The Innovator Special Edition by FEU Tech

hired before graduation certifications find a you career before can get a big industry job finishing college

hired before graduation certifications find a career before can get you a big industry job finishing college

feu TECH scholars

feu-eac scholars AND HOW THEY BECAME SUCCESSFUL

AND HOW THEY BECAME SUCCESSFUL

TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION EDUCATION BIGGER. Better. BoldER. BIGGER. BETTER. BOLDER.

THE

EDITORIAL BOARD Angela Frances A. Nilo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mark Angelo T. Sadorra ASSOCIATE EDITOR

John Mark C. Sangalang NEWS AND SPORTS EDITOR

Elaine Anne D. Mercado

LITERARY AND FEATURES EDITOR

Nelson G. Villamayor HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

John Michael A. Tubera HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

Abraham B. Felix

HEAD GRAPHIC ARTIST

Klaus Kirsten T. Bautista MOTION GRAPHICS EDITOR

Carla Denise C. Estrella GRAPHIC/LAYOUT ARTIST

Paul Y. Pak

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/ADVISER

ABOUT THE COVER Design: Sten Bautista, 3rd year BS ITDA

EDITOR’S NOTE My own college experience can best be characterized as ‘on my own’: I had to fill out an application and pay for it on my own—which was a little expensive. I had to find a way to cover tuition on my own—which was really expensive. I had to find scholarships and grants on my own—which were very small. I had to go to companies and find an internship on my own—which was REALLY hard. And, finally, once I had finished every requirement on my own and was ready to graduate on my own, I also had to find a job on my own—which wasn’t easy. Not even a little. In short, I didn’t get a whole lot of help from my own alma mater (which means, ironically, “nourishing mother,” in Latin), and, despite its reputation and high tuition, no one really seemed to care about me. This was especially true after I had graduated. So, when I eventually began working for FEU Tech, I assumed it was the same for our students: they were more or less on their own, too. It didn’t take long for me to realize that I was quite mistaken. FEU Tech actively works to ensure that you don’t have to do it all on your own. We lay at your feet an array of opportunities to make your life a success. All you need to do is reach out and take them. Is applying to college expensive? Our application and entrance exam is free. Need financial support? We help you find scholarships. Need an internship? We get you connected with a network of more than 574 Industry Partners (it’ll be more than 600 by the end of 2013). Need a job? We do our best to get you one, even before you graduate. We made this special edition of The Innovator to show everyone exactly how much FEU Tech is willing to be a true alma mater, a true source of nourishment for the minds, hearts, spirits, and goals of each young person under its care. We want you to know that a true alma mater understands that “no man is an island,” and that no one should be on his own, especially when he belongs to a community, especially when that community is ours. If you belong with us, you’ll always belong with us. Thank you, and please enjoy this special edition of The Innovator. Paul Y. Pak Director of Communications

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

MY STUDY ABROAD:

MIGGY & MARLON

TAKE TAIWAN THE INNOVATOR

CONTENTS SPECIAL EDITION

4 INSIDE INDUSTRY

REAL WORLD POWER

HOW INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS AND INTERNSHIPS BENEFIT YOU

14 grand expansion

feu TECH

FUSION

INSIDE INDUSTRY 6 OPTIONS FOR THE FUTURE

7 THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: SMART & GLOBE CONNECT iTAMARAWS

HIRED BEFORE GRADUATION

11 NEVER A RAINY DAY FOR RAINIER

MY INTERNSHIP

12 MINI-BOSS JOANAH 13 UNIOIL PRAISES FEU-EAC INTERNS

FEU EAST ASIA SCHOLAR

16 The Ivy League 18 Alexander the Great 20 Lester is Legend

PROJECT-BASED LEARNING

26 FEU TECH Innovates Security & Safety 24 FEU TECH Innovates COMPUTER SOFTWARE AND MOBILE APPLICATIONS CERTIFIED SUCCESS

21 HOW CERTIFICATIONS CAN IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES IN THE INDUSTRY THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

de ry i s in ust ind

Real World Power HOW INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS AND INTERNSHIPS BENEFIT YOU

Did you know that FEU Tech has a total of 574 Industry Partners? These partners include multinational companies like IBM, SM, Hewlett-Packard, JP Morgan Chase & Co.—the list goes on and on. But, what exactly is an Industry Partner, and how does having so many of them benefit our students? To find out The Innovator sat down with Jarvis C. Muyargis, Senior Director of Administration, and former director of The Industry-Academe Linkage, Alumni, and Placement Office (or IALAP for short).

WORDS: Edgar Allan Cruz INTERVIEW: Edgar Allan Cruz PHOTO: KIM MAGPANTAY

Industry “574Partners ... ...we currently have

we’ll likely have more than 600

”

by the end of the year.

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

First of all, can you explain to our readers what an Industry Partner actually is?

“Simply put, having more IPs give students more real world power. Every student is 100% guaranteed to get an internship, or an OJT— “An Industry Partner is essentially any which, you know, we require them to do in bonafide company or organization that the their fourth year.They get lots of job training College collaborates with. Our collaboraand real world experience from some of the tion can include student internships, faculty biggest companies in the world. immersion, scholarship grants, curriculum development, community involvement “Also, having more IPs means a better projects, seminars and trainings, recruitment curriculum development program for the activities, and research development.” College. One of our biggest goals is to make our curriculum Industry relevant—collaborating The College has 574 Industry Partners, with our IPs helps us fine-tune what we teach. correct? Having more IPs gives us a bigger ‘insider’ perspective of the needs of the Industry, and, as a “Yes, we currently have 574 Industry result, what the students end up learning is exactly Partners—by my estimate, we’ll likely have what they’ll face once they finish college and more than 600 by the end of the school year. enter the Industry for themselves—they’ll know Companies come to us for partnerships. They what to do and how to do it. look for us. Our students are in demand.” Having more IPs also means that we are Why is having so many Industry Partners associated with a wider variety of companies— good for the students? you know, all types, anything from the small startups to the mega corporations. This way, our “Well, that’s a good question but also one students can have direct and personal experience that has a long answer,” Mr. Muyargas said, with all forms of business types and models. laughing. “This might take some time, so bear Say, for example, a student wants to start their with me! own business. Well, then, we get him or her

“They get lots of

more Industry partners give students more real power.

job training and real world experience.

