Major Field Trip Travel Report

University of Southeastern Philippines

Bo. Obrero Campus, Davao City

TRAVEL REPORT

September 8-12, 2014

Seminar Overview

Field trip is one of the most awaited moments of our lives. It’s such a wonderful, memorable, fun yet a nice learning experience. We all have the chance to attend seminars and lectures on current topics and issues on Information and Information and Communication Technology as well as site visits and fieldtrips to different ICT enabled companies. It is not just ICT enabled companies but some of the largest IT companies such as Accenture, PLDT, IBM, Toshiba and Ideaspace. Not just that, we also have the chance to visit other universities like Ateneo de Manila University and University of the Philippines Diliman Campus. It is also a pleasure for us to hear different talks from different speakers in every company visit we had. It made me realize that all of us had different stories, talents, skills, gifts and abilities for us to excel. It made me realize that we are really awesome when it comes to technology innovation. PLDT Innolab, IBM and Toshiba are the companies that showed their abilities in technology innovation. Among the companies we visited, I really like IBM, they manufactures and markets computer hardware and software, and offers infrastructure, hosting and consulting services in areas ranging from mainframe computers to nanotechnology. Mr. Alexis Pantola or Sir Pong thought us about the new trend in the industry which is cloud computing. He tutors us about the Bluemix which is one of the cloud computing in the Philippines. Because of our trip I’ve experienced many first times. It’s my first time riding a plane, went to Metro Manila, and had shopping at MOA and other Malls like Tutuban, Divisoria and Trinoma.  I had seen the beauty of Tagaytay and the very nice view of BulkangTaal. And of course I had extreme and wonderful rides in Enchanted Kingdom.  I will never ever forget all of these experiences. I will treasurer these for the rest of my life. This is such a wonderful learning experience.

Day 1

September 8, first day of the trip, first day of the company visits. I am quite excited and I cannot wait to hear new stuffs and new learning’s. Learning is a never ending process; it is our main purpose why we spent thousands just to go to a far place like Manila. Accenture is the first company we visited; it is one of the world’s leading management consulting, technology services and outsourcing companies. I can say that Accenture is a good choice. We had a great speaker named Christian Sigenes; he’s an analytic manager. The talk was good; we had a lot of questions since his demo was a very familiar topic to us which is data visualization. One sad thing for this visit is we cannot take pictures with their company logo but still it’s a happy trip since we had a free snacks and freebies! Haha. After Accenture, we had our lunch at the Kenny Rogers Katipunan, Quezon City. It’s such a great lunch. After having our lunch, at 2pm we headed straight to IBM Ayala Technohub, Quezon City for our second company visit of the day. Since the office is not that big to accommodate all of us we had the trip by batch. Since I belong to the first batch, we had the chance to take pictures before the lecture proper. Mr. Alexis Pantola was our speaker and he’s the only person who accommodated us since he’s the only person in their office at that time. I was quite amazed because it is unusual for me. Sir Alexis tutors us how to use the Bluemix created by IBM. It was an amazing experience. After our batch, we wait for the second batch to finished their tour and while waiting we had our videoke in our bus. After IBM, we had our shopping in Trinoma. And after shopping, we checked in to our hotel which was Kabayan Hotel.

What I learned?

I learned the importance of priority, interest and developing your skills. Mr. Christian and Alexis taught us to know our interest, to discover our hidden talents and abilities, to develop our skills and to use them in the right way and in the right time. I am able to realize how important to be an Accenture member because of the benefits it offers to its members. Accenture partners with its employees in building their careers—investing their time and resources to help their employees grow professionally.

What I liked?

I liked how they welcomed us in their company with big smiles on their faces and enthusiasm on delivering their lectures to us. I liked the place because it is well organized and clean also. I liked the speakers because they know what they are talking about and was able to answer all the questions thrown to them.

What I didn’t like?

I just don’t like the idea that we can’t take pictures in Accenture with their company logo.

Day 2

September 9, second day of the trip. Today, we went to another great company which was PLDT Innolab and Ideaspace Foundation. I was excited since these two companies are two of the biggest IT companies we had chance to visit. We arrived early and registered ourselves at the front desk of the building. Cell phones and cameras were not allowed inside PLDT for security purposes to protect them from their rival companies. But it’s alright because we had our class picture courtesy of PLDT Innolab. INNOLAB stands for Innovation Laboratory and Telecommunications, Education Center of PLDT. We had our tour inside their company, and we were able to see the evolution of PLDT from its birth up to the age of transformation.  The one who welcomed us in PLDT is Ma’am Annie she is so accommodating and she shared to us the birth of PLDT, from where it started up to the day that they become one of the largest  Telecommunications Company in the Philippines. Sir Gino and the three interns from different universities tour us upstairs. They introduced us their residence solutions and enterprise solutions. Home solutions are DSL and the Fiber- Triple Play which you can communicate, get data; and you’ll be entertained since it has an IPTV. And for the enterprise solutions they introduced to us different PLDT products such as Sweet Spots for advertisement, Ecofax, SWUP stands for Shops Work Unplugged, Cosmo call which is a cloudbased, SIP Trunk, PolyCom for video conferencing and F.A.S.Track. Engineer Mel lectures us about Basics of Telecommunications. I was quite bored at that time since he has a mellow voice.  And I am really hungry at that time that’s why I don’t want to listen to his talks anymore. After the PLDT Innolab visit, we had our lunch at the bus since we’re running out of time for our next company and it was quite far and the heavy traffic awaits us. Ideaspace is such a wonderful and awesome company. It was one of my favorite. I never had notes when Ms. Goldy was speaking since I was really focused on listening to her. She encouraged all of us by sharing what they had and the experiences of people she know and they helped. We had our picture taking and tour around the office and one happier thing is we have a free t-shirts. The talked was cool. It was an eye-opener for me.

