An Unexpected Path to Excellence

An Unexpected Path to Excellence

Success is often imagined as the result of years of careful planning, but for Dakila the path to becoming one of the country's top board passers began with an unexpected decision. Engineering was never the original plan. While preparing to pursue a different program, it was the example set by an older brother working in the engineering field that sparked a change of heart. What started as a last-minute decision gradually evolved into a purpose worth pursuing. "Truth be told, engineering wasn't my first choice. In fact, it was a last-minute decision," Dakila shared. "Seeing my brother working in the field of engineering made me realize that's what I wanted to be in the future."; Looking back, that seemingly simple decision became the first step toward a milestone that would one day define years of hard work and perseverance.

Like many engineering students, Dakila's university life was marked by both rewarding moments and demanding challenges. There were weeks when lectures, study sessions, and daily routines felt manageable, only to be followed by periods filled with quizzes, projects, laboratory work, and deadlines that tested both discipline and resilience. Amid the academic pressures, however, one constant source of encouragement remained—the people encountered along the way. Dedicated instructors provided guidance beyond the classroom, while friendships formed during college offered support through every challenge. "Those moments were demanding, but the wonderful instructors and the friends I've made along the way made everything bearable," Dakila recalled. "I'm incredibly thankful to Misamis University for those experiences." Those years became more than just preparation for a profession; they became a season of growth, perseverance, and discovering the value of community.

The greatest challenge came after graduation. Preparing for the licensure examination demanded months of relentless study, long hours of review, and the discipline to keep going despite exhaustion. There were moments when burnout seemed inevitable, but giving up was never an option. Behind every sleepless night was a simple yet powerful motivation—to make the family proud. "There were times that I was totally burned out due to the nonstop studying," Dakila admitted. "Those moments were exhausting, but I kept pushing forward because I wanted my family to be proud of me." Throughout the review period, the strong academic foundation built at Misamis University proved invaluable, complemented by the encouragement of mentors whose guidance helped transform years of learning into confidence on examination day.

Reflecting on the journey, Dakila believes that success is not measured by talent alone but by the willingness to remain committed when the road becomes difficult. Remembering the words of a review instructor—"A moment of struggle, a lifetime of glory" —Dakila hopes future board examinees will embrace the process with patience, discipline, and determination. Preparing for the board examination is never easy, but every sacrifice, every quiet struggle, and every moment of doubt eventually contributes to something far greater. The journey may take months or even years, but the reward makes every challenge worthwhile.

Today, Dakila's achievement represents more than earning a place among the nation's top board passers. It is a testament to perseverance, the unwavering support of family and friends, the dedication of mentors, and above all, faith in God's guidance throughout every step of the journey. "I believe my achievement was only possible through the people who supported me, so in a sense, I share this success with them," Dakila reflected. "Above all, I'm grateful to the Lord for the strength and guidance throughout my journey." Behind every topnotcher is a story shaped by unexpected beginnings, quiet sacrifices, and countless people who believed along the way. For Dakila, that story is a reminder that success is not simply about reaching the top—it is about embracing the journey that leads there.

Every topnotcher has a story—and this is Dakila

ENGR. DAKILA N. MARAGINOT
TOP 10 in November 2025 Civil Engineers Licensure Examination





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