09/08/2024
𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝐁𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐤𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐨𝐟𝐟 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐤 𝐓𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐰 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒
The Biological Sciences Department of the Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS) at Far Eastern University - Manila (FEU) together with the IAS Student Council (IAS SC) and the FEU Biological Science Society (BioSoc) welcomed Biology freshmen students during the plenary and program orientation as part of the Annual Freshmen Orientation week, ‘Tatak Tamaraw’, on August 7, Wednesday.
The session took place at the Engineering Building (ENB) Mini Auditorium which was attended by a number of Biology freshmen. It commenced with the Philippine National Anthem and a multi-faith prayer. It was then followed by a special message from the university president, Juan Miguel R. Montinola.Montinola encouraged the freshmen to prioritize learning, excel in their fields, and develop a strong network within the FEU community.
The dean of IAS, Mr. Diego Abad, also gave its message to the Biology freshmen emphasizing the three key values of IAS that follow the letters of the institute which are being inclusive, adaptive, and socially responsive.
“First and foremost an IAS student is inclusive. Inclusive means to be able to accept, accept other people, or be accepting, but in order for you to be accepting, you also need to be understanding…Next, an IAS student is adaptive...So you’ll definitely face a lot of challenges, but you have to remember that all these challenges you will face,…you have to be able to stay on track, be brave, [and] be courageous,” Abad expressed.
“Finally, an IAS student is socially responsive…You’re lucky that you’re able to, whether you’re on scholarship or not, you’re able to enroll in a more productive university in the metro and in the entire country, but not everyone has the same opportunity. So it is our occupation to be able to give back to the community,” Abad added.
Subsequent to this, students received an overview of the university policies, the FEU vision and mission, and core values. A detailed explanation of the student code of conduct, grading system, and general education courses.
Dr. Dulce Marie Nisperos, the Department Chair of the Biological Sciences Department, also gave a message to the Biology students advising them to take one step at a time in their college journey. She also gave a comprehensive session about the Biology program covering its requirements, research opportunities, and future career paths for the students.
Highlights of the orientation were also the introduction of the new 2024 curriculum of the Biology program in all tracks, as well as changes in their Physical Education aspect on their enrolled curriculum which is now the Physical Activity Towards Health and Fitness (PATHFit) which replaced the controversial Wellness and Recreation Program (WRP) of the university from its previous curriculum.
An electrifying dance performance from the IAS Dance Company (IAS DCOY) and a captivating singing performance by IAS Sessionistas were featured for the freshmen to enliven the program.
Presentations from IAS SC and BioSoc, offering insights and advice to incoming freshmen students, were also given to the freshmen. The session concluded with the singing of the FEU Hymn.
After the orientation, Biology freshmen students shared their experiences from the orientation and expressed their anticipation for the upcoming Tatak Tamaraw activities this week.
“For my experience, personally, I found it very fun and enjoyable. I also enjoyed how they were able to keep it light and friendly, especially as a new student here in FEU Manila.” A freshman shared
“Nakaka excite po yung welcome fest and yung mga artist na mag peperform. Also, masaya rin po since makikita na rin po namin yung ibang mga freshie.” another freshman said, anticipating the upcoming Welcome Fest.
Aside from the plenary and program orientation, other activities enjoyed by the tamaraw freshmen this for the Tatak Tamaraw including the campus tour held on August 7, Tam Challenge held on August 8, and the Welcome Fest Concert held on August 9, where FEU's homegrown artists perform alongside other anticipated performers to welcome the freshmen.
Written by: Raphael Frutas
