The Student Affairs and the Guidance and Counseling Services of Pines City Colleges (PCC) collaboratively facilitated a college life hack seminar entitled “COLLEGE: Navigating Challenges for Success” on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at the PCC Covered Court. Specially designed as a key student development initiative, the event was divided into two comprehensive sessions to accommodate different departments and maximize freshman engagement.
The Morning Session, running from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., welcomed first-year students from the College of Nursing (BSN), College of Respiratory Therapy (BSRT), and College of Physical Therapy (BSPT). The Afternoon Session, held from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., catered to freshmen from the College of Dental Medicine (DDM), College of Pharmacy (BSP), and College of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS).
Each session began with an organized registration period led by Ms. Marilyn P. Chomayag and representatives from PICCASO. Following this, the program officially commenced with a Meditative and Inspirational Song presented by the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) department to set a focused and positive tone for the day.
Mr. Jayson P. Belino, Head of Student Affairs and Services, delivered the opening remarks. He warmly welcomed the incoming freshmen, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to supporting their transition into tertiary education and encouraging them to actively participate in all activities provided for their holistic growth.
To stimulate self-awareness and active participation, Ms. Jona Mae Q. Garapo, RPM, the school psychometrician, facilitated an engaging Reflective Learning Activity. This exercise allowed students to introspect on whether or not they have already established study habits that could help them cope with academic challenges.
Following the opening activities, Ms. Consuelo E. Pagaduan, the school guidance counselor, formally stepped up to lead Part I of the Lecture-Discussion, which focused on Effective Study Habits and the SQ3R Method. Ms. Pagaduan presented twelve critical study habits essential for boosting student success, highlighting foundational pillars such as robust time management, consistent class attendance, and proactive preparation. She advocated for practical cognitive strategies, including establishing a dedicated study space, utilizing mnemonics, and connecting daily lessons to long-term goals. Central to her discussion was the execution of the SQ3R method (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review), an alternative study strategy proven to enhance reading comprehension and optimize academic performance.
During the health break, the energy in the Covered Court was revitalized by an Enrichment Video and presentation showcasing the GSDC (LGBTQ+) committee. Featuring the motivational themes of “You Gotta Be” and “Don’t Worry, Good Things Will Come,” the presentation incorporated encouraging dance and dynamic movements designed to inspire the freshmen. The uplifting performance sent a powerful message of authenticity, reminding students to remain true to themselves, alleviate unnecessary worries, and stay optimistic about the good things ahead.
Ms. Pagaduan then returned for Part II of the Lecture-Discussion, tackling the crucial impact of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Guidelines to Boost Academic Performance. During this segment, she provided freshmen with practical guidelines on how to cope with the rigorous demands of college life. She outlined how cultivating emotional intelligence, specifically self-regulation, empathy, and social skills, directly influences stress management, decision-making, and interpersonal relationships within the campus environment.
The program concluded with a comprehensive Synthesis, Question and Answer, and Evaluation segment managed by Ms. Jona Mae Q. Garapo. This open forum allowed participants to seek further clarifications, voice their queries, and reflect collectively on the topics discussed.
Both sessions successfully covered all crucial dimensions of student development, providing the freshmen with foundational knowledge on how to manage their habits, build emotional resilience, and improve their academic achievement. Backed by the administration, including Dr. Marian Grace A. Gascon, VP for Academic Affairs, the event successfully equipped PCC’s newest students with the academic hacks and motivation required to face challenges for success throughout their college years. #MedenGarcia
