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From Self-Doubt to Top Scorer: How John Labrador Aced the Engineering Exam

A summa cum laude's struggle with confidence became his greatest strength. His story proves resilience and flexibility can rewrite even the toughest challenges.

The image shows a group of people standing in front of a whiteboard, clapping and celebrating. The...
The image shows a group of people standing in front of a whiteboard, clapping and celebrating. The woman in the center is holding a certificate with a medal around her neck, indicating that she has achieved success in the field of entrepreneurship. The background of the image is a wall, suggesting that the group is in a professional setting.

From Self-Doubt to Top Scorer: How John Labrador Aced the Engineering Exam

John Labrador has topped the electrical engineering licensure exam after years of self-doubt and hard work. His journey began with modest expectations but ended with the highest score in the country. Behind his achievement lies a shift in mindset, a flexible study approach, and strong support from loved ones and mentors. Labrador first graduated from the University of the Philippines Diliman as summa cum laude. He also received the Jose C. Torres Award for Excellence in Electrical Engineering. Despite his academic success, he struggled with confidence during his exam review, often questioning his ability to succeed.

Years earlier, he had admired an alumnus who topped the same exam. At the time, he casually mentioned wanting to follow in those footsteps. But as he prepared, he avoided setting high goals, fearing disappointment. Eventually, he embraced the ambition and adjusted his study habits. A rigid schedule proved too demanding, so he switched to a more adaptable routine. Instead of fixed hours, he focused on steady daily progress. His persistence paid off when he secured the top spot in the exam. Labrador later shared advice for future test-takers. He urged them to master core concepts, explore complex topics, and lean on their support networks. He also warned against comparing themselves to others, stressing that each journey is unique. Other high performers included Jude Noel Jarina of Cebu Institute of Technology-University, who ranked fourth with 93.30 percent. Mark Jhon Gera from Cebu Technological University-Tuburan Campus followed in fifth place, scoring 93.20 percent.

Labrador’s victory reflects his dedication to learning and the encouragement of those around him. His story shows how adapting study methods and overcoming self-doubt can lead to remarkable results. The exam’s top five now includes graduates from leading institutions across the Philippines.

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