The Top 5 In-Demand Jobs in the Philippines by 2020

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Among countries in Southeast Asia, our country is one of the lowest in employment rates due to job mismatch. So to guide our future professionals on what career to take in college, here are the jobs that are still in-demand by 2020. 

1. Aircraft Pilot/Navigator/Flight Engineer

Air travel is expected to increase in the next decades so the airline companies are taking advantage of this surge. Part of the plan is to acquire more planes so the need for staffs also grows. It will take at least 4 years to earn a degree so it is best to take an aviation course now.

2. Computer Systems Analyst

It can’t be denied that businesses rely more on computers for a more efficient and systematic delivery of products and services. Because of this, the need for IT pros like the makers and designers of computer systems also increases. To become a systems analyst, you need to be good in logic and math and earn a degree in computer science.

3. Computer Programmer
Unlike computer systems analysts that work on both hardware and software, programmers only focus on the latter. They create games, programs, and apps that are in-demand for this generation. To be a certified code expert, you need to earn a degree in I.T.

4. Civil Engineer

When it comes to the basic needs of human like shelter, there is no shortage in job vacancies. Builders like civil engineers are hired in large-scale construction, business, or infrastructure development. To be a licensed builder, you need to take a 5-year course and pass the board exam.

5. Accountant

As long as the money is used in our daily activities, the need for accountants will always be there. To be certified, you need a degree in accountancy and pass the board exam. But even if you don’t have a license, you can still work as a bookkeeper.

Aside from these professions, posts for Business Process Outsourcing companies and skilled workers will still be in-demand by the year 2020.

Do you have more insights about this issue? Please feel free to share your thoughts on the comments section below. 

How Can Young Professionals Maximize Their Free Time?

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Young professionals have enough time for everything, something that others envy. Since they have yet to form their own family, they can grab opportunities that will broaden their horizons and allow them to grow.

In your 20s and working on weekdays, sometimes you get bored on weekends or even after your shift. You become tired of watching movies, reading books, biking, blogging, accessing Facebook and Twitter accounts, and working freelance jobs.

How do you fight boredom, then? Are there things you can do that will not cause you mental and physical stress?

Suggested Ways

Are you looking for ways to maximize your free time? Below is a list of diversions you can embark on and make yourself busy.

• Trainings – Join trainings in writing, culinary, and more.
• Short Course – You can enroll in a short course to improve your skills or learn new ones. You may explore web design or game development.
• Photography – If you want to gain or boost your skills in photography or videography, enroll online.
• Arts and Crafts Workshop – Want to learn paper crafts, embroidery, sewing, weaving, painting, or gardening? Find workshops to learn the basics and specifics.
• Financial Seminar – If your job involves complex computations, join related seminars to gain tips, learn techniques, and know current trends or concepts.

Stuff to Ponder

Consider a few factors before joining any of the mentioned activities.

• Proximity of the location – Make sure the activity occurs near your home or workplace if not online. This will save you fuel and money.
• Family – Even if you are single or living with relatives, bond or communicate with them always. This will help you keep a good relationship with them.
• Personal health – Do not sacrifice your health for better prospects. Consult a doctor often for a medical examination.
• Time management – Carry your organizer and notes to keep your appointments and put things in priority.

Use time well. Take part in worthwhile activities to sharpen your competitive edge.

Seven Things I Regret Not Doing in College

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If i had only done these things, i could have a better life now. I am not saying that I have a hard life. But, i could have more if I had performed well in college. 

I never thought that I will be sharing my remorse one day. But, I am. I realize, if this article reached millions of students out there, it would help them do better in college. 

I believe, I fail to maximize what college can offer. And, If I could go back now, I would do these things:

 1.   Get more friends. During college days, I hide from my shell. I avoid parties and invitations from acquaintances.  In short, I am shunning opportunities to meet more friends. To think that making more friends has benefits during and after college. They could be your companions and mentors to help you cope the hard years in college. Then, right after graduation, they can give you referrals for a better job.

2.   Join school club and be active. Clubs are important to improve knowledge and life skills. Under one umbrella, you can find members supporting you. I regret not finding a good group because it is a way to gain self-confidence and sense of belonging.

3.   Do my homework on my own. It’s a shame to admit, but I let someone else do my Accounting subject’s assignments. Thus, I pass the subject with less knowledge on taxation and balancing of transactions.

4.   Not dropping even one subject. I often dropped subjects because I want things to be easy. I am a working student then. So, it is quite hard to manage my time. But I regret doing this because it just add more years to my studies.

5.   Take extra load. It could add stress, but I would have finished my course ahead of time.

6.   Maintain good grades. It was during job hunting that I find the importance of having good grades. If you look for your first job, employers will look into your transcript to weigh performance in class. As such, high marks can make you employable.

