on time. Some failed and repeated a few subjects (backlogs).

This course requires a lot of readings and writings; hence you must have patience, eagerness and determination to finish this successfully.

My current job: I currently work as an English professor at the Far Eastern University Diliman in Quezon City.
I handle Basic Communication Skills and Technical and Business Writing courses. I also act as Thesis English Adviser from time to time.

Am I using what I learned in college: English communication skills, American speech/accent, writing, reading, and comprehension skills, educational principles, lesson plan making, and being the best that I can be!

How long did it take to find a job: It took me only a month to find a job after graduation. My first job was being an online English instructor to Koreans of different levels/ages from 2007-2009.

Do I recommend studying English: I definitely recommend others to choose AB English if you desire to be employed as an educator, front desk officer, writer and the like.

A fresh AB English grad can expect to earn between 10-15 thousand pesos a month. A more experienced one can earn more than 20 thousand pesos a month depending on his chosen career, company and the country where he will work at.

It is fulfilling and interesting because one can also learn from the people he encounters every single day.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: If you want to improve your communication and writing skills, specifically in English, choose AB English. If you also aim for versatility, choose it.

About my college education: Learning this degree aims to train and produce students and graduates to become good speakers and writers of English language. Communication is an art. All arts focused of acquiring skills. To have a good command of written and spoken English, exposure and practice are required. This is what the degree is all about: Training it's students to acquire the necessary skills in both oral and written communication.

It was tough. I'm not that hardworking and diligent. But anyhow, I didn't even expect to graduate.

Well, it doesn't really require intelligence and special skills. It only requires you to have the will to learn, be socially aware and just need to have a brilliant mind set.

My current job: Payroll-Specialist

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes, I do.
Applying knowledge, skills and attitude I've got these over the years and put them into application for career growth and personal development.

How long did it take to find a job: 1 week before my graduation

Do I recommend studying English: There is broad range of jobs for BA English graduates. As opposed to the myth that there are no jobs for BA English graduates, jobs are available. They are not just labeled as ‘nurse’ for nursing graduates or ‘teacher’ for education graduates. Equipped with good background of literature, exposure to researches and studies, good command of English, above average oral and communication skills, BA English graduates can easily fit in this competitive world. Initiative and guts are just additional traits you need because we can work as technical writers, researchers, creative writers, book editors, newspaper article writers, thesis writers, language teachers, language specialists, call center agents, and with additional units in education – teachers.

Having said all of these, it would still up to individual students. Courses do not guarantee success though it is an important factor. The key to success is determination – striving hard and harder.

About my college education: The entire time that I spent in school was a fulfilling one. There are a lot of hardships and trials that have hindered me from surviving but my determination to be able to finish school have helped me lot to succeed. I have earned a lot of friends but only few were real as time pass by. I can say that those years have been bitter sweet. Determination, loving your course and enough motivation is what it takes in order for one to survive.

My current job: I work as a Customer Care Representative for Cable TV provider

Am I using what I learned in college: I can definitely say that I was able to apply what I have learned from my University since with the current job that I have, I am dealing with all american clients. I need to have above average communication skills in order for us to avoid language barrier.

How long did it take to find a job: I was able to land a job immediately after graduation.

Do I recommend studying English: It really dependent on what your strengths and your likes are. It would be hard to succeed and finish a certain degree or course if you are only taking that because someone recommends it. You have to consider what your passions are. We must love what we are doing so it wold be easy for you to surpass it.

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.

Why did I choose English: I wanted to be a better writer. I thought that majoring in English would give me enough chances to hone my skill set.

About my college education: Majoring in English was very a fun time in my life. I studied literature, linguistics, communication, translation, foreign language, TESL, and even debate, among others.

As a liberal arts degree, it's level of difficulty is not exceedingly high, and anyone can pass it's exams if they study hard enough. Subjective exams are also very common. In fact, I don't remember answering a lot of objective-type tests when I was in college.

My current job: I'm a writer and editor for a company that provides online English tutorial services to students based in Japan. I take part in the format development and production of materials for ESL learners.

Am I using what I learned in college: Everything I learned in college would have been more useful if I were a language teacher.

