Despite pressure and challenges, the Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) batch 2023 graduate Neal Audrey Estrelloso topped the October 2023 Chemical Engineer Licensure exam (ChELE). 

Obtaining an 86.70% rating, Estrelloso ranked fifth on the boards and shared that he did not stress himself regarding the possible deferment of the University as a Level 3 Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU) accredited institution.

As a PAASCU-recognized university, AdDU must adhere to quality performance on licensure examinations and passing rates that are consistently on par with the national passing rates. Last May 2023, the University did not rank among the top-performing schools for the ChELE, with only a 44.4% overall passing rate.

“I did not pressure myself… as I already have a lot on my plate. I set my sights on grabbing the license, and thankfully, the success of our batch followed,” Estrelloso said.

AdDU ranked sixth on the list of top-performing schools in the exam, with a passing rate of 81.58% and 31 out of 38 of the examinees passing the examination. 

Estrelloso, who attended a review center in Cebu City, shared that his key method of studying is learning how to solve problems by himself first before learning about the topic. 

“This way, I usually remember what points I did wrong or what concepts I forgot to take into account. Also, covering all the bases is vital in studying for the board exams, so I read a lot of books on topics covered by our licensure exams,” Estrelloso said.

When asked what advice he could give to students and other future examinees, the topnotcher shared one should never forget why they are taking that path in the first place.

“Remember your ‘WHYs’! Your motivations will keep you on track and will be your primary driving force to give your best in preparation for your board exams,” Estrelloso said.

“Cover all the bases, and do not leave room for doubt. Also, don’t stop loving your hobbies! Take a break from time to time and watch that show or play that game you like. Don’t push yourself too hard,” he added.

Moving forward, Estrelloso said he is still weighing possible career pathways as he is getting ready for the Chemical Technician Licensure Exam (ChTLE) this December.

“I guess my immediate plans would be to study for the next board exam I’ll take. Looking forward, I hope that I can be in a healthy working environment that is an advocate of what I believe in,” Estrelloso shared.

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) conducted the exam last October 14-16 and released the list of passers and topnotchers four days later last October 20.