What I learned?

Among the speakers, Ms. Goldy is my favorite because she touched me and able to inspire me that if I want to become successful, I will be!  Just believe in yourself because if you don’t believe in yourself no one will. She opened my eyes that there’s no hard in accomplishing your goal. Don’t get left in the dark, start the light and shine!

What I liked?

I really like theIdeaspace and also the speaker. I also liked the products of PLDT Innolab since it was cool and awesome.

What I didn’t like?

I didn’t like the tour in the PLDT Innolab especially the latter part—the lecture part since it was boring and I was sleepy.

Day 3

September 10, third day of the trip. Today we had our Y4IT Conference for the whole day at the SMX Convention, Pasay City. It wasn’t hassle for us since we don’t need to travel anymore. I was quite excited since we will meet new faces, new students or even new friends from different schools and universities here in the Philippines. It is also our first time to attend a prestigious and the largest IT event of the year. We choose to attend the first day of the conference since it is a three-day event. As expected, there are a lot of IT professors and enthusiasts and most especially students attended the said event. Before entering the convention, we waited for how many minutes and fall into our line for us to enter the building. When we enter the venue, we grab our Y4IT bags since we paid for it. The room was so big and it was dark but still it was comfortable for us. Actually, most of my classmates were just sleeping after the talks of many speakers.  We take pictures and during the talks of some speakers we listen. After the morning session, we had our lunch at the Taste Asia, Sm Moa. Then we go back to the venue. During the afternoon session of the conference, we just take the exhibit outside the room while some of my classmates are still listening to some speakers. We also join Ate Iana for her interview about her paper presented.  After that, we went back to the room and wait till the event finished.

What I learned?

Here are some of my learning’s and realizations from some of the speakers I choose to listen:

v  Stop doing copy paste. Change it. Do things that are difficult.

v  Real programmers don’t use things they develop things.

v  Working hard is fun if you’re having fun.

v  Anyone can form a solution.

v  Dream high, play around and have fun!

v  Take the risk and never be afraid to fail.

v  The future belongs to those who dream.

v  Individuals don’t build companies…. Teams do!

v  Success is composed of good character, capability, commitment and credibility.

What I liked?

I like the venue it was so big and comfortable. I also like some of the speakers, they motivates and encourages me. They open my eyes and helped me realized things.

What I didn’t like?

I don’t like our spot since we are in the back we can’t concentrate. Also we can’t hear some of the speakers due to loud noise from our seatmates. I also don’t like the emcees, I found them boring.

Day 4

September 9, fourth day of the trip. This day is one of the most awaited days of the trip. I was so excited and I even pray to God that if possible there would be no rain. I’m pretty sure I am not just the one who was excited but also all of my classmates since we will have our pleasure trip and one company to visit. We went on a company to visit Toshiba in Canlubang, Laguna, one of the largest Storage Company in the world.  Surprisingly, we met some of our schoolmates from USEP who already worked in the company. The employees are very courteous that whenever we passed by they always greet us with a smile. Ms. Christine was the one who welcomed us and gave us an orientation about their company. It is on our company visit that I knew that the name “Toshiba” was derived from “Tokyo Shibaura” that’s why it’s now called Toshiba.

On our plant tour, the company is really strict when it comes to rules because before our visit they gave us ahead their plant tour rules that we must follow accordingly. They even provide us caps, shirts and shoecover that we must use inside the plant premises. When we had our plant, we were grouped by two so that we could have our tour in different ways in order to accommodate us all. It is very clean inside the plant and peaceful inside the plant that’s why I like it because it is a healthy environment.  We were able to see what machines do to process the production of the devices. All processes were done by machines and the employees are the ones who supervise it.

After our plant tour, we returned to the orientation room and our tour guides gave us some messages. Toshiba is the only company we visited today because we will have our Tagaytay trip after. We had our lunch in Max’s Restaurant and from there we can already see the view of Taal Volcano and of course, we had our picture taking with the Taal Volcano as our background. After lunch, is our trip to Tagaytay’s People’s Park in the Sky, but we have to walk to reach the top for us to see the beautiful view that only our nature could offer. We did not missed the chance to take some pictures as our souvenirs that we went to this place and able to see the beauty of nature. We only have 30 minutes in Tagaytay because we will be heading to Enchanted Kingdom. We are very excited because most of us would be the first time experience. We headed straight to the extreme rides because weonly have 2 hours for our EK experience since we arrived at 5pm and EK closes at 7pm. Our first ride was the Extreme Tower or we called it drop zero, without any doubt I tried that ride because I really want to experience it. I am so excited for the ride and I was not disappointed because it is awesome. We are excited and when will it stop and drop us without us knowing and so as we are being dropped, I can feel that my soul parted from my body and I can’t really explain the feeling. The drop is only 3 seconds but it was the best 3 seconds of my life so far. Our 2^ndride is Anchors Away, at first I thought it was boring and not that extreme but as it was starting to swing higher, I feel that my stomach goes up. Whooh! We were all shouting and I can see the funny faces of other students on the other side of the ship and how they reacted for the ride. 3^rd ride is the Space Shuttle and for me looking at it makes me want to back out but at the back of my mind, why should I? It would be an awesome experience for me and I would not do it alone. This ride gave me the nervous feeling I never had for the first two rides. As the ride is starting to go up, we were all nervous I even shout.  That was the best riding experience whooh! 4^th ride was Jungle Log jam and it was like a roller coaster ride but the difference is it is in the water. That was not so extreme for me since I already ride the space shuttle; I just enjoyed how I get wet with my friends. 5^th ride was Rio Grande, since we are already wet from the previous ride; we’d just continue the wet feeling with this ride. This ride is like riding on a boat. 6^th ride was the Disc Oh Magic, this ride was really awesome it keeps spinning for 3 minutes. I really enjoyed this ride. It was so cool. The last ride was the Flying Fiesta, this ride make me feel relaxed though it makes me feel dizzy. We would also like to ride the carousel but unfortunately we are running out of time sin it was already 6:30 pm and we should fix ourselves and get dry since we are wet. Unfortunately, my friend lost her phone when we are at the EK’s comfort room. So, when we get back to the bus, she almost cried and I accompanied her to go the EK’s information desk. We asked if there would be chances of someone surrendering her phone. But sad to hear, it was impossible to get her phone back. After our EK experience, we went to Tutuban for our dinner and for us to shop also.

