Captured by Shauna San and Stephen Xie
HCHS hosts college admissions and career talks for students
by Audrey Wong and Luke Sim
Grade 10, 11, and 12 students participated in “Launchpad: Charting Your Course”, the three-day college and career event conducted by the Guidance Office from October 19 to 21.
The event featured career talks held in the Chiong Phai Hun Theater Hall and college talks held in the Library and the Student Center.
Career Talks
The first day started with Captain Sahl Onglatco, a Hope Christian High School (HCHS) alumnus, sharing his experiences as a serial entrepreneur. He encouraged the HCHS students to embrace learning by doing and to never stop believing in who they can become.
“Don’t judge your future based on where you are today,” he noted.
Similar stories were shared by the rest of the speakers. Incoming Underbar Associate Jillian Chua, Licensed Occupational Therapist Joselle Grace Teh-Wee, Strategic Communication Manager Nina Ojerio, and Head of Change Management Abbie Arroyo also discussed the importance of open-mindedness when facing unexpected opportunities and challenges.
“It’s easy to learn a skill, but your mindset and behavior will set you apart,” Ms. Arroyo said.
On the second day, the speakers highlighted changes and shifting career paths. George Tan shared his experiences as a computer engineer turned entrepreneur, while Engr. Gary Chan of the Toastmasters group discussed his transformation from a shy student to a confident and effective public speaker. Licensed Psychologist Dr. Mary Jane Valero then discussed the relevance of psychology in human resources and the importance of the youth’s mental health as they face the pressure of making serious life decisions.
“Your future is bigger than your first choice,” she stated.
DENR Coastal Resources & Foreshore Management Chief Justin Albert De Ramos talked about the emerging opportunities in environmental science and the value of communication and management skills in a changing work landscape. Lorraine Ong Chua, a web developer, delivered the event’s final career talk and shared how she relates to the students’ uncertainties about their futures.
“You don’t have to be naturally gifted to succeed—take the first step and have a teachable heart,” she remarked.
Career Talks
College Talks
Various college representatives shared their program offerings, admissions details, and scholarship information. The college talks featured De La Salle University, Ateneo de Manila University, International Students Connect, Information and Communications Technology Academy, San Beda University, and Far Eastern University on the first day. The following day, the University of Santo Tomas, Southville International School and Colleges, the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, St. Paul University, Mapua University, Enderun Colleges, and the Trinity University of Asia also discussed their respective admission processes.
College Talks
Wrapping up “Launchpad,” the Preschool Gym housed a college fair. Aside from the colleges that gave talks, the University of the East, Life College, Centro Escolar University, and other schools also put up booths. The students were split into separate batches and visited the booths to learn about the program offerings and admissions details of these schools. Several colleges also held raffles for merchandise items such as water bottles, shirts, and ballpens.
College Fair