Dino Ubalde

How did you pick your career? Did you know all along?

I was 10 years old when my mother passed away, and I made a promise to her that I would complete my education, regardless of the circumstances. I was raised in a large family. I was of the opinion that the sole means of surviving in life was to complete college. I am a homebody, as we were previously adopted by our relative. I am feeling appreciative of my aunt, who adopted us. Consequently, I contributed to the domestic chores and became productive in any capacity I could at home. I possess an insatiable appetite for knowledge and am an avid reader. When we were in junior high school, our English instructor instructed us to write a research paper on our potential career paths. I found that investigation activity to be quite enjoyable. I recalled that moment as I worked on the assignment; I contemplated my own personality, interests, abilities, skills, and strengths and limitations. Upon reviewing several occupational handbooks, I came to the realization that I have a natural inclination toward the assisting professions, with a particular emphasis on nursing and psychology. I aspire to assist individuals, particularly students, in discovering the significance of their lives, as I have done. I aspire to become a clinical psychologist, as well as a psychometrician and counselor. I prayed to God for guidance in my chosen profession. My petitions were answered. He guided me in following my own calling or vocation, which will enable me to develop as a person by gaining a deeper understanding of myself and others.

What is the biggest challenge you had to overcome to get to where you are now professionally? How did you overcome it?

I may have been young at the time of composing my MA thesis, and I was overwhelmed by the writing process. I am uncertain as to where to begin and what to do. Eventually, I was able to complete it within one year, despite the fact that I needed to recover for nearly two years to determine what to do. I was astounded and remarked to myself, "That is effortless!" From time to time, we were advised to exercise caution and to take a break. I developed maturation in my mental, emotional, and physical well-being as a result of the gap in my studies. It was extremely exhausting during that period, and I ultimately determined that taking a vacation was the most advantageous course of action. I have successfully completed my Master of Arts degree, which is a testament to the compassionate nature of God. That marked the commencement of more significant opportunities in my professional life.

Did anyone ever oppose your career plans when you were young or push you in a direction you did not want to go?

Yes, my oldest brother. He told me, What? Are you going to take up BS Psychology? He said to me that I am a shy type of person. Deep in my heart, that's the reason why I wanted to improve my weaknesses and my personality. But, generally, it was my own commitment and determination to pursue a BS in Psychology and graduate school. In my College life, I am a working student as a student assistant in Psychological Association of the Philippines. I worked in my free time, especially during weekends. It was a big blessing for me to be working with psychologists. During that time, I already envisioned myself someday being like them as a psychometrician, counselor, and clinical psychologist. Now, I look back; improving oneself is a big decision if we want to flourish.

What is the one piece of career advice you wish someone gave you when you were younger?

While your parents are still alive, try your best and complete your education. It differs when your parents are still living. However, because I was young when my mother passed away, I used that as my main driving force to grow into a better person so that my mom and family can be happy. Whether little or significant, always appreciate the gifts you have received in life. Count all the people who have helped you to become the person you wish to be.

What is the most useful piece of career advice you got as a student, and who gave it to you?

Find your vocation or the source of your happiness. Happiness is not solely contingent upon financial resources. Locate employment that does not induce feelings of labor. That is the passion of one's occupation. Money is not the sole indicator of accomplishment. It is the manner in which you transformed the lives of others. I am personally satisfied and content with my work, despite the fact that the salary is not competitive with other professions, as a result of my experience.

When did you get your first Big Break? How did you get it? How did it go?

Following the completion of my Master of Arts in Psychology, I accepted a position as Program Chair of Psychology at a different college. Having worked as a psychometrician and a counselor for over a decade, I am well-equipped to handle the position, therefore I eagerly accepted it. Over the course of nearly eight years, my school adequately prepared us for greater responsibility. During my tenure, I oversaw the program's accreditation process, which culminated in Level 3 accreditation and ISO certification. Everything worked out. We succeeded!