What I learned?

I learned that manufacturing products is not that easy. It requires disciplined people to supervise and of course patience.  In manufacturing products, the manufacturing company should provide quality products to its consumers to gain trust and one way of assuring the durability of their products is to have the best people to supervise the processes of the products and to have high end materials such as machines for the processing and also to the parts they will use for the products.

What I liked?

In our plant tour visit in Toshiba, I actually like the discipline of everybody to abide the rules of the company because discipline is one of the values we need in order to meet our goals in life. I also like the strictness of the company to its employees.

What I didn’t like?

I just don’t like the thought that they don’t stop working except the New Year’s Day. I was quite sad for the employees since they don’t have time for their family they just keep working.

Day 5

September 10, fifth day of the trip. We checked out early at our hotel and departed early since we want to pass by Big Brother’s House and take pictures with it. We also passed by Ninoy Aquino’s house. After that, we headed straight to Ateneo de Manila University.  I was amazed because the university was so big and the facilities are great. We had the chance to see their gadgets and it was so cool. We had a chance to use their computers and I was amazed because it was so fast. And I was insecure because they can use facebook freely; it was not blocked not like ours. After the talks, we had the chance to tour their building and visit their souvenir shop. I was sad because I don’t have enough money to buy souvenirs since it was so expensive. After ADMU, we headed straight to University of the Philippines, Diliman Campus. We headed straight to the UP’s famous statue—oblation (I don’t know if this is the right term) then we take pictures and then had our lunch at UP’s canteen. We also buy souvenirs at their shops and I was happy because I buy one UP Diliman shirt. After lunch and buying souvenirs, we headed straight to the Computer Studies Building and had our tour. I was amazed because of the laboratories they had. It was seven laboratories and their laboratories were used for specific major or subject. I was also amazed for the students who presented their thesis even if they are unprepared. After UP, we had our visit at Resorts World Manila. I was amazed because it’s a wonderful place to visit. We’d take pictures and enjoy ourselves touring the place. After Resorts World Manila, we headed straight to Ninoy Aquino’s International Airport and ready to go home. Bye Manila! Hello again Davao! J

What I learned?

I learned that you should know what’s trendy nowadays for this kind of industry. I realized that in doing your research you should know you interest and the interest of other people. I noticed that Affective Computing is quite booming nowadays. I also learned that you should focus on just one thing. Stay focused what you want and what you need.

What I liked?

I really like the ADMU’s gadgets it was so cool. I also like the idea of UP that their laboratories were categorized according to major subjects.

What I didn’t like?

I enjoyed the tour so there’s nothing like I didn’t like.

APPENDIX

What can I recommend for the improvement of the advance seminar program of USEP?

I recommend that students should also choose Model A because there are a lot of things to learn and experience when it comes to technology in Manila since most of the largest IT Companies are located in Luzon. I would also recommend that they should visit companies in which they wish to visit when it comes to IT related issues. I suggest they should also visit Ideaspace because of how they motivate us and opened our eyes to discover and create new ideas. I would also recommend Maynilad as their travel agency because of the service they could offer. They arranged our itineraries best to suit our needs and the people in Maynilad were all nice and approachable. I recommend not to eat at tramway buffet since the food was not good.

My advice to those who will take their advance seminar program in the near future.

My advices to those who will take their advance seminar program in the near future is when they will decide on what Model they will choose especially if they will choose Model A which is in Luzon. They should also prepare a large amount of money to avoid problems on the preparation of the trip. They should also choose their set of officers which they know would be responsible in handling the class and would facilitate and work on the preparations for the trip and all of them should also cooperate for the success of their trip. They should also bear in their mind that this is for their learning and not just for fun.

Pictures:

Day 1

 Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Minor Field Trip Travel Report

University of Southeastern Philippines

Bo. Obrero Campus, Davao City

TRAVEL REPORT

Seminar Overview

Information and Communication Technology Companies here in Davao City are progressing.  Davao City is on its fastest development in terms of advancement, changes and technology because of these ICT Companies. One of these companies is the Concentrix-Synnex, which we had the chance to get to know more about this company since we conducted our minor field trip there. We had the opportunity to learn more about the field and to asked questions.   