How long did it take to find a job: I was already working as a part-time online English teacher before I graduated. A month after graduation, I worked as a creative writer and staff trainer before landing my current job.

Do I recommend studying English: Contrary to popular opinion, employment opportunities for English majors aren't really that slim. You just have to find your niche (e.g. Writing or teaching) and be ready to work your way around it. English majors, depending on their skills and interests, can become writers, teachers, public speakers, and even lawyers.

The salary, however, is not as desirable as in other professions. If you wish to earn as much money as possible, this major is not for you.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: Think twice before majoring in English. Don't treat this field as an easy route out of college. While it's demands are not as high as other majors, you are still expected to deliver a high level of excellence when studying, especially in areas that concern writing and teaching.

About my college education: It was a wonderful experience to study in the college. Although my expertise is in Mathematics, since I depended on scholarship, I was instructed to take English as a major for it will be useful in the future. I need to be grounded in the art of communication skills specially in English. With the help of the University, I took professional units and by God's grace I was able to passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers from the PRC.

My current job: Clergy- Pastor

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes, I would say that it is practical, in a sense, on my part I do communicate everyday with people of different status and backgrounds. With my exposure to extension areas of the University in different communities, I can easily relate with people. The good thing is, I can communicate in my third language learned which is English.

How long did it take to find a job: After my graduation on April 2008, by June of the same year I started working.

Do I recommend studying English: I believe, this course is a good preparation for employment and for further studies. In terms of employment, you can be on the HR, as training supervisor, in the mass media and the vast career which requires good communication skills. In terms of academe, you can be a professor in the tertiary, of course this will push you to enroll in the graduate up to post graduate studies. This course open doors for opportunities and possibilitities.

Why did I choose English Studies major in Language: I've always loved the English language and English was always my favorite subject in elementary and high school. Moreover, my 3rd year high school English teacher inspired me a lot. He recognized my talent in writing and motivated me to become even better at it. He taught English in a way that brought out his students' creativity and even promoted fun and camaraderie. I wanted to become like him so I took up BA English Studies.

About my college education: At first, I thought it was easy. I mean, hey, I love English, isn't that enough? I was so wrong haha :D I enjoy writing essays, but English Studies isn't just about writing. It became more difficult during the latter half, especially during the thesis-writing stage. I'm really thankful that we were allowed to have a thesis partner. Our chosen topic was code-switching in Japanese classes in UP, which required a lot of recordings and and encoding those! My partner and I definitely exercised a lot of patience in doing so, and our listening skills were greatly sharpened! It was quite tedious, but it was also fulfilling when we passed our thesis defense, plus the panel of professors even encouraged us to do more with our data as we had so much! Clearly, if you aren't keen on reading, writing, and basically doing a lot of research, this course isn't for you.

My current job: I am currently a freelance writer at Odesk, an online workplace.

Am I using what I learned in college: When it comes to all those extremely academic stuff and language theories, no. However, good grammar, a wide lexicon, and great reading & writing skills were advantages as I worked as an IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and a checker of essays written by Korean students. As a writer, my skills are appreciated by my past and current Odesk employers.

How long did it take to find a job: I already had one waiting for me a week before my actual graduation.

Do I recommend studying English Studies major in Language: Honestly, no. In hindsight, I should have taken up Education because a licensed teacher has more job opportunities than a freelance writer. However, if English is really your passion, then it can be a fulfilling course to complete. Salary-wise, well, this depends on your employer and what your definition of a good salary is. :) Although I regret taking up English Studies, I don't regret choosing to study in UP (I also passed Ateneo); it is something I wouldn't trade anything for. :)

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: They need to be passionate enough to pursue it. Knowing how to speak and write in English isn't enough; you also have to understand various academic concepts, theories, and whatnots related to the language. Moreover, I can never emphasize it enough: being patient is highly important.

Why did I choose English with Applied Linguistics: My father chose it because he didn't agree with my other choices. I enrolled and planned to transfer, but I always reached the department's 1.8 cut off grade. By the time I had more major subjects I developed an interest in linguistics and as a polyglot I could identify well.