”

connected with a now successful business that had first started off small. That student gets to learn what that company did, and how they did it, to become successful. On the other hand, if a student wants to work for one of the biggest tech companies around, like IBM, well, he can get his chance. We’ll help him get that internship there, and then maybe even employment before graduation. “In short, it is all about opportunity.” Wow. It really seems like having a lot of Industry Partners is important. “It really is. That’s one of the reasons why we have a big advantage over a lot of other tech schools. We have way more IPs. “And, also, since not every company is the same—you know, one company might have certain requirements that another doesn’t—we’ll know that, and we can pass that information to our students. So, if they’re targeting to work for a certain company, in a particular field, they’ll know what they’ll need and have a better chance of getting hired there.” In what other ways is the FEU Tech Internship and OJT program different from that of other colleges? “Aside from having the opportunity to work with big companies, the College gives students more on-the-job training—at most eight months. That’s more than what any other school will give them.”

“

Having more IPs gives us

”

The IALAP Team with Senior Director for Administration Jarvis Muyargas

Is a longer internship better? “Absolutely. The more real world experience a student can get, the better. Not only do companies want them more because of their experience, but they’re also better at their jobs. We give them more real world power, as well as the opportunity to get hired.”

“

...the College gives students more

on-the-job training— nearly eight Earlier, you mentioned faculty immersion. What’s that? months. That’s more than “It’s similar to our student internship program. Faculty Immersion is placing full-time any other faculty into an Industry setting. We want our faculty members to have as much experience school. in the Industry as possible. They take their experiences home, and look at our curriculum, and help change it. Faculty Immersion is another way for them to learn what to teach, and make sure what they teach will make our students Industry ready.” Mr. Muyargas has definitely convinced us of the ‘real world power’ of Industry Partnerships. Still, we suggest that you find out more about them on your own. Feel free to contact the current IALAP Director, Ms. Lovella Gonzales, at linkage@feueastasia.edu.ph, via her Industry Linkage team. Discover the power for yourself! ◊

”

a bigger ‘insider’ perspective of the Industry. THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

de ry i s in ust ind

FOR THE

FUTURE BY kamille rose gadon

EU Tech, in coordination with FEU Diliman, organized Options 2013, its biggest job fair of the school year. This event, subtitled “Where Industry Meets Academe,” was held on the 9th floor of the FEU Technology Building, on March 15. Options 2013 hosted over 30 companies from all parts of the Industry, and more than 800 FEU Tech and FEU Diliman students were in attendance. Students were encouraged to “dress for success” and submit their resumes and applications to recruiters. Many of these recruiters provided on-thespot job interviews, product samples, SIM cards, and free access to photobooths. The Industry-Academe Linkage, Alumni, and Placement (IALAP) Office is credited for organizing and executing this event. Their goal was to provide students with a significant and easy way to find opportunities for meaningful, prosperous careers. “We only invited very specific companies from the Engineering and IT industries. In this way, we could ensure a higher level of career matching. Not only did we want the best companies, but we also wanted the best

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

fitting companies for our students, and we wanted to show these companies that our students would be excellent at fitting into their corporate dynamics,” said Ms. Lovella Gonzales, Director of IALAP. This was not the first time at an FEU Tech job fair event for many of these companies “We already know that FEU Tech students become good quality employees. That’s why we always make sure that we participate in their job fair every year,” said Scania Wong of Trendmicro Philippines, Inc., a branch of the Taiwanese security software company. Event sponsors included Entertainment Gateway Group (EGG), Globe Telecom, Stellar BPO, Sun Cellular, Sykes Asia, Inc., and Universal Robina Corporation, to name a few. School officials anticipate that upcoming versions of Options will be bigger and better with the inclusion of the new FEU Tech Building.

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: SMART & GLOBE CONNECT iTAMARAWS T o strengthen its already close-knit community, FEU Tech’s office of IALAP (Industry-Academe Linkage, Alumni, and Placement) has collaborated with Industry partners, Smart Communications, Inc. and Globe Telecom, to offer customized FEU Tech SIM cards.

BY kamille rose gadon

These SIM cards help digitally enhance the iTamaraw experience by allowing users to have direct communication with College authorities, in real time. Special call rates and text promos are also exclusive to all FEU Tech SIM card users. Smart Communications, Inc. was the first to launch its customized FEU Tech SIM; Globe Telecom followed in suit. Both companies have provided school administrators access to web-based services (SMART’s InfoBoard and Globe’s Broadcast Text) through which they can broadcast general information, announcements, and user-specific data to all subscribers, free of charge. Both companies have plans to introduce new offers and promos to the FEU Tech community in the coming months. They also plan to improve their facilities to enhance each iTamaraw’s experience using their services and keep our community closer than ever before. ◊ THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

dy u t s d my broa

mIGGY and marlon

take TAIWAN BY spencer milton maranang-co photos: mark leocis o. miguel and marlon d. quijano

Photos: Mark Leocis O. Miguel and Marlon D. Quijano

When FEU Tech students Mark Leocis O. Miguel and Marlon D. Quijano came back from their Study Abroad at National Sun Yat-sen University in Taiwan, not only did they bring great stories to tell, but they also brought Taiwan shaved into the sides of their heads. Keep reading to find out what that means.

“

i looked at who i was, where i came from, and who i wanted to become.

