CTE Graduate School Conducts Orientation Focused on Student Success and Well-being

 

The Graduate School successfully conducted its Orientation Program, designed to welcome incoming students and provide them with a comprehensive overview of the academic expectations, support systems, and institutional commitments of the College of Teacher Education. The activity formed part of the institution’s continuing efforts to uphold high-quality graduate education and ensure that learners are adequately prepared to navigate their academic journey. This initiative demonstrates the school’s responsiveness to student needs, aligning with PAASCU’s emphasis on well-structured student services and academic guidance.

The program commenced with the registration period followed by preliminaries. This orderly start highlighted the staff’s preparedness and the event’s smooth coordination, reflecting the institution’s operational efficiency. The welcoming address delivered by Dr. Arnel R. Madrazo, Chair of the Graduate School, established the tone for the orientation by emphasizing the role of graduate studies in shaping professional growth, academic integrity, and ethical practice. His message underscored the Graduate School’s core values and its commitment to maintaining academic excellence.

The formal Orientation Session was facilitated by the Program Coordinator for MAED Social Studies Dr. Arayana F. Kunting. The session covered essential topics including an overview of CTE Graduate Programs, academic policies, and the introduction to graduate-level research. Notably, the orientation also integrated information on artificial intelligence (AI), ethics, and the Journal of Education and Language Studies (JELS), showcasing the institution’s forward-looking approach and its alignment with current academic and technological advancements.

The presentation further elaborated on student support services such as library access, IT support, and the Graduate School Association (GSA). This segment ensured that learners gain clear awareness of available institutional resources—an important indicator of student-centered services. By orienting students on the Chronicle Publication and co-curricular activities, the program highlighted the institution’s commitment to fostering holistic development and research engagement among graduate students.

An open forum and sharing session followed, encouraging active dialogue between program coordinators and students. This exchange provided an opportunity for participants to clarify academic concerns and better understand institutional processes. The interactive portion of the program reflects the Graduate School's culture of open communication and its commitment to addressing student needs—an area highly valued in AACUP's evaluation of student services and governance.

The second part of the program focused on the topic “Achieving Work-Study-Life Balance.” This session was led by Dr. Fini Joy P. Buenafe, Director of the Guidance and Counseling Center. Her discussion provided practical strategies for managing academic requirements alongside personal and professional responsibilities—a crucial support mechanism for graduate students, many of whom are working professionals. This initiative aligns with the institution’s goal of promoting student well-being and retention.

The Guidance and Counseling Center continued with a session on Health and Counseling Services. This portion emphasized the institution’s commitment to mental health, wellness, and accessible counseling services. Addressing these areas showcases compliance with PAASCU standards concerning student welfare and the availability of responsive guidance services to support learners’ holistic success.

Overall, the orientation program successfully reinforced the Graduate School’s commitment to academic excellence, student support, and ethical practice. With clear presentations, organized flow, and meaningful discussions, the activity demonstrated the institution’s continuous efforts to enhance its educational services. The participation of key academic leaders and service units reflects a strong collaborative environment—an essential component of institutional quality. The event not only equipped students with foundational knowledge but also strengthened their sense of belonging in a supportive and academically driven community.