For many professionals, career growth means gaining expertise in a single field. For Raymond Rebugio, it meant expanding beyond technical skills to develop the business knowledge needed to grow in the workforce.

Originally from the Philippines, Raymond Rebugio arrived in the United States with an impressive technical background already in place. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Panpacific University North Philippines and built his credentials as a Registered Master Electrician and Aviation Maintenance Specialist.

These qualifications provided him with a strong foundation in engineering and technical systems. But as he looked toward the future of his career, he realized that type of expertise was not going to be enough to reach the leadership roles he hoped to pursue.

Today, Raymond is continuing his education at Computer Systems Institute (CSI), where he is enrolled in the Business Fundamentals Concentration in order to expand his professional opportunities, “I wanted to enhance my skills and knowledge about business,” he says. “I believe it will help me become more competitive in the job market.”

Becoming a Student in the US

Raymond’s journey to CSI began nearly two years ago when he first arrived in the United States. Initially, he was visiting family members who live in different parts of the country. During that time, relatives encouraged him to consider continuing his education in the U.S. “They asked me if I wanted to go to school here to enhance my skills and knowledge about business,” he explains.

With a strong technical background already established, adding business and management skills seemed like a natural next step. He enrolled at CSI in their flexible program for international students; the hybrid program. His online classes take place on Saturday and he attends in-person sessions on Sundays at the Lombard, Illinois campus. 

Once he completes the Business Fundamentals program this quarter, he will continue his studies even further by enrolling with a concentration in Organizational Administration. Like many students, Raymond is opting to take multiple programs to tailor his education to his career goals. 

The decision reflects his long-term strategy to build the skills that will complement his technical background. “This program will add to my knowledge in business and align with my experience in management roles,” he says.

At CSI, he has found a learning environment that supports that type of growth. “The best part about being a student at CSI is having friends from different countries and learning about their cultures,” he says. “We share ideas and experiences.”

Like many international students, Raymond’s journey has also included challenges.One of the most difficult adjustments came during his first winter in the United States,“The most challenging thing here as an international student was being homesick during winter,” he says.

Rather than allowing that feeling to slow him down, Raymond chose to stay productive. He spent time building additional skills and certifications while practicing computer applications such as Microsoft Office. Keeping a strong mindset became a key part of his personal growth during his time in the United States.

Experiencing Personal Growth

The discipline Raymond developed while studying also led to a significant personal transformation. Through a combination of exercise, a better diet, and consistent routines, he lost nearly 40 pounds while attending school. “I apply the discipline that I learned in CSI to myself,” he says.

Balancing school and personal life has been an important part of maintaining that structure. He manages his time carefully, prioritizing assignments and academic responsibilities before other activities. Once his work is complete, he enjoys relaxing and spending time doing things he enjoys, such as watching movies, playing games, or exploring different types of food in the area. “I love to eat and try other cuisines,” he says.

Although his immediate family members live in different states, their encouragement continues to motivate him. His aunt, a U.S. Navy veteran, lives in San Diego and remains a strong ally, “My family is very supportive,” he says.

As he continues progressing through his programs, Raymond remains focused on his goal of building a professional profile that combines technical expertise with strong business and leadership abilities. He hopes the knowledge he is gaining will help him become a strong candidate in the U.S. job market. 

For anyone considering attending CSI, Raymond offers practical advice based on his own experience, “First, know your goal as an international student,” he says. “Then manage your time and prioritize your work.”

One strategy that works well for him is applying a “First In, First Out” approach to assignments by completing tasks in the order they are received to prevent work from piling up. 

For Raymond, studying in the United States is part of a bigger transformation that combines reinvention, personal growth, and the pursuit of new opportunities. By adding business education to his technical background, he is preparing for the next phase of his career.

Many CSI students are looking to expand their knowledge to complement the fields where they’ve already studied and worked. If this sounds like something you’re interested in, contact us today to learn more.