Written by the Center for Counseling and Student Development (CCSD)
“Exploring, Building, and Transitioning: UB Career Pathing Activity Prepares Students for Future Success”
The University of Baguio Center for Counseling and Student Development (UB-CCSD) conducted the Career Pathing Activity on September 6, 2025 via Zoom, under the theme “Subscribed to the CCSD L-Series 2.0: Learning to Know.” The activity aimed to guide students across different year levels (first, second, and third year) in exploring career opportunities, developing key competencies, and preparing for future career transitions.
Session 1: 1st Year Students – Introduction to Career Exploration and Establishing Strong Foundations
The first session was delivered by Mr. Tsude B. De Vera from the University of the Cordilleras, who introduced the freshmen to a college survival toolkit to help them navigate the transition from high school to college life. He emphasized the value of laying strong foundations early on through self-assessment, realistic goal-setting, and openness to growth opportunities. By sharing practical strategies for adjustment and success, Mr. De Vera inspired students to approach their academic journey with resilience, adaptability, and a clear sense of purpose.
Session 2: 2nd Year Students – Building Career Competencies
The second session was led by Ms. Gabrielle Ann Yvonne E. Rocha, a UB alumna and Human Resource professional at Universal Leaf, who discussed the different 21st-century skills and core career competencies essential for success in today’s fast-evolving workplace. She highlighted the realities of the 21st-century workplace, where adaptability, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving are indispensable. Ms. Rocha further emphasized the importance of making informed career decisions through the 3 E’s: Explore broadly, Evaluate honestly, and Evolve continuously, inspiring students to be intentional, resilient, and forward-looking in their academic and professional pursuits.
Session 3: 3rd Year Students – Career Readiness and Transition
The third session was facilitated by Mr. Fern Emmanuel De Castro, a Lead Petroleum Engineer, who shared his own work experiences as a way to guide students in preparing for their careers. He discussed career readiness, internship preparation, and professional networking, highlighting that beyond building connections and gaining experience, students must also ensure that they themselves are ready, and have the right mindset and attitude to face real-world challenges. He also shared the realities of work, such as being away from family, exploring new places, and adjusting to work environments, giving students a glimpse of both the opportunities and sacrifices that come with professional life. His talk encouraged students to prepare both their skills and personal outlook as they move closer to entering the workplace.
The Career Pathing Activity served as a valuable platform for UB students to gain guidance tailored to their academic year level, equipping them with self-awareness, essential competencies, and a readiness to face the real world. Through this initiative, the UB-CCSD reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the holistic growth of every UBian. As the workplace continues to evolve, students are empowered to rise above challenges, embrace opportunities, and confidently carve their own paths toward success.
