Siquijor State Colleges Graduate School Orientation Inspires Students Toward Excellence

Siquijor State College once again came alive with the energy and aspirations of graduate school students, all eager to build a brighter future, as they attended the Graduate School Department Orientation held at the SSC Student Center on September 6, 2025.

The event commenced at 8:00 AM with a diagnostic examination for enrolled first-year Doctorate and Master’s students, held in Rooms 202 and 203 of the College of Education. The activity was facilitated and led by Dr. Rosalina E. Catid, Concurrent Dean of the Graduate School, together with Dr. Primo B. Aranas, Associate Dean of the Graduate School.

The orientation proper began at 3:00 PM, covering the institution’s Vision, Mission, Goals, graduate curriculum matters, academic policies, guidelines, and other important academic concerns. Several key faculty members from Siquijor State College were also present to share valuable insights. These included Dr. Roel D. Taroc, Vice President for PRIME; Dr. Dawn Iris Calibo-Senit, Research and Extension Director; Mrs. Philna S. Palongpalong, Extension Director; and Ms. Cheryl C. Bejec, School Librarian.

During the open forum, students’ questions were welcomed, making the session engaging and interactive. Filled with enthusiasm and hopeful aspirations, the graduate school students openly shared their thoughts about the program:

“It’s definitely a new experience for me though I earned my Master’s Degree in SSC back in 2017. We didn’t have that back and it felt good being acknowledged as a separate department than just an attachment to the COE way back. The orientation somehow directed us on where we are heading and be informed of the abcs in the grad/post grad study we’re in. Looking forward to a meaningful stay at SSC as a post-grad student.” shared by Marycris G. Paches, Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management student.

“Joining a Master’s in Information Technology (MIT) program can be a really strong move. But with the full enthusiasm and support of the deans, professors, faculty & staff of the graduate school, I am at peace knowing that they’ll be at my side as I conquer the challenges ahead to aim for my professional aspirations. And when you partner with a research-driven, technology-oriented, and people-centered high quality education institution, I believe that we are one step closer in reaching our goals.” reflected by Sarmiento, Xerxel Denise Sola, Master in Information Technology student.

“The orientation was good. It was full of inspirational messages from the key officials. The program was full of excitement. The flow of the program was also smooth and continuous. We are very excited as freshmen of the graduate, what may take us or lead us. It was indeed a very good event.”commented by Honey Lou Andos, Master in Business Administration student.

This momentous event reflects that the institution has already made significant headway in academic excellence. These newly graduate programs in SSC meet real-world profession demands for those Siquijodnons who aim to broaden their field of expertise and specialization. SSC under the visionary leadership of SUC President II, Dr. Steven J. Sumaylo proved that the future you dream of is not far away. It’s here in Siquijor State College!