If there is one unforgettable thing that the pandemic brought, it is the implementation of online classes to ensure the continuation of education and graduation.
Just like the inspiring story of Engr. Francis Anastacio Tevar, who passed the November 2024 Civil Engineering Licensure Examination (CELE). After enduring online classes under a tree, he never imagined that he would complete his studies and become a licensed civil engineer.
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| Photo courtesy: Facebook/Francis Tevar |
In his Facebook post, Engr. Francis, a graduate of National University-Manila, shared his journey. He recalled how there was a misconception that studying became easier because it was online, but for him, that was not the case.
“Kasagsagan ng pandemya, napakahirap makasagap ng internet/data sa amin kahit pagdadownload lng ng 50+MB na file aabutin ka ng syamsyam.”
“For almost 2 years, sa isang water tank tower sa ilalim ng puno ng santol ang naging classroom ko kahit pa umuulan, everyday aakyat at bababa, pati sa bubong ng bahay napapadpad ako para lang makasabay sa online class, minsan nahihiya ako mag opencam kasi background ko ay sanga at dahon ng santol HAHAHAHA (di uso ang change bg [background] kasi naka cp lng).”
“Panahong nahihirapan ako ng sobra tipong gusto ko muna sana magstop pero ayoko din kasi maeextend ung gastos kapag nagstop ako. Minsan wala kang maintindihan, hindi ka makasabay at matutrauma ka nalng sa sound ng MS Teams na palaging nagrereconnect,” he said.
After overcoming issues with his internet connection, he faced even greater challenges—difficult subjects that required a physical setup to be properly learned.
On the other hand, Engr. Francis remains grateful for those experiences, as they made him even stronger. After graduating, he took a break before diving into review sessions and eventually taking the exam.
What’s next for him?
“Currently po, nasa job hunt phase pa po and may mga interview na rin and waiting sa next hiring process ng mga company,” he said in an interview with The Summit Express.
Congratulations, Engr. Francis! Way to go!
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
