The start of a new academic year is akin to creating a fresh playlist – filled with new tracks, promising discoveries, and endless possibilities. The CASS Building is currently humming with this vibrant energy, as students embark on a new chapter in their educational journeys. The "CASStify" theme has infused the building with a contagious enthusiasm, transforming it into a dynamic space where creativity and collaboration thrive.
Kicking off Panaghiusa Day 1 on August 12, the lobby of the new CASS Building was transformed into a bustling expo of ideas. A diverse array of booths filled the space, each a testament to the students' ingenuity and passion. From selling various products to showcasing captivating artistic displays inspired by their goals and aspirations, the booths highlighted the multifaceted talents of the student body. The atmosphere was electric as students connected, sharing their entrepreneurial spirit and inspiring their peers.
Starting with the Sociological Society, Sittie Hafsah Tomas, a fourth-year student, shared how their business idea emerged from the financial challenges of their final year. Rather than asking for money, they decided to grow their funds through their venture. “Among goal jud diri is to fund-raising to provide for our PSS Presentation puhon sa October kay mag present man pud mi sa among thesis so that’s why costly kaayo siya but dako kaayo na privilege ang mag present for the PSS,” she explained. The venture, their first business experience, has shown them the impact of entrepreneurship on their lives and the lives of those around them. They chose to sell cookies and polvoron to offer a dopamine boost to their customers. “I’m inviting you all to please come here at the new CASS Building and see not just our booth but also the other booths here. Daghan kaayo products na pwede ninyo ma-enjoy and makita diri,” she urged.
For Psychology Society, Ethan Josh Roa, a third-year BA Psychology student, explained that their booth was inspired by their Opening Week theme, “PSYCHenomenon,” which draws inspiration from Chappell Roan’s hit song “Femininomenon”. He outlined three main goals: showcasing what Psychology offers freshmen with brochures and faculty information, selling pins and books with proceeds benefiting Psychology students, and distributing Psychosocial Hotline cards across the university. “Visit our booth, help a psyche out, and help others out,” he encouraged.
The Literature, Language, and Culture Society, chaired by Schwarzdyle Zamoras, a third-year BA ELS student, highlighted the cultural and literary inspirations behind their booth. Featuring Maranao decorations, traditional clothing, and a selection of books from their BA LCS and BA ELS programs, their booth also showcased the Linguazette, their publication. The goal is to engage freshmen and encourage them to consider joining. “Visit our booth, the LILACS booth. So, nice pud ni siya na exposure kay nag renew ang name from ABEO to LILACS,” she noted.
The KAPILAS-Bayan booth, led by Clariza Jane Ovillo, a fourth-year BA Panitikan student, emphasized the importance of celebrating the national language during August. They aligned their booth’s theme with “Wikang Filipino: Wikang Mapagpalaya,” aiming to showcase the beauty of language studies, especially to the freshmen in their department. “Hangad namin na mai-showcase lalo na sa mga freshmen ng aming departamento ang kagandahan sa pag-aaral ng wika, na hindi lamang limitado sa Filipino ngunit pati na rin sa mga rehiyonal na wikang ginagamit sa iba't ibang panig ng bansa,” she stated. Their booth displayed works by renowned authors, posters of exemplary performances, and encouraged students to display their handicrafts. Interactive trivia activities were also prepared to engage freshmen, helping them learn more about KAPILAS-Bayan and the Departamento ng Filipino at Panitikan.
The Political Science Society, Sittie Hafidah Capal, a third-year student and year-level representative, focused on showcasing small businesses of their members. The booth’s design allowed for easy viewing of their products. The initiative aimed to support young entrepreneurs and demonstrate that Political Science students excel beyond the classroom. They believe that social media plays a crucial role in encouraging more students to visit their booth. Recognizing that not all students from MSU-IIT, particularly freshmen, are aware of the booths and the products available, they aim to reach a wider audience by spreading the word and sharing engaging content on different social media platforms. “Also, on a personal note, I believe we can give giveaways or discounts when it's almost the end of displaying in our booth!” she added.
