By: Mervhi Lynne B. Lucio
With the theme “Balance, Thrive, Achieve – A Path to Academic and Professional Success,” UC’s Student Development and Welfare Office (SDWO) hosted a dynamic and insightful program for Student Assistants (SAs) on October 28 and 29, 2024 at the UC Auditorium. The event, designed to empower and support SAs in achieving academic and professional growth, was skillfully hosted by Ms. Mervhi Lynne B. Lucio, SSP Coordinator, with Ms. Jennifer P. Malayo, SDWO Officer, delivering inspiring opening remarks.
The State of Student Assistants
UC welcomed 263 SAs across its 22 departments this trimester with 247 remaining due to early resignations. These students juggle 36 working hours per week, balancing academic and professional commitments. Recognizing the difficulties many SAs face, Ms. Lucio aims to strengthen retention by providing valuable support programs such as seminars, workshops, and training. However, scheduling conflicts and workload demands continue undertaking both students and program coordinators.
In an interview with Ms. Lucio, she highlighted that despite the support, the final choice rests with each SA on whether to stay in the program until graduation. She also noted that professionalism and accountability, remain areas of growth for some students, making events like these essential for guiding them in their dual roles as students and assistants.
A Balancing Act
Setting motion of the forum, Ms. Daphne E. Zaparita, a Guidance Facilitator, highlighted the importance of balancing academic and work responsibilities focusing on stress management and well-being—a challenge familiar to many SAs. Ms. Zaparita framed the concept of “glimmers” as moments of happiness that counterbalance “triggers,” encouraging students to seek out these small joys to build resilience. She then led the audience in brief but engaging exercises that promoted stress awareness and self-resilience. These interactive activities highlighted the importance of collaboration and team support among SAs, providing students with a fresh perspective on managing the demands of their roles.
Setting Goals from tiny consistent bits
Following her, Ms. Marie Cynthia S. Dirige took the stage to delve into goal-setting and self-motivation. “A goal is subjective; it differs for everyone,” Ms. Dirige reminded the audience, reinforcing the notion that success is unique to each person’s ambitions. She also provided a roadmap for success through the SMART method—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals. In an engaging workshop, volunteers shared their short- and long-term goals, allowing the group to witness the diversity of ambitions and aspirations among their peers. This segment not only encouraged introspection but also connected students through their common journey of self-improvement and aspiration.
The session concluded with a brief practical guide to being a “Very Mindful, Very Demure” on professional conduct, highlighting key points in the SA contract that emphasize upholding integrity and professionalism. Ms. Dirige then led the SAs in reciting an SA’s oath, symbolizing their commitment to their roles and responsibilities within the university.
Looking Ahead: Improving SA Support
In feedback gathered after the event, participants expressed a desire for more team-building opportunities to strengthen bonds with their peers. While Ms. Lucio acknowledged allowance concerns and other operational issues like office assignments, she affirmed that current duty hours and requirements were generally manageable. Moreover, plans include expanding seminar, workshop, and training access for all SAs, although logistics, such as venue availability, remain a significant challenge for larger gatherings.
The “Balance, Thrive, Achieve” program concluded with certificate presentations to the facilitators and a group photo, marking another step forward in UC’s commitment to supporting SAs. Through this event, SAs left not only with practical strategies but also a sense of belonging, as they continue navigating their path to success.
