Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” The first-ever virtual assembly by the USTP DOST-Sei Scholar’s Guild (UDSSG) showcased what the scholars can offer - both for the university and for their scholars alike. The virtual assembly was attended by many of the university’s DOST-Sei scholars where they united towards an intuitive program through Facebook Live as a platform held last November 28, 2020, to get to know one another and allow other students from the university to gain knowledge about the organization. The president presented the organization’s vision, mission, objective, goals, as well as its rules and regulations. It was also a fun-filled and welcoming virtual experience for everyone as the scholars showcased their wit and brilliance in the organization's quiz game. They were also given to share their insights, questions, and suggestions through an open forum.
Times may have changed, but the idea of students being the treasure of the nation remains the same. Scholars have always been known to be the ones who value not only their scholarship grants but their grades in general. They are also well-known for being enthusiastic individuals when doing their tasks. This is vital, especially for the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) scholars as they strive to gain and maintain their good grades - but they are more than that. As their moderator, Mrs. Merlyn Gonzales, integrated into her heartfelt welcome message, the scholars represent the word ‘I-C-E.’
I, the first letter, stands for the word ‘inspiration.’ Indeed, scholars have been inspirations throughout the year. Their determination shows and can be seen through the results of their hard work, all of which strengthens them to keep going and reach their dreams. The second letter, C, represents the word ‘collaboration,’ amidst the hardships that they face regarding their academic responsibilities, these scholars are known to back up each other and be each others’ support and motivation. The circle of scholars has been an outlet for each individual to show both strong perspectives and weaknesses. It is where concerns and emotions are heard but not invalidated. As their moderator has stated, there will be multiple times where they’ll feel that their best is not enough and perhaps, they’ll be disappointed, but being with others that they can relate with will make the burdens easier to carry. Hence, scholars are in the same boat, everyone struggles to balance through the big waves, but no one leaves anyone behind. Lastly, the letter E represents the word ‘excellence’ - as scholars, they aim for excellence - a word that is never lacking in every scholar. Shown through the results of their efforts, each of them wrestles for greatness, and their hard work pays off every time. Being able to show fragility and not give up despite the drawbacks and extreme pressure is power. Mrs. Gonzales then ended her statement by saying that the scholars all have the potential that needs to undergo unimaginable heat from their journey until all of them become the dazzling diamonds they are meant to be.
The virtual assembly has provided the UDSSG a platform to express itself. Although it is only a newly accredited student organization, it has proved their mark and promises to continue to work hard to aim their goals and provide the best service they can for their co-scholars. UDSSG’s virtual assembly has served as a good starting point for the organization’s great beginnings and new opportunities for DOST scholars as it sparked the true leadership that the scholars need.
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