It was my own journey of

self-discovery. 8

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

”

n early 2013, Mark “Miggy” O. Miguel and Marlon D. Quijano, two of the College’s Electronics Engineering students, spent four months studying at National Sun Yat-sen University, in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, under the College’s Study Abroad Program. Miggy is 21 years old. He describes himself as an adventurous guy. He loves tourist spots and traveling. For Miggy, the experience of studying abroad was life changing: “I was in a different world. It really changed my perspective on life. I saw so many things, and learned so many things. It was all so amazing. And, because I was in such a different culture from my own, I really got to look at myself in a deeper way. I looked at who I was, where I came from, and who I wanted to become. It was my own journey of self-discovery.”

And sometimes the journey was about literal discovery, too: “We [he and Marlon] would get lost all the time because we weren’t used to getting around yet. But people were very nice, and helped us find our way. Our guardian would get mad us, though, for getting lost so often!” he says, jokingly. Their guardian, Peithe Salva, is an FEU faculty member who’s currently in Taiwan, finishing his Ph.D. He acts as a conduit between the College and National Sun Yat-sen, and helps take care of our study abroad students. “We really owe him a lot,” said Miggy. “Yeah, we’re really grateful for Peithe’s help and guidance,” Marlon confirmed. Marlon is 20 years old. He describes himself as fearless, and is willing to try almost anything. For Marlon, the trip was a huge leap forward in his life, too:

“

we were given a chance to understand our own management skills and get more training. we met people from France, Singapore, the Czech Republic, Canada, Korea—

our network of friends and connections really expanded.

”

“I was able to make friends from other nationalities. You know, make international connections. I also experienced authentic Taiwanese culture—it really changed me. My habits changed. I feel like a different person, with a different outlook on life and the world.” Aside from Electronics Engineering courses, Miggy and Marlon were given the opportunity to take management courses while at Sun Yat-sen—the university’s management program is ranked 1st in the southern part of Taiwan, and 3rd overall in the country. They took three courses: Cross Cultural Leadership and Communication, Leadership and Decision Making, Organization Theory and Behavior. “The classes were diverse, and we were able to mingle with different cultures. We were given a chance to understand our own management skills and get more training. We met people from France, Singapore, the Czech Republic, Canada, Korea—our network of friends and connections really expanded,” said Marlon.

turn to next page

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

““

We got to be speakers at this big got to be speakers at this big conference. conference. Wewespoke about cultural differences between Philippines and Taiwan... we spoketheabout our cultural differences between the philippineswas and taiwan. we talked about learning and Everyone amazed at our speaking English. eVERYONE WAS AMAZED AT OUR COMMUcommunication skills. NICATION SKILLS. WE WERE VERY PROUD!

””

One of the highlights of their experiences, according to both Miggy and Marlon, was getting the chance to be speakers at a seminar on the importance of the English Language in a crosscultural world, held at Cheng Shiu University, one of Taiwan’s most prestigious universities. The seminar’s facilitator was their guardian Peithe Salva. “We got to be speakers at this big conference. We spoke about cultural differences between the Philippines and Taiwan. We talked about learning and speaking English. Everyone was amazed at our communication skills. We were very proud!” said Miggy. When asked about any problems or complications resulting from the political conflicts between Taiwan and the Philippines, both Miggy and Marlon shrugged them off. “No one even really mentioned anything. Everyone was fine, and we really didn’t have any problems getting along.” Finally, when asked if the two had anything left to add, they both said that they regret changing their hairstyles. We must admit, the Innovator staff couldn’t help but stare a little bit. “In Taiwan, it’s kind of a trend to get designs shaved into the sides of your head. Our Taiwanese friends convinced us to do it. It was fine while we were there, I guess, but I’m going to get a new haircut as soon as I can!” Miggy said, laughing. Miggy and Marlon are just two of the many FEU Tech students who have gone abroad and have had life-changing experiences. You can be just like them! ◊

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

graired be dua for tion e

never a rainy day for

rainier

WORDS AND INTERVIEW BY MARK ANGELO SADORRA When Rainier Dan E. Maderazo joined FEU Tech as an academic scholar, he was determined to become an IT professional. And, thanks to his hard work and training, he made his goal a reality—without having to job hunt. Read more about how the College helped Rainier get a job at Hewlett Packard before he graduated. How did you get interested in IT? “When I was in elementary school, I was already passionate about C++ [computer programming language]. I was so moved when I saw a simple program ‘run,’ and I was fascinated by the craft. In high school, my passion became broader, but, at the same time, more focused. My passion really grew.” Why did you pursue IT with FEU Tech? “A friend of mine and I were at the College together to inquire about courses. We saw how great the facilities were. We also met some really welcoming people. But most of all, the academic community was very inviting. The College had so many credentials, and I felt that I could become an IT professional there.” How did you get your job at Hewlett Packard? “The College helped me get an internship at Gurango Software [one of the College’s industry partners]. It was there that I became further adapted to the corporate world. They really groomed me for the industry. They even sent me out as a company representative to talk with clients. When my internship was nearly over, and my graduation was coming up soon, I applied at HP. They hired me and was willing to train me further.” How did FEU Tech help you prepare for the industry? “I think I’d be a lesser person now if I had not pursued my dream to become an IT professional. FEU Tech granted my dream. They taught me to stand tall. They showed me how to understand different people and how to make good relationships. And, most of all, they gave me the skills and first-hand information that I needed to know before joining the Industry—the needto-know-things before joining the workforce.”

Rainier Dan E. Maderazo (left) and Candy Daniel, both FEU Tech Alumni who were hired before graduating.

