This Way, That Way…

An IT Business Analyst by profession, Journalist at heart.

That is how I describe myself in all of my social media accounts. First, don’t get me wrong. I LOVE MY JOB!

An IT Business Analyst is someone who acts as a bridge between the business and technical people. He/she elicits, analyzes, communicates, and validates requirements for changes to business processes, policies, and information systems. What I love most about my job is that I do a lot of coordination and I am handling different types of projects that keeps me excited and motivated. The compensation and benefits in my current company is good, and of course, I have an AWESOME team! To further expand my knowledge and skills, I am currently enrolled in one of the graduate programs of UP Diliman with the degree in Masters in Technology Management (MTM). In a year or two (2), and if it is God’s will, I want to level up as an IT Project Manager.

REAL TALK: I chose IT because of practical reasons.

As the eldest in the family, I have developed a mindset that I should be helping my parents to bring us up from poverty. Indeed, the first step is to finish my studies to fulfill my mother’s prayer, “sana di na kayo magaya sa amin”. I thank the Lord for giving me wisdom that helped me become a consistent honor student (thus, looking for a scholarship has been easy). This was also the reason why Nanay sacrifices everything to send me to school even if it would mean being a helper of another family through accepting their laundry. My brother also has to stop from studying to give way for my studies.

“Walang pera sa MassCom.”

I was greatly influenced by campus journalism during elementary and high school days through representing our school in Press Conferences and writing in our school paper. I know that my skills are aligned to writing and public speaking, but my whole family was against it. Delikado, magastos, matagal ang return of investment (ROI). I felt discouraged and I wasn’t able to fight for what I wanted. I GAVE UP! In the first place, they are the one who will finance my studies.

I was not fit for Nursing and HRM which were in demand at that time. Scrolling at the available courses in the university, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) caught my attention because I remembered I won a computer quiz bee in Grade 6. “Puro computer lang yan”, I thought. Besides, that was also the course chosen by my best friend and she told me “in demand yan. Malaki sweldo dyan”. With a “higher salary” in mind that can help my family, I took the entrance exam and passed.

BSIT is an undergraduate program that deals with computers and technology. It includes computer software and software development, hardware, and networking. I was so naïve to think that this course has no Math subject. I was wrong, because we have lots! My college life was difficult as I needed to study different technical terms, interpret computer languages, and do programming. Ironically, I finished BSIT without a personal computer because we could not afford it. I usually work on my projects in computer shops.

When I was in my 3rd year, I knew being a programmer, which I thought was the only job we can apply for, will not work for me and so I became anxious. Fortunately, one of my seniors (whom I look up to) told me that being a Business Analyst would be appropriate for me. I was wrong again because as I progress, I discovered that there are lots of available jobs where I can choose as a BSIT student/graduate and that includes but not limited to the following:

1. Software Engineer – creates the designs that the programmer runs.
2. Web Developer – builds websites and ensures that these run smoothly (requires numerous skills like UI/UX, proficiency in web development languages like HTML and javascript.
3. Systems Engineer – deals with work processes, managing risks, and project management
4. Systems Administrator – installs, maintains, and supports company IT systems.
5. Desktop Support Engineer – Provides support to clients.
6. Database Administrator – installs, configures upgrades, administers, monitors, and maintains databases.
7. Business Analyst – responsible and accountable in the analysis of technical and economical business aspects.
8. IT Consultant – evaluates systems and research on stuff that no one has not discovered/implemented.
9. Cloud Architect – responsible for designing and building structures for storing data on cloud (new area of IT)
10. Network Engineer – designs and implements computer network.

I may not be able to discuss the salary range for each job as it varies depending on the kind of industry where you will work (local vs. international, Telecommunications industry, financial and banking services, etc.). For estimates, you may refer to Payscale.com Philippines for a more comprehensive analysis of compensation and benefits packages. My tip: Research for the company first before you do any coordination with them especially if it is an agency/consulting company. Aspire that you will be onboard “direct hire” and not contractual.

IT is a broad field. It drives the business and contributes to adding and bringing competitive advantage to the company. Brace yourself because being in line to it can be draining physically, emotionally, and mentally. I experienced lots of sleep deprivation and not going home for days since I was a student. But if you have passion for it, I can assure you that everything is worth it and you will learn a lot! Having an IT job is exciting and challenging because you make the impossible possible through using, developing, and implementing new technologies. You automate and get more things done!

However, please be informed that we don’t have a board exam. We only have certifications available for each chosen line of expertise (e.g. Business Analyst has Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)).

Hitting Two Birds in One Shot

As mentioned earlier, I am a Journalist by heart. To compensate for my frustration, I joined our college publication as a staff writer when I was in 1st year and it continued until my final year. From staff writer, I leveled up to News Editor to Managing Editor to Associate Editor and then to Editor-in-Chief. In fact, I was awarded Outstanding Campus Journalist during our graduation. Then, I promised to myself that I will be rendering my on-the-job training on a Television Network, and through God’s faithfulness, IT HAPPENED. Moreover, I’ve created a blog where I publish my masterpieces (visit https://fearlessnelsisa.com). I am also being invited to give a talk on writing in my Alma Mater, and to this magazine as a writer. Not only am I speaking in public, I am proclaiming the Word of the Lord by being a Lector/Commentator in church.

I have no regrets. Through this profession, I was able to fulfill my duties and responsibilities as the breadwinner. The Lord is in control and He knows what’s best for me. I already accepted the fact that I cannot get all the things that I want. I just have to trust God and synchronize my faith to His plan and schedule.

For my final note, I encourage you to discern carefully on what you really want in the future. Many graduates are having careers “mismatched” these days. Make your time, money, and efforts worth spending for. Listen. What is the desire of your heart? Know that the desires of your heart are what God desires for you too.

Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. – Psalm 37:4