The Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception (FCIC) Graduate School warmly welcomed its incoming graduate students through the Student On-Boarding Program for Academic Year 2026–2027, held on July 11, 2026. The whole-day activity served as an opportunity to introduce students to graduate school life while inspiring them to embrace the challenges and responsibilities of advanced education with confidence, purpose, and commitment.
The program began with a Holy Mass at the FCIC Holy Trinity Chapel, followed by the opening ceremonies at the LRC-AVR. The participants were officially welcomed by Sr. M. Adrianne A. Siano, OSF, PhD, Vice President for Academic Affairs, while Sr. M. Andrea Tomanda, OSF, DM, School President, delivered an inspirational message encouraging students to remain steadfast in their pursuit of academic excellence and lifelong learning.
One of the highlights of the program was the presentation of “All About FCIC Graduate School Education” by Dr. Maria Victoria A. Gonzaga, Dean of the Graduate School. In her address, Dr. Gonzaga challenged the students to cultivate humility, perseverance, and discipline throughout their graduate studies. She emphasized that graduate school is not about seeking recognition but about consistently doing meaningful work, leaving the audience with the memorable reminder of a quote from Frank Ocean: “Work in silence and let success make the noise.” Her message encouraged students to focus on developing competence, integrity, and excellence, trusting that genuine accomplishments will naturally speak for themselves.
The onboarding also featured engaging and informative sessions, including the orientation on FCIC Learning Management System (LMS) and Online Etiquette by Mr. John Melchor Libres, MAEd, FCIC Head, Information and Communications Technology / System and Network Administrator / DPO / ACE Coordinator.
The following session featured the inspiring discussion on the Essence of Graduate Education by Dr. Beth Catherine M. Dongon. She emphasized that graduate education goes beyond earning a degree—it is a transformative journey of intellectual growth, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. She reminded the participants that graduate students are not merely consumers of existing knowledge but are creators of knowledge, capable of generating new ideas, conducting meaningful research, and contributing innovative solutions that can positively impact their professions and communities. Her message challenged students to become active who advance knowledge through inquiry, collaboration, and service.
Another meaningful session was “Mapping Your Graduate School Journey” facilitated by Dr. Avelina V. Oclinaria. She guided the incoming students in understanding the path they would take throughout their graduate studies, highlighting the importance of setting clear academic goals, managing time effectively, maintaining resilience amidst challenges, and staying committed to personal and professional growth. She encouraged students to view every milestone—from coursework to research and thesis writing—as stepping stones toward becoming competent professionals and future leaders in their respective fields.
An Inspirational Talk by Ms. Janicel O. Fernandez, MAEd motivates the student to continue their journey and embrace all challenges positively as part of the learning experience. An Open Forum was led by Dr. Aniceto D. Garcia. The activity was successfully facilitated by Miss Tracie R. Puna,MA one of the Graduate School Faculty.
The successful onboarding program not only acquainted students with the academic expectations and support systems of the Graduate School but also inspired them to begin their graduate education with purpose, determination, and a commitment to academic excellence. As they embark on this new chapter, the incoming graduate students are reminded that through quiet dedication, continuous learning, and the pursuit of knowledge, they have the opportunity to create meaningful contributions to their professions, communities, and society.
