Pursuing Excellence Over Titles: How Engr. Miguel Lorenzo C. Rubia Nearly Failed Reinforced Concrete Design in College but Turned It Into His Strength to Secure Top 7 in the April 2025 CELE
For Engr. Miguel Lorenzo C. Rubia, becoming a licensed civil engineer was always the ultimate goal. A Cum Laude graduate of Mapúa University and now 7th placer in the April 2025 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination, he currently works as a Construction Methods Engineer at TTM-JV, contributing to the Metro Manila Subway Project.
ENGR. MIGUEL LORENZO C. RUBIA
7th Place, April 2025 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination
Cum Laude, Mapua University
Construction Methods Engineer, TTM-JV
For Engr. Miguel Lorenzo C. Rubia, becoming a licensed civil engineer was always the ultimate goal. A Cum Laude graduate of Mapúa University and now 7th placer in the April 2025 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination, he currently works as a Construction Methods Engineer at TTM-JV, contributing to the Metro Manila Subway Project.
Born and raised in Cebu, Engr. Rubia chose to study in Manila to step out of his comfort zone and grow in independence. His fascination with roads, bridges, and skyscrapers fueled his passion for civil engineering. Unlike many, he did not pressure himself to be a topnotcher—he simply wanted to do his best and be proud of the outcome.
His review routine balanced structure and rest: classes in the morning, problem-solving in the afternoon, and simulations of exam conditions at night. For difficult subjects, he started with the basics and gradually worked toward more complex problems. What once was his weakness, Reinforced Concrete Design, eventually became one of his strengths.
His biggest challenge was maintaining discipline, but he overcame it by focusing on his goal and leaning on supportive friends. Looking back, he reminds future exam takers to know themselves, avoid unnecessary pressure, and enjoy the process. Guided by a mantra from the film 3 Idiots, he believes: “Don’t chase success. Pursue excellence, and success will follow.”
To aspiring engineers, his message is simple yet powerful: “Do your best. Stay consistent. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You got this, future engineer!”
Personal Journey
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and where you studied?
I am Miguel Lorenzo C. Rubia, a registered civil engineer and the 7th placer of the April 2025 CELE. I was born and raised in Cebu, but I decided to pursue my college education at Mapua University in Manila. I did this to try and step out of my comfort zone and practice independence. I am currently a Construction Methods Engineer under the TTM-JV, working on the Metro Manila Subway Project.
2. When did you start preparing for the board exams?
I started formally preparing for the board exam on November 2024.
3. What motivated you to pursue civil engineering and to aim for the top?
Seeing buildings always fascinated me, whether they be roads, bridges, or skyscrapers. I saw how they contributed to the people’s daily lives, and I wanted to take part in developing that, and so I decided to pursue civil engineering.
To be quite frank, aiming for the top was not my ultimate goal. To me, the most important achievement in this journey would be having become a licensed civil engineer. My parents also never pressured me into becoming a topnotcher or to achieve something extraordinary, and so I went into my review with the mindset that I will try my best, but it would not be the end of the world if I cannot get a top spot. I simply wanted to be proud of my result, and so I put in my best effort.
Study Habits and Strategies
1. How did you structure your review (daily routine, schedule, or approach)?
Although my routine was not always consistent and rigid, a typical day would start with review class in the morning. When I get home in the afternoon, I would take a little rest before answering the practice problems given earlier based on what was discussed. At night, I would look for extra problems on a completely different topic. I also made sure not to study late into the night, so usually by 9 pm, I have already winded down.
2. What review materials or techniques worked best for you?
The review materials that I used mostly came from my review classes. I also made use of books like the CE Reference. A technique that I used, especially around 1-2 months before the board exam, was simulating an exam setting. I printed a sample answer sheet and gave myself 3 hours to finish an exam from the CE Reference. I would then check my answers after.
3. How did you handle subjects or topics you found difficult?
For topics I found difficult, I found that it helped to start at the very basics. I would start by understanding the concepts, then look for practice problems with very easy questions on a topic that I found difficult. Once I gained confidence, I would then move on to more difficult questions on those topics.
Mindset and Challenges
1. What were the biggest challenges you faced during your review journey?
I think that one of the biggest challenges I faced during my review would be staying disciplined. I wouldn’t say that I am the most hardworking student, and I would often get lazy.
2. How did you stay motivated and focused despite burnout, pressure, or self-doubt?
I always reminded myself of the goal to be a licensed civil engineer. I also made sure to take some time to rest and enjoy. I also had friends who challenged me and had my back to support me.
3. Did you ever experience setbacks or low points? How did you bounce back?
Perhaps the biggest setback I had during my journey towards being a civil engineer was when I got a 3.0 in Reinforced Concrete Design. I was close to repeating the subject. Going into our Correlation class, I made sure to put in extra effort into RCD so that I would not have a problem. Eventually, the subject became one of the easier topics in PSAD.
Advice to Future Takers
1. What are your top 3 review tips for future board exam takers?
First would be to know yourself. You might hear others and their review techniques and schedules, but ultimately, only you can decide what the best technique is for yourself. Second is not to feel too pressured. Yes, it is easier said than done, but pressure puts extra unnecessary weight on your shoulders. It is normal to be nervous, but you have to trust in your ability. Lastly, enjoy the process. We are all working towards a dream, and the journey should be just as fulfilling as the end goal.
2. What mindset should future engineers have as they prepare for the board exam?
A mantra that I always kept in mind came from the movie “3 Idiots”, saying, “Don’t chase success. Pursue excellence, and success will follow.” Do not be obsessed with titles or achievements. Good work will speak for itself, and success will follow.
3. Any final message to inspire future civil engineers?
Do your best. Stay consistent. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You got this, future engineer!