Graduate School Socialization Strengthens Community and Academic Engagement

 

The College of Teacher Education Graduate School Association (CTE GSA) successfully organized its 2025 Socialization Program at the Marcian Convention Center in Zamboanga City. This activity was envisioned as a meaningful opportunity to build community among graduate students, strengthen collaboration, and foster a supportive academic environment. Socialization activities of this nature are essential in cultivating a sense of belonging and identity among learners, particularly those balancing professional responsibilities with advanced studies. The event thus became an avenue for engagement, recognition, and shared experiences that contribute to students’ holistic formation—an aspect valued in PAASCU’s standards on student services and institutional culture.

The initiative was spearheaded by the Graduate School Association Officers, under the leadership of GSA President Assoc. Prof. Junette Buslon, whose direction and commitment ensured the smooth and organized flow of the activity. The overall planning and coordination were overseen by the Event Chair, Dr. Mayridel Pasamata, whose systematic guidance provided the structural backbone of the program. Supporting the entire endeavor was Dr. Arnel Madrazo, who served as the intellectual anchor of the event, offering conceptual direction that shaped the program into a cohesive and meaningful experience. Their strong collaboration demonstrated effective student–faculty partnership, a hallmark of responsive and well-governed academic units.

The preparation for the socialization involved a series of consultations with graduate students across various programs. These consultations provided a platform for learners to express their preferences, expectations, and concerns regarding the event. The positive and enthusiastic response from the student body affirmed the relevance of the initiative. The decision to pursue the socialization was therefore grounded on participatory planning—a strategy reflective of the school’s commitment to transparent processes and shared governance. This collaborative spirit ensured that the event was not merely organized for students but developed with them.

The program opened with a solemn invocation that set a respectful and unified tone for the gathering. This was followed by welcome messages delivered by institutional leaders, reinforcing the importance of community-building within the Graduate School. These opening segments highlighted the administration’s recognition of student initiatives and their role in enriching the academic environment. Through these messages, the institution reaffirmed its commitment to supporting student-led activities that nurture leadership, creativity, and engagement.

A special segment of the program was devoted to the formal introduction and message of Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, President of Western Mindanao State University, who was represented by Dr. Shamir Kasim, Executive Assistant for Special Academic Concerns at the Office of the President and University Curriculum Chair. Her message became a defining moment of the event—one that deeply resonated with the graduate students and faculty present. Dr. Ochotorena’s message highlighted the transformative nature of graduate education, underscoring that pursuing advanced studies is not merely an academic requirement but a meaningful investment in one’s long-term growth as a professional in the academe.

Through Dr. Kasim’s delivery, she emphasized that the journey of graduate school is both a privilege and a responsibility—an opportunity to refine one’s skills, expand intellectual horizons, and contribute to the evolving demands of education. She reminded the students that their pursuit of a graduate degree places them among a community of emerging scholars and leaders who hold the potential to shape policy, influence pedagogical practices, and elevate the standards of Philippine education.

The President’s message also underscored the necessity of academic integrity, resilience, and reflective practice, noting that the challenges encountered in graduate studies are integral to professional maturity. She affirmed that the discipline required in research, the rigor of academic writing, and the commitment to ethical scholarship all serve as foundations for a meaningful and impactful career. Her message reassured the students that the university stands firmly behind them—providing not only instruction but also mentorship, support, and a learning environment that nurtures excellence.

This inspirational message, heartfelt and aspirational, emerged as one of the strongest highlights of the program. It reaffirmed to the students that their presence in the Graduate School is a testament to their determination to grow, lead, and contribute to the teaching profession with purpose and integrity. The message served as both motivation and affirmation, reminding them that their journey is part of a broader mission to serve communities, elevate educational practice, and uphold the values of Western Mindanao State University.

The intermission performances, presented by the Crimson Men and Music, brought vibrancy to the event and showcased the diverse talents within the university community. Their participation added a celebratory mood and reminded attendees that graduate education, while rigorous, thrives in environments that honor both scholarship and creativity.

The second part of the program featured the introduction of the distinguished panel of judges who were tasked with evaluating the event’s major competitions. Their presence underscored the commitment to fairness, transparency, and high standards—principles aligned with the institution’s academic values. The judges’ expertise added credibility to the competitions, particularly the much-anticipated Hollywood’s Best Choreography Dance Contest and Best Hollywood Attire, both of which showcased the creativity, confidence, and collaborative spirit of the participants.

These competitive segments injected enthusiasm, artistry, and friendly rivalry into the event, reminding students that academic life is best enriched when balanced with activities that foster creativity and teamwork. Such engagements are instrumental in building rapport among students, allowing them to express themselves beyond the confines of classroom discussions and scholarly work. The competitions strengthened the sense of unity among graduate students, proving that shared experiences—whether in celebration or competition—are vital components of a supportive academic community.

Adding to the emotional and communal significance of the program was the Faculty Spotlight segment. This portion offered a meaningful and respectful moment for students to acknowledge the faculty members who guide them through their academic journey. By highlighting their contributions, the segment reinforced the culture of appreciation within the Graduate School and strengthened the relational bond between faculty and students. Recognizing faculty members in this way affirmed the notion that learning is a shared endeavor, and that mentorship and academic support are central to the success of every graduate student.

The program concluded with the awarding of certificates of appreciation to the panel of judges, the announcement of winners, and the closing message delivered by one of the Masters of Ceremony. These final segments not only recognized excellence but also reinforced the values of participation and teamwork. Overall, the 2025 CTE GSA Socialization Program successfully met its objective of fostering unity, engagement, and collaboration among graduate students. The event reflected the Graduate School’s commitment to developing well-rounded scholars and demonstrated clear alignment with PAASCU requirements for responsive governance, student involvement, and the promotion of a supportive academic community.