What do you enjoy most about your career? The very job that I have is itself a blessing and is very enjoyable. It’s because I followed my own chosen path. Life goes easy if we all follow our own choices. There’s no such thing as a ‘burden’ or a ‘work load’ if you’re passionate about what you do.” What does ‘success’ mean to you? “Others may say that success is measured by financial gain, or prominence in society, or an impressive track record. Maybe there’s a degree of truth in that, but I believe that no one can define his own success better than himself. To me, success is a matter of how far someone has gone from where he started. How far he’s gone from point A to point B. Where did that person finally land? Is he done traveling?” You can be like Rainier and travel your own path toward success. FEU Tech is willing to help. And, with hard work and passion, you may begin a successful career even before you graduate. ◊

“

I THINK I’D BE A LESSER PERSON NOW IF I HAD NOT PURSUED MY DREAM TO BECOME AN IT PROFESSIONAL.

FEU TECH GRANTED MY DREAM.

”

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

ip h s rn e t in my

MINI-BOSS JOANAH

20-year-old FEU Tech ECE student Joanah May Lambino has just finished her threemonth internship at SM Retail Inc., where she was given the responsibility to oversee big company projects. The Innovator sat down with her to get all the details of her experience in the Real World as a “mini-boss.” Here’s what she had to say:

“

The College does a lot to help you find the right internship.

What was your position at SM? “My official title was Junior Network Project Manager.” Wow! That sounds impressive. What did you do as a Junior Network Project Manager? “It was really cool,” she said, laughing. “I got to be a mini-boss! I was assigned to monitor equipment and renovations, oversee projects for retail affiliates, for new malls, for security—I helped plan and organize major projects for the company.” What was the experience like?

Photo: Kim Magpantay

“

I helped plan and organize

major projects for the company.

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

”

“Honestly, at first, I thought it was going to be really hard. But I got into the groove, and I began to enjoy every moment of it. It was like a real job—a really great real job. I was assigned to Mall of Asia, and my schedule was 9 am to 7 pm, Monday through Friday. My supervisor treated me well and was very friendly—he was more like a mentor. He taught me the ins and outs of SM. I was also able to make new friends, gain valuable connections, learn new things—I learned how to be a boss.”

”

Was it hard for you to get your internship at SM?

“Not really. The College does a lot to help you find the right internship. For me, even though my internship wasn’t directly related to my program, I still got to learn about how to be in management, which is pretty much my goal. I want to be a boss, so this internship was perfect for me.”

Do you have any advice for students starting their internships soon? “Don’t be afraid to grab any opportunity that comes. Act like a professional. Don’t take criticisms personally, but take them as lessons. When you get a job in the future, you’ll be able to apply what you learn more easily.” ◊

“BOSS.

I LEARNED HOW TO BE A

”

PRAISES

FEU TECH

INTERNS

WORDS: ANGELA FRANCES NILO and FRANCIS FITZGERALD INTAL INTERVIEW: ANGELA FRANCES NILO PHOTOS: ABRAHAM FELIX

Unioil, one of FEU Tech’s Industry Partners, has and is currently offering internships to our student body, and the company has a lot of praise for the iTamaraws they recruit. The Innovator got a chance to interview Human Resources Officer David Persival Flores to find out more details about internships and on-the-job training in the real world. How do you choose your ideal candidates for internship positions? “There are two major factors. The first is that they see if the candidate can ‘culturally’ fit in. This means that he/ she not only must have a skill set, but he/she must also fit in with the culture of the different departments in Unioil. The second factor is that our interns must be ready and willing to learn. They have to be open to new information.” How does the company train its interns for a career? “I think that they get to be exposed to what it’s really like in the corporate world. They get to experience everything, and they get to develop the kind of attitude right for a corporate environment. We never treat them as interns. We treat them like real employees.”

“ ”

I REALLY COMMEND THEM. THEY’RE VERY

PROFESSIONAL.

THEY HAVE THE NECESSARY SKILLS. Unioil Human Resources Officer David Persival Flores

What does your company hope to achieve from its internship program. “This is not the usual on-the-job training where students are just asked to do menial tasks, like photocopy things. When we say ‘on-the-job’ training, we really mean ‘on-the-job’ training. They’ll also find out whether this kind of work is right for them.” What can you say about interns from FEU Tech? “I really commend them. They’re very professional. They already have the necessary skills. They have the kind of personality that we really want to have in an office. Very magaling! Just plug-and-play.” The Innovator didn’t stop there. We took some time to see what interns do at Unioil. It turns out that it really is like having a real world job. The interns engage in marketing by developing AVPs, working with a hired production team, enhancing the company’s website, and creating collaterals, banners, and flyers. Yeah, it’s definitely no ‘get coffee’ or ‘make photocopies’ kind of on-the-job-training you find elsewhere. The same is true for most of the experiences our students have had with their internships. They really do work in the real world! ◊

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

H TECSION FU

TECH FUSION:

feu east asia & feu tech

CREATE ALLIANCE F

EU – East Asia College, ever aware of the rapid evolution of technology and the growing demand for technology professionals, has decided to undergo a major alliance (dubbed “Tech Fusion”) with FEU Institute of Technology. Because of this monumental alliance of two powerhouse technology schools, FEU – East Asia College has decided to adopt the name FEU Institute of Technology. Both the alliance and name change will further strengthen the College’s history of delivering topnotch, Industry-tailored education, and help build an even stronger presence in the professional world of technology.

observation deck— with a view of the entire city

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

ultra-modern feature— 25 meter indoor swimming pool

THE MODERN MARVEL—

student plaza—

17-story eco-friendly building in the heart of Manila’s famous University Belt

a place for student activities and events

With this alliance comes the new FEU Tech Building, called “The Modern Marvel,” a 17-story building in the heart of Manila’s famous University Belt. Its ultra-modern features include scenic elevators, electronic library facilities, a covered gym and basketball court, a 25 meter indoor swimming pool, eco-friendly Green Building Technology, e-Building high tech security, standby power supply and generators, energy efficient air conditioning, fully equipped classrooms and laboratories, secured garage parking, building-wide WiFi accessibility, and an observation deck with a view of the entire city. ◊ #FEUtech #ModernMarvel

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

CH r E T feuchola s

THE

IVY LEAGUE WORDS: FRANCIS FITZGERALD INTAL INTERVIEW: ANGELA FRANCES NILO & CARLA DENISE ESTRELLA PHOTOS: BENEDICK BAUTISTA

The Innovator recently sat down to interview Ivy Carissa Dela Cruz, a 25-year-old director at UHS, a former business analyst for Chevron, and a magna cum laude alumna of FEU Tech, and found her “rags-to-riches” story inspiring. Continue reading to find out more about her journey into the “Ivy” League.

