Senior high school can be a confusing time for students since they are pressured to make several major life decisions, like choosing a future career and education, while undergoing significant personal and social changes. To help students manage the overwhelm and guide them towards academic success, Mapúa University hosted its annual Mapúa Cardinal Summit, an immersive pre-college event.
Using the theme "Be Built for the Future," the Cardinal Summit enabled learners to appreciate the University's courses and programs in order for them to assess how each aligned with their strengths and interests. It gave prospective students a glimpse into university life by exposing them to the campus culture, chatting with Mapúa topnotchers, professors, and students, and observing the state-of-the-art facilities and campus grounds.
More than the typical campus tour, the one-day affair provided prospective students from Mapúa's partner high schools a chance to observe why Mapúa has a century-long reputation of being one of the country's leading higher education institutions (HEIs). The event also empowered learners to explore fields of study while gauging the skills and disciplines they would need to thrive in college and build towards promising future careers.
Cardinal Summit bridges the gap between senior high school and college so students can make informed decisions about their future. It also supports Mapúa’s partner schools in guiding their students through program selection and preparation for higher education.
"The event encourages students to see themselves not just as future college students, but as future innovators, builders, and leaders. Emphasizing these values early on helps them understand that education at Mapúa goes beyond academics; it's about building individuals who will lead with purpose, think creatively, and make a positive impact on society," said Amber Gonzales, Mapúa University's Head of Marketing and Admissions.
She further explained how the Summit gave prospective students a preview of the kind of transformative education that Mapúa offers—one that cultivates creativity, curiosity, and ingenuity.
This is the third year that the University has organized the event. This year, the event expanded to include ten partner high schools along with more student participants with their respective guidance counselors.
The attendees participated in interactive activities such as manipulating engineering tools, pop quizzes, playing student-developed games, and other sub events that allowed them to experience the kind of rigorous, innovative education that Mapúa is known for. They also enjoyed the campus tour highlighting the technologically advanced classrooms, advanced learning tools and resources, and information booths.
They also joined lectures and discussions led by notable alumni and students. Among which included Engr. Ericson Dimaunahan of the University’s Institute for Digital Learning, who shared about Mapúa's progressive approach in education, microcredentials, and various digital tools; Engr. John Furiscal, a BS Civil Engineering graduate who earned 2nd Place in the April 2024 Civil Engineers Licensure Examination, and Engr. Mark Kennedy Bantugon, an MS Materials Science and Engineering student, James Dyson 2021 National Winner, and inventor of the award-winning Pili Seal.
Simultaneously, guidance counselors from the partner schools attended a talk on "Collaborating with Parents and Families to Support Students' Mental Health" to enrich their knowledge in addressing students' mental health challenges.
The various activities made the Cardinal Summit engaging and insightful for participants. Karen Cruz, RPm, Senior High School Guidance Associate of Pateros Catholic School Senior High School, said they were particularly impressed by Mapúa's approach to learning and commitment to integrating new technologies to create a dynamic learning environment to empower students.
More than that, she cited how impactful the pre-college conference was to students, guidance counselors, and partner schools.
"The activities at the Cardinal Summit ignited a passion for pursuing chosen career paths in college. They also fostered a sense of community, showcasing the power of collaboration in achieving shared goals. The insightful discussions highlighted the importance of perseverance and belief in oneself, emphasizing that hard work and dedication lead to remarkable achievements," said Cruz.
She then emphasized how attendees were inspired by the institution's commitment to excellence and dedication towards student success, and at the same time, grateful for Mapúa's support to partner schools.
The Cardinal Summit is just one of many upcoming in-campus and immersive activities that the leading engineering and technological university will provide to partner high schools in the future. The University is currently planning other interactive events using actual digital and technical classroom tools and mentorship opportunities.
To learn more about Mapúa courses and program offerings, click https://bit.ly/ask-us-at-mapua
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