STI Alum Breaks Code in Tech and Photography
Dialysis, Data, and DSLR: A Story of Strength and Style
Even if we start unsure, what’s meant for us will find us, ask Angelo Rivera. Back in 2012, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) degree from STI College Southwoods (now STI College Carmona).
But Information Technology (IT) was not Rivera’s choice; he had initially planned to pursue Civil Engineering. Inspired by his sister's determination, he started college with little clarity about his future in the Information Technology program.
Angelo Rivera with his classmates at STI College Southwoods (now STI College Carmona)
Angelo Rivera with his classmates at STI College Southwoods (now STI College Carmona)
“Tinake ko yung IT, hindi dahil gusto ko, pero dahil yung sister ko ang nag-refer sakin ‘nun (I studied IT, not because I wanted to, but because my sister referred me to it),” Rivera recalled in an interview. "I look up to my sister. She was also in the IT field and had many opportunities to travel abroad. That truly motivated me—to travel abroad," Rivera explained.
Despite the initial uncertainty, Rivera’s journey in IT began to take shape. By 2012, Rivera had graduated with a BSIT degree, emerging from school equipped with knowledge and a solid foundation.
Angelo's career journey with his workmates
Angelo's career journey with his workmates
Angelo's career journey with his workmates
Starting as an Associate Software Engineer, he quickly progressed to Senior Software Developer by 2015. Driven by a desire to explore the world, he leaped and moved abroad two years later.
This move landed him in his current role as a Senior Salesforce Developer at Monash University—one of Australia’s largest and most prestigious universities, consistently ranked among the world’s top 100.
When the Fight Gets Personal: Rivera's Battle Beyond Tech
Despite adapting to life abroad, Rivera’s health became the toughest challenge yet. In 2019, he was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease—a moment he recalls as feeling “like the end of the road.”
Losing his brother to the same condition made it even harder. But what followed showed his remarkable resilience and proved that he’s meant for more.
“I have dialysis three times a week, and I book clinic visits whenever my paperwork’s in order,” he shared. “Eventually, I adjusted, and I was able to continue working from home throughout my recovery.”
When asked how he stayed hopeful, Rivera replied, “I accepted that this wasn’t the end. This is something the Lord gave me—to inspire someone else, to do more and achieve more.”
From Hobby to Hustle: Rivera’s Creative Breakthrough
Excelling in the IT field while conquering chronic kidney disease is impressive in its own right, but he didn’t stop there. Angelo Rivera also pours his heart into the arts and photography.
Rivera admitted, “I've known I was creative since I was a kid because I loved making posters. But I thought that was my only talent.”
Scenery shots in Australia by Angelo Rivera
Scenery shots in Australia by Angelo Rivera
After moving to Australia, Rivera has developed a deep appreciation for the country’s cityscapes and architectural beauty.
He started exploring these structures with his iPhone, capturing scenes that not only sparked his creativity but also honed his photography skills.
Angelo Rivera's events and photography business
What started as a passion project soon became a business: APR Photography. Specializing in portraits, events, and weddings, Rivera’s clients range from major corporations to intimate gatherings.
Through this venture, he found a fulfilling balance between his IT role at Monash University and his creative pursuits.
Many students, like Angelo Rivera, start unsure of which path to take. To those eyeing a career in IT, he shares this encouragement: “Innovation is constant—it's fast-paced,” he said. “You won’t learn everything in school, but that’s where you build your foundation. Focus on that first, then build your skills on top of it. Eventually, you’ll get to wherever you aim to be.”
Reflecting on his journey, Rivera attributes much of his personal and professional growth to his time at STI and the connections that he built.
He notes, "Most of my life as a student was spent in the student council and academics. That’s where I learned time management, and it taught me how to communicate with people in a way that helps me achieve our goals."
Angelo Rivera on his workday and Salesforce Expo in Australia
Angelo Rivera on his workday and the Salesforce Expo in Australia
Aside from the networks that he built, Rivera also highlights how STI laid the foundation of his career.
"Being at STI built my confidence and independence. I learned that there's a lot of opportunities waiting for me. All I need to do is go through the journey and trust the process."
Angelo Rivera embodies STI’s goal of nurturing students beyond traditional academics. With its industry-driven education and hands-on training, STI College helps students not only earn a degree—but excel in real-world careers. Rivera’s success in IT, entrepreneurship, and even the creative arts is living proof of that mission.