About my college education: ○ principles and philosophies of applied linguistics, literature appreciation and analysis, teaching methodologies, speech communication, writing
○ most difficult: FoLa Nihongo and Algebra!
○ many shifted to another course because they didn't reach the cut off grade of 1.8 (2.0 previously) or found the course they desired. Out of 1 block section (around 50) only 8 English majors remained.
○ Algebra is my biggest frustration, but the other minor subjects broadened my knowledge. Most useful was Typing under Ma'am Abella. I merely passed, but it made me a fast touchtypist serving me well until now.
○ to succeed in this course, you should have an inclination to languages (especially English). It was awkward for me because English is not my second language growing up abroad. You should also have good analysis skills because the scope of language is deep and broad. Your self-confidence will be developed intensely.

My current job: 2017 (current job): German Language Teacher
2015 - 2016: government program community mobilizer
2006 - now: Tour Guide
2007-2009: English University instructor

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes, especially when deciding to do a career in the academe or where jobs requiring good communication skills.

How long did it take to find a job: After graduating in 2004 as the only Octoberian with an English with Applied Linguistics degree, I got a lot of calls from call centers that began sprouting then. I went home to my province though, had kids, enrolled to get a master's degree, trained to become a DOT accredited tour guide and then was hired by a university to teach English.

Do I recommend studying English with Applied Linguistics: Employment opportunities are vast wherever communication is needed. The salary can vary too. It is also great as a pre-law course because you learn to debate, proper argumentation with persuasion and conviction etc.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: As an English major (now Ling/Lit), be sure teaching might be your fallback or chosen career. Not necessarily, but that is the road where I am always led to no matter what other path I chose. I was very meek and shy, but now I jump up on stage to talk in front of many people. If you love to write this is it for you too. You can even pursue a job in broadcasting and journalism.

About my college education: Education for me is like a car race... full of obstacles and full of challenges. If you’re dedicated to win and do everything whatever it takes, you will reach the finish line.
My education was quite difficult due to lack of financial support, but it was not a hindrance for me to finish my studies. Finishing AB-English was the greatest ambition of my life. There are so many things I've learned especially in words, on how to pronounce correctly and properly. I find it so interesting knowing that I'm poor in English in high school, and I just think that it was a challenge for me and thanks to God. I made it!!!

My current job: Now my current job is a traditional bingo caller.

Am I using what I learned in college: I have an edge to some applications because I am fluent in English and articulate in pronunciation.

How long did it take to find a job: Finding job after I graduated was not so difficult. I became a call center agent in our city and worked for almost two years. Due to health reasons, I did resign for good. I also Became an emcee for some activities in our barangay such as beauty pageants.

Do I recommend studying English: For me, I can recommend and advice some of friends to take AB-English for their future, it's because many opportunities await to them.

Why did I choose English: A course in preparation for law degree.

About my college education: AB English was an interesting course. It made me appreciate literature more - the works of the great writers and poets.

A student must have patience. He should also exhibit diligence and appreciation of great works.

My current job: I am a planning officer employed by the government. I do development planning.
I am also an English teacher of a Review center as my part time job.

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes. Specialization on language.

How long did it take to find a job: After 6 months.

Do I recommend studying English: Yes.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: AB English course is great for students who love the language and who appreciates great works of literature.

Why did I choose English: I have always been fascinated with languages, not just English. So I took up AB English and had 4 other languages incorporated into the course. My course also included Italian, German, French and Spanish.

About my college education: It was fun. Studying something I like and enjoy made learning fun. I won't say it was easy, especially learning the foreign languages that was part of our curriculum.

Communication skill is key to succeeding in this course. Since it deals with languages and how people interact using a spoken language it is essential that you can communicate well. Attitude I would say is the same for any course, dedication and discipline is a must.

My current job: I am a technical writer for a company based in Maryland USA

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes I did and I am using it extensively in my current job.
I am using English proficiency, ESL and Technical Writing.

How long did it take to find a job: A week or so.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: I would recommend this course to people who like personal interaction because it involves a lot of that. If you are interested in this course be prepared to spend hours on end doing manual and electronic research.

