JJ Javellana

Mechanical Engineer

Engineering Physics, B.S. '15

... Through the examples of my fellow classmates and my professors I learned how to serve others.

How did your program at Biola prepare you for your career?

The Engineering Physics program at Biola did such a phenomenal job at preparing me for my career. Doing the 3+2 program doesn't only open doors to pursue an Engineering Degree, it also opens doors to teaching opportunities. I already have been offered an adjunct professor position at Guam Community College. Also, the professors at Biola played an essential role in my further education. Professors like (but not limited to) Dr. Silzel and Dr. Chen were incredibly helpful in explaining theories and concepts, and when they weren't so clear during lectures and labs, they were willing to put in extra time to help us understand. Because of the efforts of people like them, I was well prepared moving on to UC Irvine to complete the 3+2 program.

What did you appreciate most about your time at Biola?

The Engineering Physics program at Biola was paramount for my career as a mechanical engineer. I also went to UC Irvine, but the training I got at Biola was extremely different. Both are great schools, but the students and professors at Biola made the difference for me. Throughout my time at Biola, my classmates and professors were extremely caring and helpful. It still amazes me how selfless some of my classmates were. They were consistently willing to help explain concepts and do homework together, and the professors were so easily available to assist in any questions. I am typically not as generous with my time, but through the examples of my fellow classmates and my professors I learned how to serve others. This has been highly essential in the workplace, because most people only want to better themselves and their own position. Biola has prepared me to be a living light and example to my colleagues in ways UCI would have never prepared me.

How did Biola equip you to be a more faithful follower of Jesus Christ?

This is probably the most important part about Biola. The professors and faculty emphasize the importance of faithfulness as a follower of Jesus Christ and ministry in the workplace. Biola is a great place to learn about yourself and ultimately about our Lord and Savior. My time at Biola helped teach me to love people and serve others. And not only do they just tell you to do it, they actually provide practical ways you can do this. I had a class with Dr. Bee called "Faith and Money" and it was probably one of the most helpful classes I've taken at Biola. Another class that helped me with my faith in relation to work and science is Dr. Bloom's "Integration Seminar: Christianity and Natural Science." Both are just examples of classes offered that prep you for life in the secular world. At Biola, I was constantly reminded that Christ is the center of it all, and what I do as my occupation and studies is just a way to glorify God.

What advice would you give to students considering your degree program?

JUST DO IT. It's hard. It's expensive. It's not for everyone. But it's worth it.