For the Historical Society, Casan Maruhom, third-year student, shared that their booth was inspired by Mindanao’s ethnic arts and textiles. The booth displays some of the historical landmarks across Mindanao. The ultimate goal of their booth is to promote the ethnic textiles of Mindanao and also aim to promote the lesser-known historical landmarks of Mindanao, particularly from Northern Mindanao. They plan to make the booth interactive to attract more visitors and ensure they gain information simply by visiting. “So, as they interact with the booth, with us, we impart worthy information to them and they also learn from the booth with some historical knowledge,” he concluded.
The Junior’s Philosophers Guild, represented by Akrisha Grace Hangka, a third-year student, drew great inspiration from the rich legacy of philosophy—particularly the splendor of the curious Ancient Greek era—which has profoundly shaped human civilization. As ceremonial as human inquiry is, they donned curtains and blue-themed designs to celebrate how far philosophy has carried them through time. Their goal was to connect IITians with the beauty of philosophy and encourage them to tap into their love for wisdom—the excitement of pondering about life. Students can participate in a quiz box, take photos with a Greek-inspired photo booth, watch recordings of their society’s growth on TV, and mingle with their passionate pilosopos. “Perhaps you may love philosophy too,” she said. The JPG booth promises more fun with trivia games and deep discussions with the philosophy students. She also mentioned, “Zealous artists will also showcase their works for purchase in the booth, and the department merch will be on full display. Visit us sometime!”
Alongside with the seven society booths, ABEL, a youth-led initiative dedicated to the fortification of senior rights and elderly care, set up their booth as well. Hannah Valerie Acama, a second-year BS Philosophy student and the Project Manager, shared, “When we first knew that the Executive Council actually allocated a space for us, what we thought was, we wanted our booth, not referring to it as a booth, but as an information desk, because in a nutshell, Project ABEL is a bodying project initiative.” They aimed to make their space interactive with a strong emphasis on information. Their booth features pages from their first newsletter, pamphlets, and infographics. While there was no specific inspiration behind the layout, they chose to showcase the ABEL branding, which includes shades of green. What they focused on more is informing visitors about how they can volunteer and support the initiative. The goal of their booth is to communicate their message and project initiative; they welcome support, volunteers, donations, and collaborations with other organizations at IIT. Also, the overall goal of Project ABEL remains aligned with their vision and mission statement, and they hope to make an impact in that space and specific area. “Hopefully if they have time, we are here in the old CASS Lobby, and they can know more about the initiative,” she said. “We always believe in the power of the community and it resonates with Project ABEL. It’s more than just the financial needs; we really capitalize on what we have and that is our people who were passionate behind the project. I am very much happy that we have established a line of volunteers.”
The booths will remain open until Friday, August 16, offering a chance to everyone to explore the wealth of ideas and opportunities presented. Whether you're eager to support a local venture, delve into the world of philosophy, or celebrate the richness of cultural studies, there’s a track for everyone to discover. This final stretch is an opportunity not just to observe, but to actively participate, contribute, and tune in to the evolving mix of student life at CASS. Your involvement and support can make a lasting impact on the ongoing success and growth of these student-led initiatives.
As we move forward into this new academic year, let the spirit of “CASStify” inspire us all. Just like a perfectly curated playlist, may the connections made and the ideas shared continue to drive us towards new heights, fostering a community where creativity shines and every individual’s potential is realized. The energy and camaraderie witnessed in the CASS Building are a powerful reminder that, together, we can achieve great things and make a meaningful difference.
About the Author
Michel Angelique A. Ferolino
Meet Michel Angelique A. Ferolino, a BA Sociology student and the Feature Head of CASSayuran. With a childhood steeped in journalism, she is no stranger to the art of storytelling. Her notable achievements speak volumes; in high school, she transitioned effortlessly into feature writing, showcasing her versatility and unwavering passion for the written word. She views her role as a valuable contribution to the publication and a means of personal growth. Join her in this exciting adventure of words and stories, where each narrative resonates far beyond the page.
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