               

Day 1

 Concentrix-Synnex is located at the Damosa, Davao City. It is August 27, 2014 when we had our minor field trip. We we’re quite excited since early in the morning we are already there. We waited for maybe an hour until we are accommodated. I was quite disappointed since they don’t follow the exact scheduled time. We are toured by batch and our batch was accompanied by Miss Quennie. She’s from the Human Resource (HR) Department. Their Company has a principle 3V’s; Visibility, Velocity and Value. Their Vision is to value through their investment in Innovative Technology Solution and people worldwide. The rooms she showed us are pretty nice since it is big. We we’re amazed by their facilities but I am not that interested about their company. She just talked more about what they have and all the incentives if you’re an employee of that company. When we get to their Server Room, she introduces us to Mr. Rav, one of the programmers of the company. Rav, talked about their networks and what type of database they are using. Their Department is called MIS which all the servers, networks and infrastructures are in there. He also said that their company has this department called ADG or their development group they handles the job of system analysis, quality assurance and development.

What I learned?

 I learned that in the real world not all thought by the school will be applied. I learned that you should go out of your shell or on your comfort zone. Try to explore and learn new things. Seek for more and desire for increase since learning never stops when you graduated.  

What I liked?

 I like the place and some of the people there. I also like their policies and principle. I like their environment and I like how they organized their company.

What I didn’t like?

 I didn’t like that they started to accommodate us late.

APPENDIX

What I recommend for the improvement of the advance seminar program of USEP?

 I recommend to visit to those really Information Communication Technology Companies, and to ensure that the students can learn more about the field not just about the company.

My advice to those who will take their advance seminar program in the near future.

 My advice for those who will take their advance seminar program in the near future is learn more, ask more and seek for more. Don’t just settle for what was given. Go outside of your comfort zone. Never be afraid to ask questions.

FTS Meeting 5 Reflection

Friday, August 29, we had our emergency meeting at the IC Lab1. I already know what is the agenda of the meeting since Sir Randy already said it to me earlier. I texted my classmates to come asap since it is a important matter. It broke my heart not just mine but all of us. Since there is a big possibility that our field trip will be cancelled. One of the reason why is because of that BSU incident and our university President Mr Perfecto Alibin withdraw all the approvals of Field Trips this year. All of us are disappointed with hearing that bad news but our class President, says that there's still a chance for us to continue our trip since the Region XI CHED members will be having there meeting regarding the field trips. 

FTS Meeting 6 Reflection

August 22, 2014. It was Friday afternoon, I am quite nervous that day because of the issue about our field trip. The cancellation of our field trip gives me a feeling of sadness. Our meeting was held on IC laboratory with the presence of Sir Randy. We discussed about our minor field trip to be held on Concentrix Damosa Davao City. We discussed about the time and place, what to wear and what to bring. We also discussed about the room assignments and the changes. Some of our classmates ask why some of us are in the kapsule. And Miss President Iana answered that the kapsule are just limited not all of us can avail the room. And not just that! Sir RSG also confirm and alarm us about what happened to the field trip of Bulacan State University where in seven students died unfortunately. He ask us if we are still willing to continue our trip even if this incident happened. And most of us say "YES!" with conviction. Of course, I also say yes with all my heart. I don't want to cancel our trip. Who would want to? Sir RSG ask us many times if ever we will change our minds. And then meeting adjourned.

My Journey to Inner Space (Interpersonal Skills Seminar Reflection)

                Interpersonal Skills are the life skills we used every day to communicate and interact with other people, individually and in groups.  According to Business Dictionary, interpersonal skill is the set of abilities enabling a person to interact positively and work effective with others.  According to a website specifically, investopedia.com explains interpersonal skills; the term “interpersonal skills” is somewhat of a misnomer, because it refers to character traits by an individual rather than skills that can be taught in a classroom. Within an organization, employees with good interpersonal skills are likely being more productive than those with poor interpersonal skills, because of their propensity to project a positive attitude and look for solutions to problems. Interpersonal skills are measures of how adept you are in interacting with others. Active listening is an interpersonal skill, as knows how to communicate to someone else that you respect him or her. When problems arise you use your interpersonal skills to resolve conflict with others.  People learn interpersonal skills by interacting with family members, going to school, and socializing with their peers. Healthy interpersonal skills reduce stress, resolve conflict, improve communication, enhance intimacy, increase understanding, and promote joy.

