Reya R. Rayala: 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 Reya R. Rayala

Reya R. Rayala, a triumphant TSOK (Teachers Specialists in Kuwait) board passer, shares her journey of preparing for and conquering the SPLE.

Here’s an up close and personal interview with Reya R. Rayala:

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

In response to the news of passing the board exam, Reya R. Rayala expresses a sense of overwhelming joy, considering the journey of risks, sacrifices, and separation from family as all worthwhile for the prized license.

Have you received such recognition before? Please give details.

Having received recognition in various forms, including positive feedback from customers, employee of the month, and school honors.

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

She holds a position in the entertainment industry in Kuwait, marking her first job as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) for about a year and a half.

Who do you attribute your success to?

Her success is attributed to her family, and the decision to take the board exam, despite the sacrifices, is motivated by the desire to provide them the best gift she can.

Who has inspired you to take up SPLE?

Inspired by her family, teachers, and friends, her family’s reaction to her passing the board exam is one of shock, given that she took the exam without informing them.

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

They were shocked because I didn’t tell anyone about it. I took an annual leave and took the exam without informing them. So when I told them I passed, they were like, “What exam? When did you take it?” 🥹😂

To what extent was TSOK helpful in your success story?

She acknowledges the substantial help from TSOK throughout her journey, providing information and support before and after the exam.

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

Looking ahead, her plan is to teach in Kuwait and save for a brighter future.

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

While the SPLE marks her first licensure exam, she envisions taking the criminology exam in the future.

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

DO NOT HESITATE. If no one believes in you, you yourself are enough. Remember that you’re not alone, God is with us. Whatever we pray for, give it to Him, and He will answer. 😇

How did you know about the SPLE?

She learned about the SPLE through a churchmate working in the embassy.

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

After saving enough, she wants to return to the Philippines and apply for a teaching positing.

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

Expecting the exam to be enjoyable due to DMW’s project and coordination with Mr. Carl Balita.

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

She found general education and major subjects relatively easy.

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?

Having attended CBRC for review, she emphasizes the positive impact of the lectures on her exam preparation.

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

In GenED and Majorship, most of the items I reviewed appeared. In ProfEd, not really because of the new curriculum, but before my first takes, I can still remember some related items in the exam.

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

She started from March 25 to April 17.

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

The cost of preparation amounted to approximately 100 KD, and she considers it a worthwhile investment.

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, I have 2 hours for GenEd, 4 hours for ProfEd and Majorship, and every time I’m vacant, I’m listening/watching on YouTube.

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

It’s hard, really, but if we tell ourselves that sacrificing is next to success, it will work.

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

The exam took a toll on her relationship with her family, she emphasized the feeling of being “pressured” to pass.

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

Yes, always look for the KEYWORDS. If you cannot understand the question, try to translate it into Tagalog; it will help your mind relax.

What difficulties did you face in preparing for the exam? How did you better remember complex terms and lessons? Did you improve your memory in any way?

While facing occasional challenges, including time zone differences during the review, she developed strategies such as focusing on keywords to better understand complex terms.

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

It was really stressful, but I remember CBRC always reminding us not to push our minds to study when we feel tired, stressed, and sleepy. Give time and a break to yourself.

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

During moments of stress, she motivated herself by reminding of family expectations and the desire to succeed, avoiding procrastination.

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

Yes, I can confidently say that I am well-prepared physically, emotionally, and spiritually. 🙏 I took the exam three times before passing it. During those times, I had many doubts, but the last time was different.

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

I shared my food with my fellow examinees, smiled, and always maintained a positive outlook. I even asked the TSOK Madam if I would attend the oath-taking here in Kuwait and considered the possibility of being one of the top-notchers. I was very positive, manifesting and claiming all the blessings. However, I can’t forget one thing—I fell asleep during the exam. 😂😂

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

The strength to pass the exam was derived from her family’s support, especially considering the challenges of being an OFW.

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

Utilizing guides and tips in her preparation, she found them highly effective in navigating the complexities of the exam.

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

a. Our kabayans were really happy for me because it was my first time taking the exam here in Kuwait.

b. I’m not scared anymore.

c. My family feels complete and proud now that I am a Licensed Professional Teacher.

d. I am incredibly proud of myself. 🥳