Defying Doubts, Making History for SLSU — Engr. Jason T. Bordas’ Road to Top 4 in November 2024 CELE

For many aspiring engineers, the journey toward the board exams is filled with challenges, uncertainties, and self-doubt. But for Engr. Jason Tahup Bordas, these hurdles became the very fuel that propelled him to success — landing Top 4 in the November and December 2024 Civil Engineers Licensure Examination.

A proud resident of Barangay Santo Niño, Bontoc, Southern Leyte, Jason graduated Cum Laude in Civil Engineering from Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) – Main Campus. But beyond his academic honors, what stands out most in his story is his unwavering determination and quiet resilience.

PERSONAL JOURNEY

Can you tell us a little about yourself and where you studied?

Hello. I am Engr. Jason T. Bordas, a resident of Barangay Santo Niño, Bontoc, Southern Leyte. I graduated as a Cum Laude in BS in Civil Engineering of Southern Leyte State University - Main Campus.

When did you start preparing for the board exams?

I started preparing for the board exam since I joined civil engineering quiz bees during my 3rd Year as a BSCE student until I graduated. I never won any of those quiz bees, but I made sure I learned how my fellow quizzers did it.

What motivated you to pursue civil engineering and to aim for the top?

I have been asked the same question ever since I was a freshman and my answer remained constant all throughout. And that is "to challenge myself and my capacity." Indeed, I was challenged but with determination and perseverance, I became victorious in the end.

As for aiming for the top spot in the board exam, I was motivated by three reasons:

1. I wanted to build a legacy and make a history for the Department of Civil Engineering of the Southern Leyte State University as the "1st Latin Honor and Topnotcher of the Department of Civil Engineering."

2. I wanted to prove to myself, as a quizzer, that I may not have won any quiz competitions, but I will make it to the top. And thank God, I did.

3. I wanted to give myself the comfort of having good career/job opportunities coming to me instead of tirelessly searching for job vacancies.

STUDY HABITS AND STRATEGIES

How did you structure your review (daily routine, schedule, or approach)?

Before the start of the face-to-face review in Cebu, I mastered a technique which I observed during every quiz bee I had participated — that is to solve a problem without any paper and pen. It is quite a challenging technique to master but it really saves you a lot of time during the actual board exam.

In addition, there was this topnotcher from the April 2024 CELE (I forgot the name) who shared his review routine/schedule in an FB page. I adapted his schedule since it fits perfectly to my preference. However, I didn't follow this schedule all throughout the review season because I followed the mentorship of Engr. Timbal (Top 3 April 2024 CELE) three months into the review.

Lastly, As the famous saying from Confucius goes, "If you're always the smartest person in the room, then you are in the wrong room." One approach I did during my review was that I immersed myself with other aspiring topnotchers by brainstorming about the weekly assessments with them every weekend. I learned a lot of problem-solving techniques/approach from them which I may not have known if I didn't interact with them. Their confidence and determination to top the board exam were also contagious and inspired me to be the best version of myself.

What review materials or techniques worked best for you?

Most of my review materials were from my review center, GERTC, which really helped me understood basic concept when I was still an undergraduate student.

The technique that also worked best for me was to study the trend of the board exam. This helped me not to overload my brain with a lot of concepts that may not be useful during the actual board exam, especially in the MSTC subject. As a testimony myself, you really don't need to be a mathwizard to top the board exam. Study smarter kumbaga. 😉

How did you handle subjects or topics you found difficult?

I always allot a certain time to focus on them. I don't stop until I master the concepts and find a pattern on how to solve problems related to such topics.

MINDSET AND CHALLENGES

What were the biggest challenges you faced during your review journey?

The biggest challenges I faced during my review journey were financial problems and self-doubt.

How did you stay motivated and focused despite burnout, pressure, or self-doubt?

As someone who has been a consistent academic achiever, I can't help but think of everyone's expectations towards me. This made me think of situations where everyone gets disappointed if I didn't top or even fail the board exam. However, when I consulted my close friends and loved ones about this, they reassured me that they will still be proud of me whatever result may come out. And so, I kept telling myself, that everything I do is for my own good and for those who believed in me.

In addition, I also wanted to take 2 review seasons because I wasn't sure if I could secure a top spot in the board exam if I only reviewed once. However, with limited funds I was left with no other choice but to give my everything in my first and last shot of topping the CELE. Although there was no other choice, this decision is also what my gut feeling trying to tell me. Thus, I did my best and kept showing up despite the uncertainties.

ADVICE TO FUTURE TAKERS

What are your top 3 review tips for future board exam takers?

1. Know yourself.

Recognize your strengths and weaknesses. By understanding where you excel and where you need to improve, you can focus your energy wisely and prepare more effectively for the board exam. Also, keep in mind that progress, no matter how small, is still progress. Don't stress yourself with the guilt of not studying enough. Keep building those small wins until they accumulate to your ultimate goal.

2. Surround yourself with the right people.

Choose companions who inspire, support, and uplift you. The right environment helps you stay motivated, disciplined, and positive throughout the journey.

3. Always pray to God.

Acknowledge that true success comes from Him. Prayer gives you peace, clarity, and strength, reminding you that your efforts are guided by faith and purpose. Prior to taking every review assessment and the actual board exam, I always recite this prayer:

"Lord, I'm not asking You to make the exam easy for me but I pray that no matter how difficult it'll be, you’ll give me the knowledge and presence of mind to get through it."

What mindset should future engineers have as they prepare for the board exam?

Libre lang mangarap, so sagarin mo na. It's either magta-top or pass the board exam. Claim it, believe it, and most importantly, work hard for it.

Any final message to inspire future civil engineers?

No matter the doubts or fears you may feel, remember that your journey is yours alone. Do not be weighed down by the opinions or expectations of others. Instead, focus on your own growth and commit to becoming the best version of yourself each day.