                The importance of interpersonal skill is very essential since it is how we deal with others.  Awareness of our own and others’ interpersonal skills can help us enormously in dealing with the work tasks we are responsible for. Since we will be having our field trip this coming September and we’re going to travel with different people coming from different classes, we should have our interpersonal skills seminar and team building activity. It is important for us to go through with this kind of seminar since it can help us to build our friendship and it will help us to get to know more each other. And just last July 21, we had our interpersonal skills seminar and team building activity with the theme of Journey to Inner Space: Key to Effective Interpersonal Relationship. The said seminar help the participants become more effective communicators at school or at work and in their personal lives. The program focuses on speaking, listening, sharing our ideas and experiences, empathy and building relationships. The program was intended for us to develop our interpersonal skills especially our communication skills. Our facilitator with the said event is Mrs. Emily Madrona she is the University of Southeastern Philippines Guidance and Testing Office (UGTO) director. The program should start at exactly 8:00 am but unfortunately we started 8:30 in the morning because of some technical problems.  The program started with an opening prayer and Lupang Hinirang. The emcee of the program was our class President Miss Iana Kristine Yu.  Our class Vice-President officially opened the program by her opening remarks. She said that we will enjoy the seminar and we need to cooperate in order to make the event successful. After her short and brief speech, Ma’am Madrona asked us to group ourselves into five. We count ourselves from one to five then I belong to group one. My group mates are Deannie, Mark, Charles Bryan, John Cedrick also known as JC, April, Joan, Jean and Edward. After grouping ourselves, Ma’am Madrona instructed us to choose a leader and to give a name to our group. After that, she also asked us to share our expectations for the seminar and contributions within the group and share it to the whole class. The name of our group is The Travellers since we will be having a journey within ourselves.  And fortunately, I am the leader of the group so I will be the one to represent our summarized expectations and contributions to the whole class. Our expectations are we will have fun; we will get to know more about each other; we will learn new things; we will build new friendships and we will have a closer bond. While our contributions are we will exert our efforts in any task Ma’am Madrona asks us to do; we will share our happiness, love and experiences and we will cooperate in any activity. After sharing expectations and contributions to the whole class, we post it at the back. After the expectations and contributions, we officially start the session one of the seminar. We remain in our group and Ma’am Madrona give each one us a paper clip. She instructed us to form our paper clips into an object that best describes us and then share it to our group mates. I formed my paper clip into a grass since grass is just in the ground, for me it is a form of humbleness, when the storm comes, it will just remain standing just like me whenever there are problems comes in my way I remain still and trust God. After sharing our formed paper clips, we put it together and formed into another shape or object. Our group decided to make it a bicycle since we are the travellers and we are on a journey. We choose our group mate namely JC to represent it to the whole class. After the session one, we had our break; we eat our snack since it is already ten o’clock in the morning. Fifteen minutes after the break, Ma’am Madrona shows us a Dinner Table. She shares the Dinner Table set-up of her family when she was still younger. After that, she instructed us to make our Dinner Table and share it to two people. I was quite emotional when I throwback my childhood days and draw our Dinner Table set-up. I can still remember the happy memories when I was a child. Jennifer Smith quoted, “Childhood memories were like airplane luggage; no matter how far you were traveling or how long you needed them to last, you were only ever allowed two bags. And while those bags might hold a few hazy recollections—a diner with a jukebox at the table, being pushed on a swing set, the way it felt to be picked up and spun around—it didn’t seem enough to last a whole lifetime.” After drawing our Dinner Table set-up, I share it with my two classmates named Princess and Angel. I cried because our situation today is not like my Dinner Table anymore. In my Dinner Table we are complete and happy family not like today, my father just died last May and we don’t eat meals together anymore. Moving on, father the emotional sharing of our childhood days, Ma’am Madrona asks few of our classmates to share their Dinner Table set-up to the class. Jean, share her Dinner Table set-up emotionally because she was crying while JC share his Dinner Table set-up cheerfully because he has a happy childhood days. After sharing our Dinner Table, Ma’am Madrona continues to share her life when she was still younger. I could really relate to her. She was boyish, rebel and unwanted when she is still younger; she was hooked to her bad influenced friends; she tried smoke, drinking alcohol and even drugs. I could relate to her since when I was in high school I used to be with my “barkadas” or bad influenced friends. I tried smoke and drinking alcohol and realized that it’s not good for me. It will bring no good to me. So when I was in my freshmen year here in this university, I stop doing those stupid things.  After the dinner table session, we had our lunch and we should be back at exactly one fifteen in the afternoon.  My classmates went out of the social hall and grab their lunch while me and my friend—Princess had our lunch at the social hall since we bring our “baon”. At exactly one in the afternoon, my classmates are back and we started our afternoon session which is the team building activities. We officers offered Ma’am Madrona that we are the one who will facilitate for this session since we prepare three games for the afternoon session. Since I am one of the class officers, I already knew what will be the games we will play. And the first game, which was my idea, is what we called Connect Me. The mechanics of the game is to connect the string to our group mates alternatively by entering the straw or plastic twine into our uniforms. The first group to finish connecting their selves by entering the twine into our uniforms will shout “We are Connected”. And they are the winners! It is a super-duper fun game that’s why I joined even though I am the one who prepared it. I just can’t really help myself since I want to experience that game also. The winners of that game is the group of Jai, they are the one who finished it faster than the other groups. Even though we’re not the one who finished it first, we really enjoyed the game and laugh till our stomach aches. (HAHA) The next game we played is what we called The War of the Fishes. Since it just needs six members per group, all of the officers are the facilitators of each group. We need to observe who make the goal first. Since the mechanics of the game is each group should guard their home or base as well as they should let their fish enter the base of their enemy or the other group by just blowing their paper fishes. Whoever finished it earlier will be the winner (Yey!). This game really makes me laugh because of our classmates who really tried their best to blow the fish in order to make the goal. And to think we just had our lunch, I could not imagine what the smell of their breath was (HAHA). Many of my classmates participated in the game make their complaints because of the bad smell of their breaths (LOL). The last game we played is what we called you belong with me. It is quite challenging since the mechanics of the game is each one of us should wear blind fold, we are grouped into five and each group has their own animal sounds. Each member of the group should find their group mates by just saying or speaking their animal sounds. And whoever completes their group first will be the winner. There are five animals in the game; pig, fox, cow, dog and cat. And I belong to the cow group.  It was very crowded since the area is just small and it was so noisy that’s why it becomes more challenging. And luckily our group wins because we have a good sense of hearing (Yey!). These games played a big role for me to familiarize and to get to know more about my classmates. I got the chance to mingle and interact with them. After playing the games, Ma’am Madrona settled us and discussed things about what we did. She said that our games are already team building activities though it was more into fun. After discussing few things about the tasks we did in our team building. We had our pledge of commitment. I promised to start knowing one’s story and listening to them. I promised to continue being approachable and friendly. And I promised to stop judging people and jumping quickly into conclusions. I shared it with Princess and Mark so that they can remind me of my commitments.  We ended our seminar by acknowledging Ma’am Madrona and giving her a Certificate of Appreciation and token. To sum up everything happened that day I could summarize all of my learning into a quote, “Appreciate those who loves you and surrounds you. Help those who need you. Forgive those who hurt you and judge you. Accept those different kinds of personalities of the people around you. Make yourself open to new possibilities, things and people. Do not be afraid of trying new things because learning has to be in a process. Try to take a risk and make mistakes. If you're not making mistakes, then you're not doing anything. I'm positive that a doer makes mistakes.”