Why did I choose English: English was my favorite subject when I was a kid; I wanted to become a writer, poet and English teacher when I was in High school. Therefore, when I took my college level education, I decided to major in English.

About my college education: When you take English major you have to be ready in critical writing and poetry writing and article writing. It’s really fun playing Macbeth and study about Shakespeare’s works and writing. It’s not really boring, it’s interesting, maybe it depends on the teacher.

My current job: I am working as article writer, web content writer, call reviewer and online affiliate marketer. I am more on online stuff. But I love to work with my current client; I submitted some of my writing content to him and got paid from it.

Am I using what I learned in college: I used the skills in writing and reading, that’s why I master a lot the writing stuff and other related writing.

How long did it take to find a job: 1 year

Do I recommend studying English: For those who have a big plan to become a teacher, to become a writer and know how to become fluent in English, you can grab this course. Salary is high when you are a teacher. But you can enjoy your job.

Advice to people who are thinking of studying this course: Continue with your dreams, if you took Major in English proceed to master’s degree and teach. English major covers a lot of opportunity including online and offline. You can be a writer, cope editor and a teacher someday.

About my college education: I'm glad because I had experience all the things that the college student should experience. All the bloopers, learning, laughing, listening and cramming are those treasures that I can consider as a gift from God when I was studying.

My current job: Preschool teacher at Cotton Hills Christian Academy.

How long did it take to find a job: I think about three months. actually I was decided to take civil exam but my auntie who is a school owner absorbed me as a preschool teacher in her school.

Do I recommend studying English: AB in English is the arts of improving speech and writing in English so it is highly recommended.

About my college education: At first, speaking english fluently and accurately is the most challenging about this course. Next to it is public speaking. As day passes by difficulties turned to be your most enjoyable thing once you get the hang of it.

Basically, as long as your open minded and willing to learn another thrill of experiences. Certainly, you can pass all the task to be given by your professors.

My current job: I'm one of the CSR's of a certain company which is located in Texas.

Am I using what I learned in college: Not really, What I am using is business language and basic math.

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

Do I recommend studying English: Yes. The good thing is that if you get tired teaching students, then you have an option to work in some office.

About my college education: During my high school days. I haven't had confidence with my English. I always hid myself when It's English time. I always had a hard time understanding what I have red. And the worst was I didn't know how to write my own paragraph in English. That was my huge disorder. When I heard people talking in English It was like listening with the sound of a vehicle. Goshhhhh. I don't want to remember those days. Then my parents told me to take AB in English for somehow I can face my fears. I had a great time studying this course. I realized that English is a very interesting language that everybody should learn. My course was all about reading, speaking and writing. It was fun!

My current job: English Tutor.

How long did it take to find a job: After my graduation I decided to take master's degree. Until now I'm still studying but I'm an English tutor with Japanese students.

Do I recommend studying English: It's proven to me that AB in English is very wonderful course.

About my college education: I like it. My education is more on Literature, teaching and writing. It will teach you how the modern society created by people and and how to be an effective english teacher.

My current job: I'm a call center agent.

How long did it take to find a job: 2 weeks.

Do I recommend studying English: Yes but be sure they are interested with it.

About my college education: The course I took was actually not my original choice, Its so happened that I have no choice because our school offers 4 courses only. At first, it was difficult but later on I learned to embrace it and love it and it brings out my speaking prowess, so I did enjoy it. Being an English major student, you need to be adept in speaking English-the accent most importantly; and need to be good in grammar. These are the primordial skills but I advise that when you choose your course,it should be the course that you really love to do it because when you don`t have the passion to what you are doing, i don`t think you will succeed.

My current job: I am a sales supervisor right now. I've been a private tutor for ten years and a college instructor for a year before I decided to try to pursue a career in sales.

Am I using what I learned in college: Yes, I am applying what I`ve learned back in college- business communication

How long did it take to find a job: I graduated April 1999 then i got my first job June of 1999.

Do I recommend studying English: There`s lots of opportunities await you with my course. It`s very flexible, I mean you can have any kind of white collar jobs.