A merit scholar of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Undergraduate Scholarship Program emerged as one of the top placers of the 2023 Mining Engineering Licensure Examination released last August 2023.
Franklin Mejorada Jr., a graduate of the University of Southeastern Philippines, said that topping the exams was really one of his goals but was still surprised when he achieved the feat.
Drawing inspiration from his brother who is also a Mining Engineer, Mejorada decided to take the course hoping to shed light on the importance of responsible mining.
“Mining is an essential industry worldwide and plays a significant role in the development of our economy. Responsible mining will have a substantial and positive impact on the communities,” he added.
Throughout his study, Mejorada was supported by the DOST Scholarship which he said was a ‘lifeline’ for him because it provided him with the needed financial support and relieved his parents of additional expenses.
“The scholarship stipend provided me access to the necessary resources for my studies and I managed to support myself during the Licensure Examination review phase because it covered the review center fees, my accommodation for two months, and other needs. I am truly grateful for the opportunity,” he added.
He further encouraged interested students to avail of the DOST Scholarship because it provides financial aid and valuable opportunities in the fields of science and technology.
Mejorada also hopes to find a job soon and explore more in the Mining Engineering field to give back to his family who supported him throughout his journey.
For future Mining Engineers, Mejorada encouraged them to experiment with study techniques that will work best for them. He also said that smiling will help overcome anxiety and it will help shape the mindset and focus throughout the exam.
“When you have done your part, explored and exhausted everything, all you have to do is have faith and entrust the rest to Him. Based on my personal experience, it’s safe to assert that the formula for success is simple, faith + grit = success!” he added.
To encourage students to pursue studies in the S&T field, the DOST-SEI offers scholarship programs such as the Undergraduate Scholarship for incoming first year college students and the Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS) for third year college students.
Recently, 393 students from Davao region participated in the 2023 DOST-SEI JLSS qualifying examination and the results will be released later this year. — (PR)
Photo courtesy of DOST R-11
