Two thousand and seven hundred thirty incoming first-year students, returnees, transferees and continuing students went through a half-day orientation activity in six batches – morning and afternoon on August 8, 9, and 10 at the University Convention Center.
The seminar orientation was organized by the Guidance and Counseling Center (GCC) Unit led by Mr. Romualdo A. Tolentino, Registered Guidance Counselor (RGC) and head of GCC Unit.
Dr. Judith D. Intong, Vice President for Academic Affairs, said in her inspirational message that CMU treats the students as valued visitors.
“We [CMU] would like to impress upon our visitors that CMU has policies and rules,” Dr. Intong added. She also highlighted that CMU wanted the students to know the mission, vision, and core values which help the students to succeed in their chosen field.
The GCC unit has designed the seminar orientation to assist the university in providing an environment for better development and evaluation of the students’ psycho-social, personal and academic growth processes. Generally, it extends a warm welcome to the newcomers and informs them of the university rules and regulations.
In an interview with Ms. Mary Grace B. Pacatang, RGC and Guidance Coordinator II, she asserted that the activity aimed to assist individual’s orientation to self, others as well as on the nature and expectations of university life.
“It provides them [students] the opportunity to make initial acquaintances and establish friendships among their peers,” Ms. Pacatang added.
The GCC unit is under the supervision of the University Office of Student Affairs (OSA) headed by Dr. Leo G. Labrador, OSA Director.
In the orientation, Dr. Labrador expounds the Student Affairs Services and Guidelines for student conduct and discipline. He also stressed out that OSA is the administrative arm of the university in every program intended for the student welfare.
“We aimed for your [students] holistic development… we are developing you not only academically but all aspect of development,” Dr. Labrador added.
Dr. Jose M. Obedencio Jr., University Registrar, talked about the university academic policies. He explained the consequences of not performing well academically like drop-outs, failing grades, and academic status, among others.
Some parents also graced the orientation activity, and CMU Bidlisiw group showcased their hip-hop and folk dance intermission number. The program ended with the giving of certificates of participation. (MJ Talisay)