“

I WAS ONLY ABLE TO STUDY AT FEU TECH

BECAUSE OF MY

SCHOLARSHIP. I WAS THANKFUL FOR THIS BLESSING THAT GOD HAD GIVEN ME.

”

vy Carissa Dela Cruz is a bright, cheerful young lady with the same perky exuberance of a kid on Christmas morning. During our interview, she was so much fun that we almost forgot to ask her any of our prepared questions. Ivy really does show that being successful can also be a lot of fun. She’s definitely in a league of her own. But Ivy wasn’t always a smiling success. She came from humble beginnings, and, at times, the future looked grim for her: “Sometimes the happiest people have the saddest stories,” Ivy said of her childhood. Nevertheless, she worked hard, studied diligently, and was able to graduate Salutatorian from Torres High School, a public school in Tondo, Manila. “My parents used to say, ‘Anak, edukasyon lang ang maipapamana namin sayo,’ or ‘Child, education is your only inheritance.’ So, I thought that I really needed to be the best that

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

I could be, because education would be my only treasure.” She knew that she needed to go to college, but she also knew that Manila’s more prominent colleges were quite expensive. Even taking their entrance exams could be pricey. She wasn’t sure what to do. Her financial problems were solved, however, in 2004, when Ivy found her way to FEU Tech and took their free entrance exam. Not only was she accepted, but the College also awarded her an Academic Scholarship and an SM Foundation Scholarship. She could get an education, and the school would shoulder most of the cost. “I was only able to study at FEU Tech because of my scholarship. I was thankful for this blessing that God had given me.” Her life at the College quickly became a time for learning, but not just from teachers

“

FEU TECH TAUGHT ME TO

GET OUT OF MY COMFORT ZONE. IT’S ABOUT FINDING EXPERIENCES.

”

“

I ALWAYS SAW MYSELF WORKING FOR A MULTINATIONAL COMPANY, WITH A GOOD SALARY. AND IT ACTUALLY HAPPENED,

LESS THAN TWO MONTHS AFTER GRADUATING FROM COLLEGE.

”

or books. She also learned about the necessity of gaining experience and being “uncomfortable.” “FEU Tech taught me to get out of my comfort zone,” said Ivy about being successful. “It’s about finding experiences.” She took the idea of being “uncomfortable” to heart. She explained that she used to be a naturally shy person, but was able to break out of her comfort zone during college and become an active, outgoing student, even going so far as becoming Student Coordinating Council President, from 2006-2008. She also worked part-time on weekends to take care of personal expenses and make some pocket money. In her fourth year, she took a big initiative and went to an FEU Tech sponsored career fair, where she landed a paid internship with Sykes Enterprises, one of the College’s industry partners. And, despite her extra-curricular load, Ivy still managed to graduate magna cum laude, in 2008, earning her BS in Computer Engineering. When Ivy’s time at FEU Tech came to an end, it didn’t take long for her to receive job offers, including a high-paying position at Chevron, an American multinational energy corporation and, according to Forbes

Magazine, America’s third largest corporation overall. “During my college days, I always saw myself working for a multinational company, with a good salary. And it actually happened, less than two months after graduating from college. I started with [Chevron]. The company compensation was really great!” Ivy is now a director at UHS, a pharmaceutical company in Makati. She has traveled the world, having visited exotic places like Fiji and Israel (for a Holy Land Pilgrimage). She enjoys reading, studying, and doing community service. Last April, she was featured in KERYGMA Magazine, the largest Catholic publication in the Philippines. She is also interested in real estate investment and owns property in Taguig City, where she currently resides in an upscale condominium complex. When asked about this last accomplishment, Ivy said proudly, “For 25 years, my mom has worked as a public school teacher, but we never had our own house until now.” Finally, when asked to give advice to our 4th year students at FEU Tech, Ivy smiled broadly: “Don’t compete with others. Compete with yourself. Be in a league of your own.” ◊

THE INNOVATOR | Special Edition

ch r e t feuchola s

ALEXANDER

THE GREAT WORDS: FRANCIS FITZGERALD INTAL INTERVIEW: ANGELA FRANCES NILO PHOTOS: NELSON VILLAMAYOR

The Innovator was lucky to grab some time with Engr. Alexander Rey A. Gervacio, 28 year-old boss of three different companies. Ever since finishing his Civil Engineering degree at FEU Tech, the man has been super busy at making his empire grow.

he calm eyes of Alexander Rey A. Gervacio seem to laugh softly when he talks, and his wide, flat goatee directs your attention to his enigmatic smile. He looks like a chill guy—he’s anything but, really. Alexander is busy being the boss of three different companies: He’s CEO of Fiber Holding Development Corp (FHDC); Vice President of Operations at GSI Construction; and President and founder of Green Tag Property Solutions Inc., a quickly rising real estate company he started with his wife. For the ambitious young Alexander, calm is not an option.

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“

My goals evolve.

They get bigger.

