The College of Computer Studies (CCS) held its First College-initiated Scholar’s Orientation and General Assembly at AVR-5, SBM Bldg. It was attended by at least 60 scholars, the Computer Science Chair Meldie A Apag, Information Systems Chair Joseph Antonio S Sabal, CCS faculty members Paulo B Gener and Sheryl Mae C Jagonia, and CCS Academic Coordinator Ms. Heidi O. Jaquilmac.

Matters of the heart. The heart of the gathering was the life story of XU scholar Rhea Suzette Mocorro, now a CS Instructor. She shared about her personal triumphs and difficulties in keeping her scholarship grant as she was finishing her degree in Computer Science.

Mocorro narrated that she had always dreamt of studying at Xavier even if she knew that her parents, who were humble vendors in Cogon Market, couldn’t send her to a private university. Nevertheless, it was through hard work, persistence and utmost care of her scholarship opportunity that she was able to fulfil her dream. She also shared that it was her sheer determination and absolute faith in herself and in God that helped her hold onto her scholarship.

From being a scholar grappling with a daily allowance of P20.00 (this was in the early to mid 2000’s), she is now a faculty member of the Computer Science department, inspiring students not just with her knowledge but with her personal story of success.

An Engagement of the mind. Being a scholar is not easy. Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid Director Cecilia Japitana reminded the scholars of their roles and responsibilities in sustaining their scholarship grants. She also stressed on the consequences they might face if they fail to maintain the needed QPI to retain their scholarships.

In the end, she enjoined the scholars to continue the tradition of magis and the value of “Paying It Forward” after graduating from XU. r