FTS Meeting 5 Reflection

July 16, 2014 we had our fifth meeting. I was quite late since I am not told about the change of time. Well, we just discussed about the interpersonal skills seminars and the updates about the booking of tickets. Then, we discussed about the changes of our minor field trip and our new destination is on Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC). Meeting adjourned.

FTS Meeting 4 Reflection

Last Monday, we had our fourth FTS meeting. Our President, opened the meeting with the following agenda: Dates of Payment, Toshiba, Interpersonal Skills and Minor Field Trip. The new set of dates of payment is July 7-11 for 7,000, July 31- August 8 for 4,000, August 18-22 for 3,700 and September 1-5 for full payment. We also discussed about the shoe sizes for Toshiba and the problem about our minor field trip. We also tackled about the group assignments. After that, meeting adjourned.

Y4IT (FTS Paper 3)

Youth Congress on Information Technology formerly known as Philippine Youth Congress on Information Technology and commonly known as Y4IT. According to Wikipedia, it is an annual information technology event in the Philippines, organized by the UP System Information Technology Foundation (UP SITF). Aimed primarily at college students, professionals, educators, IT experts and enthusiasts, Y4iT is an enabling event for today's youth and aspires to recognize young Filipinos as key drivers in the dynamic IT industry. Since its launching, Y4iT has gone on to be at the forefront of information technology gathering events in the Philippines. Various relevant and exciting IT topics are presented and discussed. The event is co-organized by the Y4iT Volunteer Corps (YVC).

This semester, school year 2014-2015, I am currently enrolled on the most awaited subject of all students here in Institute of Computing. And this subject is what we called Field Trips and Seminars also known as FTS. When we talk about Field Trips and Seminars, automatically the affiliate topic is the Philippine Youth Congress on Information Technology or what we called Y4IT. During our first ever orientation for our subject Field Trips and Seminars, the last year’s batch President informed us about the Y4IT. She said that we need to know the exact date when will the said event happen. She also said that one of the reasons we should choose the Model A which is to be held outside Mindanao or particularly in Manila is the Y4IT. Because as a Computer Science and Information Technology students we need to attend or experience the Y4IT Seminar. She also added that this event is the biggest event for Information Technology and Computer Science students of the year. Since thousands of students, professionals, educators, IT experts and enthusiasts from different parts of the Philippines will be attending. Well, I have attended many seminars and conferences related to Information Technology. Just last semester, I had attended in a Research Conference hosted by one of the school here in Davao City. My expectations for the said conference were too high and I’m quite disappointed as the result.  But I do believe that this Y4IT seminar will be awesome because I know the preparations for this event have been planned very well since it is Nationwide. So I am expecting too much and hoping that I can learn new things and discoveries from this event. And just last 2012, I also attended a graphic convention, it is also for Information Technology and Computer Science students. I was amazed and inspired by that event. I am happy that I've been there. The speakers and their works are really awesome. Yet I am motivated by that event, I am quite disappointed since the speakers don’t teach us or rather, should I call it that they didn't share their knowledge and skills in graphics. They just show us their works and share some principles in doing such things. But by these September, I am looking forward and I am expecting that Youth Congress on Information Technology or Y4IT will not just help Computer Science and Information Technology students but also to encourage the students to continue their career and share their ideas and knowledge.  In fact, Sir Randy Gamboa encourages us to propose a concept paper and could possibly speak in front of many people in the said event. Well, I don’t have the courage to do that so I am will not be submitting my concept paper since it is not a requirement for us Computer Science students. Though, I don’t have stage freights and I have the confidence to speak in front of many people, I think I am not that prepared enough to speak in front of hundreds or thousands students, IT professional, educators and enthusiasts  presenting my concept paper. But I do believe many students from different universities especially students from University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University, University of Sto. Tomas will be presenting their thoughts and ideas.  I can say that since, these universities are those who are in higher ranks. I am expecting that I can gain more knowledge and ideas related to my course from the the biggest IT event of the year which is the Y4IT.  From the world itself Information Technology, I really assume that the technology and related talks that the speakers will be presenting is really awesome. Since the theme of the said event is “Imagine, Innovative and Inspire”, I am expecting new and creative ideas and other stuffs related to information technology. I am expecting that I will be inspired and motivated to continue my career or my course for me to also motivate and inspire others. I am also expecting from the word innovative, that the technology the speakers will be presenting is an enhanced and improved technology better than before. Meaning they will share an original well-developed technology that provides solutions from different kinds of problems. I am also expecting that the speakers for the seminar will be sharing their knowledge and skills to us listeners. I am really hoping and praying with all my heart, with all my soul and with all my mind (chos! HAHA) that they can impart not just share their knowledge and skills to us students.  I am also expecting that the knowledge and ideas that they will share to us listeners are not just “pucho-pucho” or not just simple but great and awesome ideas that can help us to open our minds and imaginations to create solutions. I am also expecting that I can meet new friends since there will be are lot of students attending from different parts of the Philippines. I do believe that we can have small talks and share our ideas with each other.

