UST Chem acquaints student chemists in Orientation-GA
Written by: Agatha Rei Gomez and Morris Tan
The UST College of Science Department of Chemistry, in collaboration with the UST Chemical Society (ChemSoc), held the annual BS Chemistry Orientation and General Assembly (GA) at the Education Auditorium on September 13.
With the theme “EMBERacing Elements: A WADE to Chemical Bonds,” the event gathered new and returning Thomasian student chemists to present plans and updates with the program offered by the department.
Department of Chemistry Chair Assoc. Prof. Alan Rodelle Salcedo, PhD led the BS Chemistry Orientation where he outlined the program’s current curriculum, intended outcomes, academic policies, and laboratory protocols. His talk touched on career opportunities and project proposals, and then introduced the faculty members of the department.
Salcedo further highlighted the ongoing scholarship opportunities for student chemists, including the Periodic Table Fundraisers Inc. (PTFI) Scholarship and an alumnus-sponsored scholarship by Mr. Rudy Chua.
The General Assembly followed the orientation, beginning with the introduction of the ChemSoc Executive Board and adviser for the current academic year, Mr. Kent Ceasar Gervacio, MSc.
During the GA, ChemSoc External Vice President Miguel Christian Guce presented the society’s flagship projects, activities, and initiatives, summarizing the organization’s proposed operational plan for the academic year.
ChemSoc President Zeus Cruz also introduced proposed amendments to the Articles of Association, discussing updates to the society’s guidelines and regulations.
The GA featured performances from Thomasian student chemists Lorainne Oquendo and Ionixx. ChemSoc also facilitated games for the event’s attendees.
In his closing remarks, Department Chair Salcedo wished students success in the future. “I’m seriously praying that all of you will succeed in your respective careers… Marami naman kayong pwedeng puntahan [after] you finish your degree,” he said.
“I hope [that] after your stay in UST, you will come back. Welcome kayo [because] once you are a member of the Department of Chemistry, you will always be part of the department,” Salcedo concluded.
