In an effort to guide first-year students through the early stages of their university life, the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) held its annual College Life Symposium on September 3, 2025 via Zoom.
Guided by the theme “The Art of Weaving College Life: Resilient, Balanced, and Connected,” the Office of Guidance and Counseling (OGC), together with the Organization of Student Peer Facilitators (OSPF) spearheaded the event to support freshmen and promote the importance of building resilience, maintaining balance, and creating meaningful connections.
The symposium showcased the support services available for CASS students, highlighting the value of mental health, peer connections, and academic preparedness. Student peer facilitators also shared practical advice on navigating the transition to college, assuring the freshmen of a community ready to support them along the way.
CASS Dean Dr. Marie Joy Banawa welcomed the first-years with a straightforward reminder about setting clear intentions for their academic journey.
“I keep on reminding you to know your goal. What is your goal, what is your purpose, why are you coming to IIT? We are talking about your future,” she stressed.
She also assured the students of the college’s support, while underlining accountability: “CASS is very willing to assist you all; [however], walang personalan, trabaho lang. If you pass, you pass; if you fail, you fail.”
The program also featured talks from guest speakers Ms. Tessaly Saquin, COE Guidance Counselor, and Mr. Christian Jose Trasportes, RPm, who focused on the importance of knowing one’s purpose, balancing time, adopting appropriate coping strategies, and developing healthy relationships.
They reminded the freshmen that setting clear goals, managing responsibilities, caring for their well-being, and building supportive connections are key foundations for a successful college life.
Closing the event, CASS Guidance Counselor, Mr. Michael Alain Mamauag, RPm, urged the freshmen to see college life beyond exams and deadlines, emphasizing the significance of caring for one’s mental health, nurturing relationships, and trusting their ability to overcome struggles.
“Remember, this symposium is a reminder that you are not alone in your journey. The Office of Guidance and Counselling, along with the IIT community, is always here to support you,” he assured.
Written by Bea Faye Eumague
Proofread by Andrea Ross Sedero and Fame Orong
Guided by the theme “The Art of Weaving College Life: Resilient, Balanced, and Connected,” the Office of Guidance and Counseling (OGC), together with the Organization of Student Peer Facilitators (OSPF) spearheaded the event to support freshmen and promote the importance of building resilience, maintaining balance, and creating meaningful connections.
The symposium showcased the support services available for CASS students, highlighting the value of mental health, peer connections, and academic preparedness. Student peer facilitators also shared practical advice on navigating the transition to college, assuring the freshmen of a community ready to support them along the way.
CASS Dean Dr. Marie Joy Banawa welcomed the first-years with a straightforward reminder about setting clear intentions for their academic journey.
“I keep on reminding you to know your goal. What is your goal, what is your purpose, why are you coming to IIT? We are talking about your future,” she stressed.
She also assured the students of the college’s support, while underlining accountability: “CASS is very willing to assist you all; [however], walang personalan, trabaho lang. If you pass, you pass; if you fail, you fail.”
The program also featured talks from guest speakers Ms. Tessaly Saquin, COE Guidance Counselor, and Mr. Christian Jose Trasportes, RPm, who focused on the importance of knowing one’s purpose, balancing time, adopting appropriate coping strategies, and developing healthy relationships.
They reminded the freshmen that setting clear goals, managing responsibilities, caring for their well-being, and building supportive connections are key foundations for a successful college life.
Closing the event, CASS Guidance Counselor, Mr. Michael Alain Mamauag, RPm, urged the freshmen to see college life beyond exams and deadlines, emphasizing the significance of caring for one’s mental health, nurturing relationships, and trusting their ability to overcome struggles.
“Remember, this symposium is a reminder that you are not alone in your journey. The Office of Guidance and Counselling, along with the IIT community, is always here to support you,” he assured.
Written by Bea Faye Eumague
Proofread by Andrea Ross Sedero and Fame Orong
Layout by Ricardo Jose Gagno
Post a Comment
Any comments and feedbacks? Share us your thoughts!