”

“ “Some say that I’ve succeeded, but at the moment, I don’t consider anything as my greatest accomplishment yet. I still have many goals,” Alexander said matter-of-factly. “For example, in the past, my goal was to become a good engineer, but now my goal is to hire good engineers. Another example: before, when I was 23, I wanted P5,000,000 in my bank account before I was 25. But, later, I realized it was too small. Way too small. My goals evolve. They get bigger.” As a college student at FEU Tech, Alexander was a consistent academic scholar who studied Civil Engineering, following in the footsteps of his parents, both of whom are Civil Engineers. When you meet Alexander, you get a strong sense of his independent spirit, which he has developed since a very young age: “My father always tried to make me independent. He would give me projects to do on my own.”

something “toProve yourselves. ”

Don’t be content with passing.

feu tech taught me that, when I’m given a problem, there are always several approaches to solving that problem. You have to be strategic.

”

Yeah, nothing calm about Alexander. When asked about what major lessons he took from being at FEU Tech, Alexander responded, “FEU Tech taught me that, when I’m given a problem, there are always several approaches to solving that problem. You have to be strategic. For example, when I need to hire someone, I know not everyone with all the licenses is great. It’s in what they can do. So, if my problem is that I need someone new, I will look at that problem many different ways until I find the right solution. That’s what I carry with me even now.” And, finally, when asked if he had any advice for students still studying at FEU Tech, Alexander’s eyes laughed, and he offered two parting thoughts: “Don’t be content with passing. Prove something to yourselves.” “Find your passion. If you want to venture into business, it’s either by passion or you’re really great at it. You’re lucky if you have both.” ◊

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h c e t lar u e f cho s

LESTER IS

LEGEND

WORDS: spencer milton maranang-co INTERVIEW: ANGELA FRANCES NILO

Photo by: Lester P. Rivera

hen you first meet Lester P. Rivera, he gives you the impression that he’s pretty ordinary—a quiet, modest guy. Nothing special. This is a good example of how first impressions can be deceiving. Lester is far from ordinary. In fact, ask his batch mates, and they’ll basically tell you the same thing: Lester is a genius. He was in the top 3 of his high school graduating batch. At FEU Tech, he maintained his academic scholarship for all four years. He was given numerous distinctions and honors, including graduating summa cum laude, the highest distinction a graduate can receive—he was also the first one ever to do it, in I.T. His batch mates used to say that, for Lester, it was a piece of cake. But Lester denies being a genius. “My only secret is hard work and a passion to learn any subject,” he said. “I’m not a super student. I’m not a super hero.” Like a lot of students, Lester found his English courses difficult, especially English Literature. “I found it hard to love,” he said. “It’s definitely not my favorite subject.” But, according to him, to do well in any subject, even the ones you hate the most, it simply requires the right attitude. “It’s just a matter of forcing your mind to love a subject. Also, you have to find the

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Lester P. Rivera is smart. Scary smart. In 2009, he graduated summa cum laude from FEU Tech with a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, and he’s got about a million certifications. Continue reading to find out more about this extraordinary scholar and how his life is the stuff of legends.

right motivation. My mind-set was that I didn’t want to lose my scholarship. It’s hard, bringing that kind of expense to my family. That’s why, whenever there was a subject that I didn’t like, I always thought that it was my scholarship on the line. So, I found the will to study.” When asked about being the first to graduate summa cum laude, Lester gave a similar answer: “Initially, my target was only to graduate and maintain my scholarship. But then I was challenged. They said, no student had ever received the highest honor, summa cum laude. So I decided that I wanted to prove them wrong. I wanted to show them that being Summa is not just a legend. That was my motivation.” Lester’s ability to motivate himself has carried him pretty far in the world. His list of certifications is impressive: • Microsoft Certified Information Technology Professional – SharePoint Server 2010 Administrator • Microsoft Certified: Customer Immersion Experience (CIE) Facilitator • Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2010, Configuring • Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007, Configuring o Microsoft Certified Professional ID: 7655383

He was also a faculty member at FEU Tech for a short while. As of now, he’s an Application Technical Analyst at Chevron, one of the world’s largest energy corporations. His advice to students still working their way through college is simple: “You need passion and hard work. If you have these two things, no matter how bokya you were before, eventually everything will turn into success.” Whether or not Lester is a genius— we still think he is—doesn’t seem to matter much. Without the power to motivate himself, Lester doesn’t think he could’ve accomplished what he has so far; the genius of Lester really lies less in his brains and more in his dedication. And, it doesn’t take a genius to see how the right amount of dedication can make anyone into a legend. ◊

“

My only secret is

hard work & a passion to learn any subject

”

cer suc tifi ces ed s

HOW CERTIFICATIONS CAN

IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES IN THE INDUSTRY

FEU Tech offers their students the chance to get some pretty hefty I.T. certifications. But what does it mean to be certified and how does it change your chances at getting a high-paying job? To find the answers, we talked to some of our instructors from the Information Technology Education Department, all of whom have certifications of their own. Here’s what we found out.

“

They’re the preferred candidate.

he Innovator first spoke to the Director of the ITE department, Rossana T. Adao, a cheerful, humorous woman who’s been with FEU for 19 years. “I was an alumna of FEU, and my first job was also with the College, and I got my master’s degree at FEU, and I’m still here at FEU. They can’t get rid of me!” Rossana, called “Osang” by friends and co-workers, certainly is an integral part of the College. Aside from being director, she’s also Cisco certified and the founder of the Cisco Certification Program at the College. It was good to go to her first.

Rossana T. Adao

ITE Director / Faculty Cisco Certified Network Associate

“

What does it mean to be certified?

Our students meet the standard set by industry,

not only locally but also internationally!

”

The Industry prefers to hire certified people—they become the reference point.