7.   Take my thesis seriously. It was heartbreaking for me to fail on my first thesis defense, where in fact, I find it easy. It was wrong for me to take the research lightly. 

It’s really ironic to wish that I could go back to my college days. I guess the best lesson learned: do your best and try everything that will give good paybacks until you are young and capable. Be reminded that the things you do in college are small pieces that complete a thriving future. 

Ten Beautiful Schools in the World

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Can pretty campuses inspire you to study better? Of course, it can. The environment, location, and design of a campus are a cure after strenuous lectures.

One factor that could push you to go to school is the structure. You can never hide the fact that you are among the students who look at the aesthetic feature when choosing a school. 

College Magazine reveals the most stunning schools. Here are some of them:

1. Stanford University (SU)

The world’s leading teaching and research university is located at Silicon Valley, California, USA. Surrounded by beautiful hills and the red roof, no one will doubt why it is included in the world’s most beautiful campuses.

2. The University of Notre Dame (UND)

The university is a place where faith and diverse traditions are treasured and respected. Founded in 1842, Notre Dame is built on 1,250 acres at South Bend, Indiana. Gothic architecture, park-like landscape, exquisite outdoor sculpture, and breathtaking views made the campus a marvelous sight.

3. Dartmouth College

The campus is located in Hanover, New Hampshire. This private institution was founded in 1769. Its location in the upper valley region, calm forests, and pastel mountain makes the campus more beautiful.

4. University of Florida

Palm trees, Spanish moss, and the people are among the pride of the campus. The Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, the “swamp” its students, is a good place for you to stay.

5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill)

Great history, good weather, activities, and the Morehead-Petterson Bell Towering make the campus beautiful.

6. New College of Florida

With location near Sarasota Bay, who will not love the place? The Ringling Brothers formerly owned the three huge pink mansions inside the campus.

7. Duke University

The campus is a gothic wonderland to its students. The spire of the duke chapel brings you back to old English era. What’s more, there are nooks, which are good place to stay and study. The campus is in Durham, North Carolina.

8. Pratt Institute

The Architectural Digest ranked the college among the top U.S. colleges with the best Architecture. Even the Wall Street Journal features the campus’ landscape redesign. The private institute, a center for arts, design, and business, is located in New York City.

9. Georgetown University

The “Hilltop” to many, is the school was used in most scenes from the movie Harry Potter. Great history and Potomac River makes the campus beautiful. If you want to experience a Hogwarts feeling, then be in the school.

10. Tulane University

The university is a blend of Renaissance and modern architecture. You will find the campus in New Orleans.

In a real sense, college campus will be your home away from home. Isn’t it right to choose a structure that filled your eyes with beauty and coziness? So, check out these schools with gorgeous architecture and great location. 

Alternative Learning System: An Education Within Reach

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Education is due to everyone.  There should be no limitations when giving this right. Whether you are a dropout, want to pursue study, or simply wanting to read and write his name, the Alternative Learning System (ALS) can give you a second chance. 

When you cannot access formal learning in schools, you can turn to ALS. This nationwide program provides a non-formal education to persons who want to learn.

How does it work?

ALS targets out-of-school children, youth, and adults who need basic literacy skills. If you are interested in the system, you will also go through a screening process. You will take the Functionality Literacy Test (FLT) to determine the teaching and learning plan to use.

ALS has two non-formal learning programs, these are:

• The basic literacy program (BLP) for illiterate
• Continuing Education: Accreditation and Equivalency (A&E) for elementary and high school drop-outs.

As an ALS student, you must attend 10 months of school or 800 hours in the classroom.  It is a module-based learning system and a facilitator shall handle the class. You are given a schedule and quizzes, too. After some months, you will take the Accreditation and Equivalency test (AET). Passing the test would mean a diploma and a chance to enroll in college.

According to the Department of Education’s (DepEd), to qualify for the ALS AET, you must be:

• An elementary dropout at least 11 years old on or before the day of test
• A high school dropout at least 15 years old on or before the day of the test
• Non-passers of past ALS A&E test/s
• Learners or completers of the ALS programs
• Current students enrolled in the formal school system who are two years older than the regular school age (13 years old for elementary level, and 17 years old for the secondary level)

You only need to submit the following:

• latest 2″x2″ ID photos; original and photocopy of any of the following (valid driver’s license, valid passport, voter’s ID, SSS/GSIS ID, Postal ID or NBI clearance).
• If you can’t submit the above requirements, you may forward a photocopy and present the original copy of any of the following documents: authenticated birth certificate; latest report card (form 138/form 137); or Barangay certification with photo.

If you missed formal school, you can still finish elementary or high school.  DepEd’s ALS program will give you the hope to go to college and be a productive youth. What’s more, test registration, certificate of rating, and diploma are free of charge.