Among the twenty-four BYU–Hawaii Students of business management, accounting, and information systems who recently took the SAP test, twenty passed the examination and became certified professionals in systems, applications, and products in data processing. After a two-week course that lasted ten hours a day from June 11-22, their hard work ultimately paid off.
James D. Lee, a professor in the computer and information science department and the SAP adviser, shared his experience while teaching the SAP training course for the first time at BYU–Hawaii. He commented on the hard work and dedication shown by his students. "The great thing was they worked hard, but they helped each other. They would stay in the evening to help each other."
"Those who didn't pass were really close to passing," said Lee, adding that three students who didn't pass the first time have retaken it and have now passed.
SAP is an enterprise software system that companies use to manage many aspects of their business. It enables companies to run more effectively through its enterprise application software. Lee explained that he has undergone a series of studies and took the examination in Georgia last summer to be qualified as a teacher for the training course. He mentioned that there are five classes on campus that have significant SAP content. These classes are ACCT 356, IS 430, IS 435, IS 440 and IS 485.
Students who took the class paid a $500.00 fee, which is much cheaper than fees collected from other universities that offer the same course. On the tenth day of the two-week preparation, students take a certification professional exam. The national passing rate is said to be 70%.
Nilo J. Manalo, a senior in business management-supply chain track from the Philippines, shared the rewards he gained from taking the SAP class and exam. "I think the experience itself was already an advantage for me. Right now, I'm doing my internship in Ayala Land in the Philippines. I was assigned to work in the Supply Chain Division, and they are using SAP," said Manalo, "I was so happy when I found out, because I know I can use the things I've learned from the SAP courses and certification."
Potenciana Peralta, a senior in business management who is also from the Philippines, commented on the competitive advantage of being a SAP Certified Professional in a global perspective.
"I think one of the advantages of becoming SAP certified is that it gives you a greater probability of landing a good job," said Peralta. "Considering that more and more companies are migrating to SAP to meet their rising global competition, passing the TERP10 would be a plus for you."
Participants were also grateful for the experience and support by Professor Lee. Aruna Penugula, a senior in business management, also in the supply chain track from India, shared, "I think it is really a remarkable experience. I learned teamwork and [saw] the dedication of our professor."