Filipinos Migrate Abroad to Study? Yes They Do.

A conversation with some friends abroad confirmed my suspicion. Filipinos, as soon as they obtain immigrant visas, work and study simultaneously. So, is the degree they got from Philippine universities not enough? It is, but studying abroad seems to open up more doors for them. If they can fit studying into their work days, why not?

One friend told me (take note, he has a masters degree in business ad from a prestigious school here) that it’s easy for Filipinos to study again because we, as a race, are into studying. I agree. Every middle class household here aims to put their kids through college, because a high school diploma here will not get you anywhere.

Another angle to this is the fact that most companies abroad cannot verify the credibility of Philippine schools immediately. With the possible exception of the University of the Philippines, a regular human resource manager would rather look through other resumes and curriculum vitae than search for your school online to check the reputation and standard of education. This means they will hire someone from a local school there rather than risk hiring someone from an “unknown” school.

I’m all about alma mater pride, but in this case (when a possible employment is on the line), I would have to agree with that last bit. What’s a few years of additional education in a foreign place if you can assure your family’s future with the degree you will secure for yourself. Plus, since we are a diligent race, studying again is easy. Of course, you only need to worry about getting the tuition fee payment.

Gone are the days when “further studies” were availed of only by the over-achievers, like a hobby. Nowadays, it’s almost like a necessity to study again to improve the chances of landing a better job. Note to all friends from texas, some technical schools and courses in Texas are relatively easy to obtain, so if you’re into studying again, go for it!