Lea Ysabel Q. Evangelista
Following the theme “Mapúa InteGREAT: Leading the Future of Education,” Mapúa University (MU) held this year’s FroSHS week to welcome the freshmen and Grade 11 students from August 17 to 21 through various live-streaming applications.
Last August 17, the University commenced the virtual opening ceremony via Facebook Live. The program included testimonies and speeches from recognized speakers, as well as contests for the employees and students.
During his opening remarks, MU President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Reynaldo B. Vea talked about the advancements in technology adopted by the school in preparation for this digital term. “While we may arguably have the best online education system in the country at the moment, we continuously strive to improve it as a matter of principle,” he shared.
MU Alumni Jeremy Macrohon, Engr. John Megryan Samartino, Celina Mae Medina, Verrick Sta. Ana, as well as current Mapúan McCoy de Leon then shared their experiences and advice to the new batch of Mapúans.
Reporter-turned-pilot Steve Dailisan also made a special appearance to impart his thoughts about the new normal, how to plan, and how to be hopeful during these trying times.
“‘Pag nagsikap ka, ‘pag nagtiyaga ka, and if you continue to persevere and believe that there’s hope, mayroon at mayroong magandang mangyayari,” Dailisan imparted.
An orientation regarding the school policies, department services, and online learning tools was also held through the same social media platform. Assistant Vice President - Head for Campus Management and Services Margarita V. Camacho talked about campus development and maintenance services, while Head of Health Services Dr. Julius B. Bonifacio briefed about the medical and dental services available on campus.
As for the payment methods besides PayMaya, Tan replied that students can channel their payments through InstaPay or bank transfers. He added that the payment instructions are posted on the University’s social media accounts and official website.
Moreover, Director for Student Advising and Counseling Arlene C. Macatuggal and Coordinator for the Center of Student Advising Ellen Aubrey Z. Respicio discussed the Student Advising and Counseling department and how can it be of service to the students.
Director for International Career and Program Engr. Rosette Eira E. Camus followed by sharing about the international career and exchange programs offered by the University along with the partner schools and companies involved. Prefect of Student Discipline Teem P. Torres laid down the rules stated in the student handbook and the policies on social media and academic integrity. Lastly, Mr. Dante J. Sauquillo, the Director for the Office of Student Affairs, informed the students about the different activities and extra-curriculars students can participate in.
The following day, the Council of Presidents organized “MU101: Introduction to the Mapúan Life” via Microsoft Teams and Zoom. In it, each department and school held simultaneous seminars discussing the Mapúan campus life.
Last August 19, the Council of Organizations conducted an orientation to introduce all the institutional and general organizations in the University via Facebook Live and Zoom, while the Central Student Council hosted a TikTok Challenge wherein the participants submitted either a dance routine or skit using different locations inside the campus as their video background. From all the entries, Marts Mesia, Precious Antonio, and Janwin Adap secured the first to third place, respectively; while the Most Liked in Social Media award was given to Antonio for garnering the highest number of reactions on Facebook.
The different student organizations and departments were also given an opportunity to organize webinars and orientations that involves the student organizations’ field of interests, matters about the adjustment on the new normal, implementation of online classes amidst the pandemic, and the Mapúan life.
With the COVID-19 pandemic still ongoing, the University reassures that they will continue to make the situation as comfortable and adaptable as possible for the students, paving the way for the future of education.
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