To formally welcome the incoming first-year students for the academic year 2024-2025, Tarlac State University kicked off the four-day orientation themed "Newbie-ginnings: University Orientation for First Year Students" today (August 6) at the TSU Gymnasium.
The annual activity spearheaded by the Office of Student Affairs and Services and the Student Welfare Services aims to introduce the university's key officials and personnel along with their functions, inform the students of the rules and regulations, vision, mission, and core values of TSU, and familiarize them with the different offices in the university.
Incoming first-year students from the College of Education and College of Criminal Justice Education served as the first batch of students to participate in the program.
In her welcome remarks, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Agnes M. Macaraeg urged the students to instill the mantra "no retreat, no surrender" as TSU serves as the top performing school in criminology and the Center for Development in the CoEd.
Moreover, TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco inspired the students with his story as a struggling college student to support his family and studies – from being a tricycle driver, construction worker, and housekeeper to becoming an engineer.
“Hindi ko po tinignan ang hirap na magtrabaho, nakatingin lang po ako sa focus na magkaroon ng magandang kinabukasan…Tandaan niyo, ‘The very step of success is to be interested in it,’” Pres. Velasco said.
Meanwhile, in a message, Board of Regents member Hon. Dennis Norman T. Go highlighted the importance of academic freedom enshrined in the university.
"Education is not limited to the portals of the institution, but rather even outside, for you to develop and explore more kung ano man ang gusto ninyo gawin sa buhay. Dito sa TSU, you have the freedom to learn, explore, criticize, question, analyze, and contribute," Hon. Go said.
The orientation will run from August 6 to 9, held per batch, with the various deans and directors introducing their respective offices and colleges. (jlmm-OPA)
Photos by Eduardo F. Laxamana Jr.