                I know that Y4IT will be FUN and interesting. Technology will help us develop and make our living easier. It can help us to create solutions for many problems we encounter each day. And I am really hoping that this event will develop our critical thinking and creative minds for us to help the society.

FTS Meeting 3 Reflection

Last Wednesday, June 25, 2014 we had our third meeting. It was held at IC lab2 though it is an air conditioned room it was so hot there at that time since the air condition is not functioning well. Our President open up the problem we are encountering right now but she assured us that our trip will be happening. We also tackled about the breakdowns of expenses. The Interpersonal Skills and Seminars and Team Building are approximately 48.00 pesos each. The Major field trip which will be on Manila is approximately 18,000 pesos each. The Mass preparation will cost 43.00 pesos each and lastly for the other fees will cost 10.00 pesos each. That’s explains why we need to prepare 20,000 pesos. She also assured us that we will be refunded if necessary. Then meeting adjourned.

WHY Model A? (FTS Paper 1 )

      Last school year, I and my friend were candidates for enrollees of the subject Field trip and Seminars. Whenever I hear the word Field trip, the words that automatically comes into my mind are happiness, enjoy, and money. My friends often tell me that field trip is super-duper fun! That’s why when I am so excited to enroll the subject—Field trip and Seminars. But unfortunately, I and my friend didn't qualify the classification or the standard to enroll the subject. You should have at least eighty eight units for you to become a third year standing so that you can enroll the subject. I felt betrayed and sad because we really expect that we can enroll the subject since we already completed the requirements before the enrollment starts. But now, before the second semester ends, we had our orientation for the subject Field Trips and Seminars (FTS). By this time, I already knew that I can really enroll the subject since I already qualify the specifications to enroll the subject.  We discussed about the things to do, preparations for the trip, the company visits, and of course the president of last batch’s FTS testifies her experience in the said trip. We also tackle about the dos and don’ts during the trip. And lastly, we had our election of officers and by the way, I am nominated as the Auditor of the class. The excitement I felt before never changed but I feel a bit nervous and unsure if I can really join the trip since it requires us to prepare a big amount.

First semester, June 2, 2014 I am officially enrolled including the subject FTS. I am excited and uncertain if I can really join the trip. Twenty thousand is really a big amount for us especially my father just died a month ago. We don’t know where to get that money but I do believe that God will provide. God is greater than my needs, my problems and me. I know that He hears my prayers and will surely provide money for my FTS. I do believe in His promises and I rely on Him. Matthew 21:22 says “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask in prayer.”

                This subject is part of our curriculum so we must take this course. No one is exempted. This course is not just a pleasure trip but also an educational trip. According to Sir Randy Gamboa, The objectives of this subject are the following:

1. To familiarize the student with recent trends and developments in information and communication technology thru seminars and field trips as well as gain exposure.

2. To equip the students with basic interpersonal skills in their chosen fields of expertise thru non-technical seminars.

This subject requires us to attend seminars and lectures on current topics and issues on Information and Communication Technology as well as site visits and fieldtrips to different ICT enabled businesses. Westudents are expected to keep a journal integrating the academic and experiential elements of the program. For our site visits and field visits, we are identifying ICT Companies, ICT-Enabled businesses and ICT reliant industries where we can learn from. These may not only be in Davao City but also within the region or country. There are three models that we can choose from:

· Model A = 1 Major Fieldtrip (outside Mindanao) + 1 minor fieldtrip (Mindanao) + 1 seminar (national) + 2hrs. Interpersonal skills

· Model B = 1 Major Fieldtrip (outside Mindanao) + 2 minor fieldtrip (Mindanao) + 2 seminars (8hrs) (Mindanao) + 2hrs. Interpersonal skills

· Model C = 3 Minor fieldtrips (Mindanao) + 4 seminars (16hrs) (Mindanao) + 2hrs. Interpersonal skills

For me, these models are no inferiority and superiority over the other. This has its own significance and advantage. They are equal and fair but I prefer Model A which is one major field trip outside Mindanao and one minor field trip inside Mindanao and two hours Interpersonal skills. It is the best model for me since it has three tasks to do. It is not that hassle like the other models. Model B and C are hassle since it has many tasks to do. As it is said above, Model B has one major fieldtrip which is outside Mindanao, two minor field trips inside Mindanao, two seminars which is eight hours each and two hours Interpersonal skills. And Model C has three minor field trips inside Mindanao, four seminars which are sixteen hours each inside Mindanao and two hours Interpersonal skills. Though, these models are not that expensive yet they are hassle since we have to arrange many things. It takes us so many efforts to accomplish the requirements for these models. Not like the Model A, we just need to accomplish three things. I also want to go to Manila that’s why I chose Model A. I am excited to see what really is in the Manila. Many people say that it was messy, beautiful; over populated and even an author named Dan Brown says Manila is the Gates of Hell. I really don’t care what they say. I just want to describe the feeling. I just want to describe Manila in my own perception. I also want to see the big buildings and malls of Manila especially MOA. They say you can’t wander the mall in just a day. Wow! So, it’s really big. I already imagine that malls here in Davao were not even a half of it. One of the reasons also, why I chose Model A is I really wants to visit big ICT companies not just big but also known companies especially IBM. I want to be motivated and inspired to continue my career and studies.  And of course, I truly want to go Enchanted Kingdom. For me, it’s a dream come true. I want to ride the extreme rides; I want to experience an experience I never had before. I want to feel child again and I want to add this to my childhood memories. Well, I think it’s not that too late. I also I want to go to Tagaytay. I want to experience the beauty of Tagaytay. I want to see how God is so creative. These are my reasons why I chose Model A.

