Meet Rolando “Jay-r” Ragsag Jr., a Business Administration and Management student from the Philippines, whose journey to BYU-Hawaii was inspired by a missionary’s encouragement and a deep passion for leadership.
With a blend of experience in human resources, digital content management, and student leadership, Jay-r’s story is one of growth, perseverance, and a commitment to helping others succeed.
Table of Contents
- A Journey Fueled by Purpose
- Skills and Insights from BYU-Hawaii
- Bridging Digital Content and Human Resources
- Leadership Roles and Lessons Learned
- Fostering a Sense of Community
- A Vision for the Future
- Advice for Future Leaders
- A Journey of Personal and Professional Growth
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A Journey Fueled by Purpose
Jay-r’s path to BYU-Hawaii began in the New Zealand Wellington Mission, where a fellow missionary inspired him to apply. “BYU-Hawaii has a better education system, a great mission, and vision, and they believed I could succeed here,” he recalls. With a desire for a practical and flexible education, he chose to pursue Business Administration and Management, hoping to gain leadership skills and an understanding of how to work effectively with people.
Skills and Insights from BYU-Hawaii
At BYU-Hawaii, Jay-r has honed essential communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Group projects and presentations taught him the importance of collaboration, while time management and strategic thinking have become central to his academic success. “I’ve learned how to think strategically and manage my time better,” he shares.
Bridging Digital Content and Human Resources
Jay-r sees the synergy between digital content management and human resources as a key to his future career. “Both are about people—HR focuses on employee experience, while digital content connects with audiences,” he explains. His skills in digital marketing allow him to improve company culture and engage employees meaningfully through creative content.
Leadership Roles and Lessons Learned
In his roles at BYU-Hawaii as an HR Student Assistant, Recruiting Coordinator, and Digital Content Manager for the BYU Management Society, Jay-r has developed strong organizational skills and learned the importance of patience and effective communication. In his HR roles, he has faced challenges, such as addressing disappointed applicants, but has grown by approaching these situations with kindness and understanding. “Listening and explaining things kindly helped me grow in patience and communication,” he says.
Fostering a Sense of Community
As President of the Filipino Club, Jay-r has worked to create a sense of family and cultural pride among members. Organizing cultural events and fostering inclusivity, he has learned that leadership is about serving others. “I focused on being kind, understanding, and a good example, leading in a way that my Savior, Jesus Christ, would want me to,” he shares.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead to graduation in 2025, Jay-r is passionate about working in human resources, aiming to help organizations improve and make employees feel valued. “I hope to create a work environment where people feel motivated and appreciated,” he says. By leveraging his digital marketing and HR skills, Jay-r plans to implement programs that foster positive workplace cultures, from employee recognition campaigns to engaging onboarding experiences.
Advice for Future Leaders
Jay-r’s advice to incoming students is simple but powerful: “Try everything. Join clubs, take on leadership roles, and don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone.” He believes personal growth extends beyond the classroom through real-life experiences and challenges.
“If I could go back, I’d tell myself to believe more in my abilities and not be scared of making mistakes,” he reflects. “Every challenge is a chance to grow, and it’s okay not to be perfect. Lastly, remember that with God, nothing is impossible.”
A Journey of Personal and Professional Growth
Jay-r’s time at BYU-Hawaii has shaped him into a well-rounded individual, balancing his professional goals with personal values. “Success is not just about achieving goals but also about helping others succeed and making a positive impact,” he concludes.
Rolando “Jay-r” Ragsag Jr.’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, leadership, and a heart for service. As he continues to develop his skills at BYU-Hawaii, there’s no doubt he will make a significant impact in the business world and beyond.
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