“When you’re certified, it basically means you’re considered a professional, and that your skills are now internationally recognized by the Industry. You can go anywhere around the world, and the people there will honor your certification—in Cisco, in Autodesk, in Oracle, in SAP, in all the certifications FEU Tech offers.” How does certifications help students get good jobs in IT? “So, when you join the College and study I.T., you can choose a certification to study for, and then you can take the certification exam here, because we’re also a Pearson VUE Center, and, if you pass, you’ll pretty much be ready to work anywhere. The

Industry prefers to hire certified people— they become the reference point. They’re the preferred candidate. Certification is sometimes even a requirement. Also, since your skills are now internationally recognized, you can look for a job locally or abroad. Your prospects are huge.” What’s Cisco Certification? Cisco Certification can mean a lot of different things—the company is very big. But, here at Tech, it means you’re a professional in networking and telecommunication technology. So, management positions are definitely attainable. For example, you can be a system administrator or network administrator.” Why should someone study at FEU Tech? Don’t other schools also offer certifications? “Well, there are lots of reasons to come to FEU Tech aside from certification. Our Cisco program is much better than that of other schools. For example, we offer four courses in Cisco, whereas other schools only offer two. So, when you study here, you’re really prepared for the exam. We also give you exam vouchers, which make the exam about 50% cheaper. And, most importantly, you get to have me as one of your instructors!”

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The next person The Innovator interviewed was Abigail L. Alix, the Multimedia Coordinator for the ITE Department. Abigail, or just “Abi,” is a young lady with a toothy smile and a lot of fun energy. Like Rossana, Abi is a home-grown iTamaraw: she got her BS in Computer Information Systems (BSCIS), and her master’s degree in Information Technology (MIT), at FEU Tech. She is also something of a pioneer, being one of the first five Filipinos to be certified by Autodesk—in fact, three of the other five are also faculty members. Can you describe Autodesk Maya for our readers? “Autodesk Maya is 3D computer graphics software. We use it to make animated 3D models for video games, animated film, TV series, or visual effects. Stuff like Halo [video game], Game of Thrones [TV series], and Rango [animated film]—all those have effects made with Maya. It’s a pretty important software, and it’s a lot of fun to use. You can really make some cool things with it.”

Abigail L. Alix Multimedia Coordinator / Faculty

“

Autodesk Maya Certified Associate Autodesk Maya Certified Professional, Models to Motion

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That’s one of the biggest things the College really does for them.

It makes them quick to adapt.

”

I was one of the first five Filipinos to be certified by Autodesk. In that way, I guess I’m a pioneer...

”

So, you’re a pioneer in Autodesk certification?

“Yes, I guess you can say that. I was one of the first five Filipinos to be certified by Autodesk. In that way, I guess I’m a pioneer. But three of our other faculty members were part of that first five, too. They’re also pioneers.” Why is Autodesk Maya Certification important? “All certifications can be very important. It really does make what you have learned more concrete. Autodesk, for example—you get a license, and that license, like an add-on, is recognized

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“

...students work smarter, faster, and harder. We really train them.

”

internationally. Your skillset is always going to be recognized, no matter where you go. You can work in Korea, Japan, the US—wherever animation is big and the jobs are good—you can go there, and you don’t have to worry about people not respecting your skills.” Well, you kind of answered this next question already, but, anyway, how does Autodesk Maya Certification, or any other certification, help students get good jobs? “In line with what I was saying earlier, students who are certified often enter the Industry ready—they work smarter, faster, and harder. We really train them. Yes, it can be tough, but our students thank us later. They tell us how good it was for them to go through the rigorous courses, and how important their certifications really mean in the Industry. And, you know, it gives them bragging rights, too. They build up their confidence as professionals. Companies love to hire graduates with certifications.” Why should someone study at FEU Tech? Don’t other schools also offer certifications? “Unlike other programs in other schools, we have four subjects for Autodesk Maya, instead of the usual two. Also, if you specialize in Digital Arts, getting certified is a requirement. We want you to have all the benefits of certifications, because we know it’s good for you, so we make sure you get it. And it’s not just about certifications. The College really gives you everything you need. Trust me, I know. I’m not just a faculty here. I went through the program myself.”

“

My skills and training are valid anywhere I go.

”

So, you’re also a pioneer in Autodesk certification?

“Yes, sorta. Some of us in the ITE are the first to get Autodesk certification in the Philippines, which makes us pretty much like pioneers.” Why do you choose to stay at FEU Tech?

Jabez Mendoza Faculty

Autodesk Certified Associate Adobe Flash Professional

Finally, the last person we talked to was Jabez Mendoza, a dedicated, passionate young man and faculty member of the ITE Department. Jabez, too, is a homegrown iTamaraw, having finished his bachelor’s degree in Information Technology (BSIT) and master’s degree in Information Technology (MIT) at FEU Tech—and, like Rossana and Abi, he was a consistent scholar. Of being a scholar, Jabez says, “I’m really grateful to the College and to God for this blessing,” and he “owes his success to both.” Jabez is also one of the first five Filipinos to be certified by Autodesk in the Philippines. He is also an Adobe Professional in Flash animation, having received his certification while attending FEU Tech. Because of his certifications, he knows that it would be easy to go anywhere locally or abroad and work for a multinational corporation. “My skills and training are valid anywhere I go. Just knowing that makes me very proud,” he said.

“

The curriculum is very good. We always revamp it to make sure we’re keeping up with tech in the Industry.

”

“I love teaching. I love the fact that I am changing people for the better. We’re really doing something big for the futures of our students. And the department here is great. The people are very warm and fun, but they’re also really dedicated. I love their energy.” Why should someone study at FEU Tech? “The curriculum is very good. We always revamp it to make sure we’re keeping up with tech in the Industry. Our students know this, too. They leave here, and they’re not surprised by what they see or experience in the Industry. They really have the jump ahead. And, they don’t just stop learning when they leave school. Students know how quickly tech changes, and they’re prepared to keep up with those changes. I like to think that that’s one of the biggest things the College really does for them. It makes them quick to adapt.”