I know that these things I wrote about are I can really experience it. I will never let this opportunity pass through my life. I hope that we’ll enjoy the trip and there’s no big problem that we can’t handle along the way.

AIRPLANE (FTS Paper 2)

                                    What I expect from my first plane ride?

                According to Merriam-Webster dictionary an airplane is a machine that has wings and an engine and that flies through the air. In full definition, it is a powered heavier-than-air aircraft with fixed wings from which it derives most of its lift. In addition, it is a Fixed-wing aircraft that is heavier than air, propelled by a screw propeller or a high-velocity jet, and supported by the dynamic reaction of the air against its wings. An airplane's essential components are the body or fuselage, a flight-sustaining wing system, stabilizing tail surfaces, altitude-control devices such as rudders, a thrust-providing power source, and a landing support system. Beginning in the 1840s, several British and French inventors produced designs for engine-powered aircraft, but the first powered, sustained, and controlled flight was only achieved by Wilbur and Orville Wright in 1903. Later airplane design was affected by the development of the jet engine; most airplanes today have a long nose section, swept-back wings with jet engines placed behind the plane's midsection, and a tail stabilizing section. Most airplanes are designed to operate from land; Seaplanes are adapted to touch down on water, and carrier-based planes are modified for high-speed short take-off and landing.

                I used to ask questions before and even in the present about airplanes. I used to ask myself when I can ride a plane. How does it feel riding a plane? Is it safe to ride a plane? Who invented the plane? How does it work? How it becomes an airplane?  And why it can flies through the air? Some people say it is nervous, exciting, boring, fun, breath-taking, and it is an unforgettable experience to ride a plane.  I wish I can define the feeling. I wish I can ride a plane. Riding a plane is one of things I listed on my bucket list. I wish I can scratch it out on my bucket list. I've been into different places.  I travel by land and by sea but I've never ever tried to travel by air. That’s why I’m so excited to ride a plane. It’s my childhood’s biggest dream and even until now. I've always been dreaming to fly and touch the sky. And riding a plane seems like flying for me. During my childhood days, whenever I saw a plane airing in the sky I always smile while waving my hands at the airplane saying “Ba-bye!”  For my nineteen years of existence, this is my first ever opportunity to ride a plane. That’s why I am so excited for this coming September, I always say in my mind, “Fast forward September, Please.” I will never let this opportunity pass; I will surely grab it because sometimes opportunity only knocks once.  This is my first time to ride a plane that’s why I can’t wait for it. They say first times are special, memorable and forgettable. It is one of the best experiences in life either it is good experience or bad experience.  Well, since it is my first time to ride a plane my expectations are high. I do expect that it is breath-taking since it is my first time to ride a plane. I heard about news about plane crash and such negative things about riding a plane but I do always think positive since I am an optimistic person.  I am always praying and expecting that we will have a safe and enjoy trip.  I am expecting and thinking in a positive way that we will go outside the Davao complete and we will go home complete. I am also expecting that this is so fun. I will love this awesome moment of my life. And I am sure that I will keep on smiling the whole time of the ride. I am expecting also that this is so nervous. Because I don’t know, you don’t know and we don’t know what would really happen. Maybe this is the first and last time I can ride a plane. Well, only God knows but as of this moment, I am surrendering it to God and I trust Him all the way. I am also expecting that before I can ride a plane there are many process to do. As I heard from my friends who experienced to ride a plane, staffs and guards will check your baggage and of course you. They will check you if you have guns, sharp things like scissors and knifes. And they would ask you to remove your shoes, belt and such stuffs. There are many prohibited things in the plane such as any liquids are not allowed but except for perfume which is should only 100 ml.  I am quite expecting that our flight will be delayed because I know we are Filipino, so as expected we’ll surely put into practice again the “Filipino time”. (HAHAHA) I am also expecting that I could take a picture or what we called “selfie” with my friends since it is my first time but only if it is allowed. I am planning to take my sit near on the window so I can view the beautiful creation of God. Maybe I can even shout because of excitement but of course I should control myself since I believe that there are other passengers in the plane.  I’m also hoping that I and my friends can choose a position or an exact sitting arrangement for us. I am also expecting that the services in the plane are convenient and of course it is comfortable. I can’t wait for so long, how I wish tomorrow will be September. (HAHA)  I’m super-duper excited and I’m sure my classmates too. I hope all of my expectations will be met. I really can’t wait.

                I am looking forward to the things I wanted the most especially reaching my dreams. I am also thinking positive that I can really ride a plane in God’s perfect time. I am praying that this coming September, God will be our pilot and our guide for this trip.  I am also praying and hoping that this trip will be the best trip ever! And I and my classmates will be very happy.