A couple from Rizal Technological University (RTU), who also graduated cum laude, made it to the 1st and 6th spots of the February 2023 Mechanical Engineers Licensure Examination.
Top-notcher Reynell Villanueva Sanchez, who garnered a 94.90 percent rating, said in a Manila Bulletin interview that having a “mutual goal” helped him and his girlfriend, Eunice Durango Santiago who earned a 93.25 percent score, overcome their hardships during their review months.
Reynell Villanueva Sanchez, a Department of Science and Technology scholar, and Eunice Durango Santiago both graduated cum laude in Rizal Technological University class of 2022. **(Photo courtesy of Reynell V. Sanchez)**
“The good thing is that we have a mutual goal we want to set for ourselves, and that goal became our top priority. During the review, we often assess ourselves on those topics we find difficult, especially every time the weekly exam results come out. Also, we look at each other’s ways of solving problems so we can choose an easier way to answer it,” he said.
“It is also great that we reviewed together because when the times come that we get distracted, lazy, or fed up, the other is there to motivate and remind us of our goals,” he added.
Sanchez admitted that they were actually hoping to top the exam but then felt doubtful if they would make it after feeling like they answered many questions incorrectly.
However, to their relief, both he and Santiago landed in the top 10.
“We both thrived hard to top the board exam, and it was very fulfilling that we both got a spot in the top 10. All our struggles and hardships throughout that preparation have finally paid off,” he said.
A proud and supportive boyfriend
Sanchez also shared how his lover struggled yet remained committed to her dream of becoming a licensed mechanical engineer.
“For 6 months we did our best, we witness each others hardships, struggles, sleepless nights and determination, it was all fulfilling. There were maybe times that we were tired, sick and sometimes that we want to give up. But with each other we surpass those, especially for me, you became my strength to work hard more,” he said in a Facebook post.
Photo courtesy of Professional Regulation Commission
Santiago, in a separate post, expressed her appreciation for him.
“I just want you to know how thankful I am to you, for always being there for me, for always calming me down, and for always complimenting me that I deserve the Title I have.
“So much appreciation to you my love, especially for your constant Care, Understanding, and Patience toward me. I’m so proud of you, I Love you. From Cum Laude to Topnotchers,” she said.
The top-notcher had a piece of advice for couples who also aspire to pass their licensure exams.
“Mind over matter; if you set your mind to something and dedicatedly do your best to achieve that something, there’s nothing impossible.
“And for those couples like us who will also review for a board exam or even academically, never get shy to share your difficulties with your partner and always compliment each other for motivation,” he said.
Also, compiling review materials, practicing problem-solving techniques, and choosing the right review center will greatly help them in their review journey, he added.
Last March 2, the Professional Regulation Commission announced that 3,774 out of 6,070 successfully passed the Mechanical Engineers Licensure Exam given by the Board of Mechanical Engineering in the National Capital Region, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Koronadal, Legazpi, Lucena, Pampanga, Rosales, Tacloban, and Zamboanga.