Moneth Macatubac: Journey to Success in the Special Professional Licensure Examination (SPLE) 2023 Interview

April 2023 Special Professional Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers Board Passer: An Interview with Moneth Macatubac — April 2023 Special Professional Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers Board Passer: An Interview with Month Macatubac

We delve into the experiences and insights of a successful SPLE (Special Professional Licensure Examination) passer. Moneth, who has faced various challenges, shares valuable lessons and strategies for preparing and excelling in the exam. This serves as an inspiration for anyone aspiring to achieve professional success through determination, hard work, and faith.

Here’s an up close and personal interview with Moneth Macatubac:

How do you feel about receiving the news that you passed the board exam?

Mixed emotions! Shocked!!! After that, her tears fell to the max, and she thanks Allah. Then she sent a message to her family; they were surprised by the news, especially her mother. She cried too. She’s so happy because all of her sacrifices and too much-awaited time turned to ALHAMDULILLAH.

Have you received such recognition before? Please give details.

During her grade one days, she was a third honor. In her fourth year of high school, during their graduation day, she got 20th rank. And she’s proud of being an OFW here in Kuwait, with only one employer for 17 years.

What is your job here in Kuwait? How long have you been OFW?

She is a domestic helper (all-around) for 17 years.

Who do you attribute your success to?

Her family, especially her beloved mother and her next family.

Who has inspired you to take up SPLE?

Her inspiration stems from within, her family, and Ma’am Lilian, as well as everyone who played a role in her journey.

What were the reactions of your family to this board’s passing?

Her family’s reactions were filled with joy and pride, expressing happiness for her remarkable achievement.

To what extent was TSOK helpful in your success story?

She acknowledges that without TSOK and the dedicated efforts of its officers, taking the LET EXAM (SPLE) would not have been possible. The organization played a crucial role in her journey, helping her achieve her goal of obtaining a teacher’s license.

What is your plan for the future or your dream after passing this exam?

Her future plans include giving her best to share her knowledge, fostering continuous learning for herself and her future students. Above all, she aspires to secure a teaching position in DepEd or BARMM (an item teacher).

Is this your first licensure exam? Do you plan on taking other exams, and what would it be?

No! Hahaha, more trials, more experience, and more learning. How many times I failed, but I never stopped taking exams. Maybe my masteral degree if I have a chance, considering my age now.

What message would you like to give to the upcoming board exam taker?

Her advice to upcoming board exam takers is to study with focus, remembering to pray before each study session. She encourages them never to give up, emphasizing that Allah has a perfect time for each person to shine and overcome the challenges they encounter.

How did you know about the SPLE?

The information about the SPLE reached her through her relatives.

When did you decide to apply: after graduation or after finding a job? Why?

Opting to apply after finding a job, she found it more convenient as it aligns with the ease of application when already licensed.

What did you expect from the SPLE regarding the content of the exam? How different is it from college entrance exams?

Anticipating a challenging exam, she felt nervous, highlighting the significant difference from college entrance exams where the excitement for college life prevailed.

What questions were easy to answer (e.g., solving, logical reasoning, abstract reasoning)?

She found abstract reasoning questions relatively easier to answer.

Did you attend a review center? Which review center? (a.) If yes, how did it affect your preparation for the SPLE? (b.) If not, how did you prepare for the exam in terms of resources and review materials?

Yes, she attended CBRC and received guidance from Sir Melvin B., citing that it significantly contributed to her preparation for the SPLE.

How many of the things you reviewed appeared in the exam?

While she couldn’t recall specific details, she noted that not too many of the reviewed topics appeared in the exam.

How many weeks or months did you prepare for the exam?

She dedicated almost three months to her preparation, acknowledging that it wasn’t every day due to her busy schedule, particularly during the winter season and during Ramadan.

How much did preparing for the exam cost you? Is it worth it?

Despite the expense, she firmly believes that the preparation cost is insignificant compared to the value of achieving her dream. She emphasizes that the amount invested is worthwhile, as pursuing her license was a cherished goal.

Do you have a daily study routine? (a.) If yes, what is your daily routine, especially the specific time you study? (b.) If not, how did you manage your time, especially for reviewing?

Yes, every day I read how many pages of my materials. I didn’t waste even a few minutes. Before Ramadan, I studied before I slept at midnight, and I woke up. During Ramadan, I slept very late, almost morning. At 5 am, I studied until 6 am, then took a nap because I needed to wake up at 8 am on school days. On weekends, I used 2 hours for studying, and while doing household chores, I listened to videos.

How did you balance your work and review? How did you manage your time?

She utilized every available moment efficiently, avoiding any wasted time. While working, she maximized her time by listening to review videos.

How did the SPLE affect your time with family and work?

Acknowledging the difficulty of studying when fatigued and having a busy schedule, she faced challenges in managing limited time for social media. However, she remained focused on what was essential, ensuring a balanced approach.

Did you have any strategies in studying for the exam that helped you understand your notes better?

Striving to understand the material thoroughly, she turned to Google when faced with challenging concepts, ensuring a comprehensive understanding.

What difficulties did you face in preparing for the exam?

As an OFW, managing time was a significant challenge due to her employer’s demands. To improve her memory, she repeatedly read and understood the provided drills, enhancing her comprehension.

How stressed were you in preparing for the exam? How did you manage your stress?

Experiencing significant stress, particularly due to family problems, she coped by holding on and relying on prayer. Trusting that her dedicated study efforts would pay off during the exam helped her navigate stressful moments.

Have you procrastinated on your review? How did you manage procrastination? How did you motivate yourself?

Avoiding procrastination, she emphasized the personal goal of passing the LET exam, staying motivated by limiting social media use and ensuring time for loved ones.

How important is preparing for the SPLE (or other exams)? Can you say that you are well prepared? How so?

Highlighting the significance of preparation, especially for exams like the SPLE, she felt well-prepared due to her belief in herself, consistent prayers, and the trust that her hard work would yield positive results.

How did you act during the exam? What were your thoughts during the exam?

Remaining calm during the exam, she drew on her experience as a repeater, expressing confidence in her ability to pass.

Where did you gain the strength that helped you pass the exam?

Her strength came from the motivation to bring happiness to her aging mother and to support her family financially through a teaching career.

Did you search for and use guides and tips in your preparation? How effective were they?

She did not rely on external guides and tips, placing her trust in prayer as her guiding force.

How did passing the exam benefit you in terms of your work, your life, your family, and yourself?

Passing the exam will allow me to transition from my OFW job to a professional teacher, potentially making my daily life less physically demanding. It will also give me the opportunity to support my family financially. Personally, I have gained a valuable license and the pride that comes with it, which no one can take away.

This interview provides a detailed account of Moneth S. Macatubac’s journey to passing the board exam, offering insights into the challenges and motivations that led to her success.