Written by Christian Junio
The transition from senior high school to college can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for students entering technical fields like Information Technology, Computer Science, and Computer Engineering. Recognizing the importance of early guidance, a Freshmen Mentorship Program 2025 was held at FGB Hall with the theme “Ignite, Innovate, Integrate: Empowering Future Tech Leaders.” This initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 – Quality Education, which promotes accessible and inclusive learning opportunities, SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, which emphasizes the development of skills needed for employment, and SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which supports technological advancement and innovation in education. With 400+ participants across morning and afternoon sessions, the program successfully fostered a culture of mentorship, learning, and collaboration.
The mentorship program aimed to inspire and motivate freshmen, provide foundational knowledge in key technology areas, and foster a culture of self-learning and exploration. The program featured a welcome message from the Dean Dr. Ellen Halover, setting the tone for a day filled with learning and networking. One of the key highlights was the Alumni Testimonials, led by Ma’am Janine Javier, where former students shared insights into academic and career success. The “Real Talk from Mentors” panel discussion provided an open forum for senior students to discuss their experiences, challenges, and tips for thriving in the tech industry. These discussions helped freshmen understand the realities of their chosen field, giving them valuable insights into both academic and career paths.
A key component of the event was the breakout sessions, designed to provide students with hands-on exposure to different technological fields. Each session lasted 30 minutes, allowing students to rotate and explore multiple disciplines. In the Software Development and Artificial Intelligence track, students were introduced to mobile app development, artificial intelligence, web development, and database management. The Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking track provided insights into cybersecurity fundamentals, ethical hacking, and data privacy, equipping students with knowledge on protecting digital assets. The Embedded Systems track allowed students to engage with Arduino programming, circuits, robotics, and 3D printing, giving them firsthand experience with hardware innovations. These hands-on sessions bridged the gap between education and industry, providing students with practical skills that align with SDG 9 by fostering technological literacy and problem-solving abilities.
The success of the program was made possible through the dedication of senior student mentors, including Ron Leo Manangan, Christian Junio, Kyle Ivy Dumo, Genesis Velasco, and many others. Their commitment to mentoring younger students embodies SDG 4 by ensuring equitable learning opportunities for all. Moreover, by equipping students with industry-relevant skills, the program supports SDG 8, preparing them for high-demand careers in tech fields. The Freshmen Mentorship Program was more than just an orientation—it was a stepping stone toward innovation and career success. By providing students with technical knowledge, industry insights, and mentorship, the event laid the foundation for future leaders, entrepreneurs, and tech professionals.
With initiatives like these, the future of Information Technology, Computer Science, and Computer Engineering is brighter than ever. These freshmen are now ready to ignite their passion, innovate creative solutions, and integrate themselves into the world of technology, driving progress in education, employment, and industry development. The mentorship program successfully fostered an environment where learning, collaboration, and innovation go hand in hand, ensuring that students are well-equipped to navigate their academic journey and future careers.
