Life has a way of leading us to places we never expected. We may begin with a clear idea of where we want to go, but along the way, new opportunities can open paths that we never imagined. Sometimes, these changes lead us to discover new strengths, new purposes, and new ways to make a difference.
For Arnold Kitongan Tappa, the journey began with a calling to teach. He graduated with a Bachelor of Elementary Education major in English from Saint Louis College of Tuguegarao (SLCT) in 2002 as an academic scholar through the Cagayan Provincial Grantee and Scholarship Program. He later completed his Master of Arts in Teaching major in English at the University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao (USLT) in June 2022.
After college, Arnold pursued a career in teaching. He served as a Finance Instructor at one of the Universities in Tuguegarao City for a semester before joining the elementary department of USLT from 2003 to 2005. Later, he moved to Dasmariñas, Cavite, where he became an Officer-in-Charge of a private school while exploring opportunities in the Greater Manila Area.
Then, his career took a different direction.
In 2006, Mr. Tappa began his journey as an Overseas Filipino Worker in Saudi Arabia, serving as a Sales Cashier Supervisor at one of the country’s leading malls. In 2008, he ventured into office administration, a field different from teaching, which eventually led him to join Saudi Aramco.
Today, he serves as a Senior Planning & Support Analyst in the Operations Department at Yanbu Aramco Sinopec Refining Company Limited (YASREF) in Yanbu Al-Sinaiyah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he has worked since 2012. His role involves planning, coordination, analytical support, operational assistance, and continuous improvement.
He also serves as a Certified Mentor in Training and Development, sharing his knowledge, experiences, skills, and professional lessons with colleagues. Through his commitment and dedication, he has been recognized as one of the Best Mentors and has consistently served in the Network of Experts.
For Arnold, the career change did not mean a change in purpose. Reflecting on his professional journey, he shares, “I have learned that professional success is not defined solely by the degree/course we completed in college, a job title, years of service, or career progression. True success is also measured by the value we create for others. The knowledge we share, the people we mentor, the challenges we help overcome, and the positive influence we leave within our organization are equally meaningful achievements.”
His journey abroad has also strengthened his appreciation for the education and formation he received from USLT. “I am forever grateful and immensely proud to be a product of USLT, a university that shaped not only my knowledge and expertise, but also the person I have become,” he shares.
Looking back, he adds that his journey with USLT was “not simply about earning a degree” but also about “building character, developing confidence, embracing challenges, and gaining a foundation” that continues to guide him in his professional and personal life.
Now, Arnold passes his lessons on to students, fellow alumni, and those who dream of working abroad. He encourages students to take their education seriously, continue learning, and become competent and dependable professionals. For aspiring OFWs, he reminds them that working abroad comes with sacrifices, challenges, and responsibilities.
Above all, he shares, “Dream big. Prepare well. Work with purpose. Stay humble. Keep learning. And wherever life takes you, make sure you leave a positive mark.”
From a calling to teach to a different calling abroad, Arnold’s journey continues to be one of learning, contributing, mentoring, and inspiring. His story reminds us that while our paths may change, our purpose can continue to guide us toward meaningful work and service.
Congratulations, Sir Arnold, on the journey you have built through perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning. May you continue to inspire others through your work, experiences, and generosity in sharing what you have learned. May God bless you abundantly as you continue to grow, lead, and make a positive mark wherever your journey takes you.
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