“

The College really gives you everything you need to do well in the industry.

”

These ITE faculty members all seem supremely confident in what certifications can do for their students. The College currently offers all major certifications, including Cisco, Autodesk, SAP, and Oracle. Join FEU Tech and experience the power of certifications for yourself! ◊

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sed a b cte j pro

g n i n r lea

FEU TECH InnovateS

Computer Software and Mobile Applications BY JOYCE ARABY ALCABASA

o prepare students for the Industry, FEU Tech incorporates Project-Based Learning into its curriculum. Students are instructed to find clients, listen to their needs, and create real solutions. Here’s a few innovations in software and apps that we’d like to share. Software that detects a person’s hidden emotions (facial attributes, characteristics, and expressions system) Ever wanted to know how a person was really feeling? Is someone’s “poker face” too hard to read? Well, thanks to some FEU Tech students, you now have an effective way of really “reading” someone’s face for their true emotions and reactions. Computer Science students Kintaro K. Ito, Richard M. Paraggua, and Edwin Richbald A. Salinas have developed a piece of software that can detect microexpressions, involuntary facial expressions that last between 1/25 to 1/15 of a second. Prominent psychologists, including microexpression studies pioneer Paul Eckman, have determined that, within a fraction of a second, a person may unintentionally reveal his true feelings or emotions, whether positive or negative. Detecting and analyzing these microexpressions can then give you the ability to “read” a person and even determine if he’s lying. But, detecting a microexpression in a person can be very difficult for most people, especially those with untrained eyes. That’s where our FEU Tech students come in. Commissioned by their client Radyo Veritas 846, these students developed a system that “reads” a person’s face while they are speaking or reacting to information, and then detects any microexpressions during the exchange. You can then review the data and determine what emotions the person is feeling.

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Mobile Calculus Calculator App If you’re like me, you find math a little hard— especially calculus. To help people like me, Team 7 has developed an Android application called the Mobile Calculus Calculator, which is able to solve four derivatives and four integral functions. It can also solve six trigonometric functions for each. It also has a tutorial and function list for derivation and integration. Its interface is user friendly and the tutorials show steps on how to solve derivative and integral problems using the calculator. Team 7 claims that users of their app can solve derivative problems in seconds. I definitely need to get my hands on this one!

Digital assistant that helps you stay physically fit When you’re always busy with school work and exams, sometimes it’s hard to find time to exercise. And, because of all the junk food we consume day to day, the pounds get packed in. So, FEU Tech students Radiant C. Juan, Alberto L. Espinosa, Camille Faye V. Navarrete, and Sean Melvin U. Dela Cruz have developed a handy app that really forces you to get into shape. Their creation is the Health Buff Assistant, an Android application that helps users track calorie intake and body mass index, manage work-out schedules, and learn different types of exercises and routines. It’s like having a personal trainer anywhere at any time! ◊

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ed s a t-b c e j pro

g n i n r a le

FEU TECH Innovates

Security and Safety H

ere at The Innovator, we are dedicated to changing the way you see the world. That’s why it’s our duty to show you how the students of FEU Tech are improving technology and affecting our society in positive, potentially life-saving ways. Check out some of their innovations!

Solar-Powered LED Street Light

with Time-Based and Sensor-Based Solar Tracker System Are you afraid to go out at night? Are streets and alleys too dark to seem safe? Has a brownout (or blackout) left your neighborhood in pitch black? Well, thanks to a team of FEU Tech students, you might never have to worry about those things ever again. Here’s how it works: A solar panel attached to an LED street lamp captures solar energy from the sun, converts it into electricity, and stores the electricity in batteries. By harnessing the power of the sun, the LED street lamp is not only more environmentally friendly, but also brownout (blackout) proof, so it’ll keep on shining even if there isn’t electricity running through the city; the solar batteries can last for four consecutive nights. On top of that, the lamp’s solar panels sit on a motorized mount controlled by a Sensor-Based Solar Tracker. The sensor then detects the position of the sun in the sky and rotates the panels accordingly, allowing them the most optimal position for absorbing the sun’s rays. Even President Benigno Aquino showed interest in FEU Tech’s innovation. How cool is that!

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Micro Controller-Based

Anti-Theft Parking There are 40 million people on motorbikes in the Philippines (Wow, that’s nearly half the population!), so it’s not surprising to hear that motorbike theft is a major problem. That’s why another team of FEU Tech students decided to do something about it. Their solution? Micro Controller-Based Anti-Theft parking for motorbikes. Here’s how it works: The system is governed by two microcontrollers (PIC16F877) and has three main features, a fingerprint scanner (biometric authentication), a bill/coin acceptor, and a motorized clamp. After a motorist parks his vehicle into a specially designated slot, he inserts a set amount of money into the bill/coin acceptor. The computer recognizes the money and then requires the motorist to scan his thumbprint. The motorized clamp then locks the back wheel and engine into place, preventing others from removing the bike from the slot. To unlock the clamp, the motorist scans his thumbprint again and the motorbike is released.

Radio Controlled

Methane and Propane Gas Detector Robot Most people are aware that gas leaks can be deadly. And most people also know that they can avoid any problems with gas leaks if they have a proper gas leak detector. But, what most people don’t know is that the College’s students are developing a new, more innovative version of the old gadget. How it works: Your typical gas leak detector uses sensors to monitor a certain area of coverage for the presence of any noxious gases. This can be especially important for industrial sites that work with and utilize an array of dangerous chemicals and their potentially deadly fumes. The prototype developed by students at FEU Tech is even more effective at doing this gas leak monitoring and is able to more quickly alert operators of a hazard. The quicker the response, the more time there is to prevent a possibly lethal situation, thus protecting and saving lives. ◊

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STEN BAUTISTA, 3RD YEAR BS Information technologydigital arts