top 9 in the Social Work licensure exams

A Call for Service

When asked why she wanted to be a Social Worker, Jonna Mae said that she was inspired by her brother who was also a Registered Social Worker,

“Growing up, I have seen how he has grown in this profession and I witnessed that this can give us a great sense of fulfillment and I wanted to be just like him. When I was in college, I gained a good grasp of the crucial role of social workers in our society. I have learned that there will always be people, anywhere, anytime who are in need of help.”

She continued by saying that she wanted to assist people to improve their standard of living so they could someday support themselves and give back to the community. Jonna Mae wanted to utilize her knowledge and abilities to help those in need, now that she’s certified as a Social Worker, and be a part of the positive change affecting people’s lives and the society.

Life sometimes leads us down a different route than we planned, but it will always lead us in the direction that is meant for us. Just like in the fate of Jonna Mae, whose first choice in the BU College Entrance Test (BUCET) was BS Accountancy but did not make it to the quota. Her options at that time were to pursue this program in a private institution or try her luck in BS Social Work at BUTC. She chose the latter.

“It was one of the major decisions that I have made in my life. I chose BS Social Work because I also considered the financial capacity of my family. Social Work may not be my first choice but I now believe that I am destined to be in this path.”

As the youngest of Mr. Joel and Mrs. Herminia Bogñalbal, Jonna Mae is the princess of her four older brothers. Taking BS Accountancy in BU College of Business, Economics, and Management (CBEM) or in a private institution would not only sacrifice her time away from her family, but also entail expenses. Unlike studying in BUTC that is near her hometown while pursuing a profession where she soon found her purpose.

“To those students who feel like they are lost in their academic journey or those who feel like their plans are not going in the direction that they want, have faith that God has better things in store for you.”

When Jonna Mae was a student, she struggled with low self-esteem and was anxious in facing large crowds. But because her future profession practices learning opportunities necessary for one to become a social worker, it gave her confidence where she also realized her skills beyond the confines of the classroom.

“It is definitely not a smooth sailing journey, but you need to have faith in yourself as well and be reminded that life will not be always in our favor and that’s our reality. Instead of completely losing grip of our dreams and aspirations in life, we have to give our best shot in all things and explore other paths because this may lead us to that one path which is truly destined for us.”

Meanwhile, the BU College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP) was also declared the 2nd top performing school, achieving a 99.05% overall passing rate with 104 passers, BUTC with 25; besting the 62.75% national passing rate.

| by Arnold C. Noda