School News  • March 31, 2023

Written by Multiple Writers

Also known as JA, he holds an NC III TESDA - Visual Graphic Designer degree and works as an LF in APEC schools.Mr. JA introduced the topic by asking pop questions to help the students better comprehend what we were discussing. One such question was, "What is the difference between a graphic artist and a graphic designer?". Following a little period of questioning, he went on to explore Adobe Express, its purpose, and the capabilities it offers. One of the features that Mr. JA talked about in Adobe Express is badges. He stated that they function to encourage creativity and Adobe usage. At the meeting, he also created an example poster for the students, thus, they could see what else Adobe could create while giving them more tips and tricks. Afterward, Mr. JA spoke on the Principles of Visual Design, which are balance, contrast, emphasis, proportions, hierarchy, repetition, rhythm, pattern, white space, movement, variety, and unity. He highlighted the importance of these principles while designing designs as they can affect how your main point or message is conveyed to the audience. He gave the students an example of the principle he discussed with us, which is proportions: If the audience wants to read it, a larger text will probably be seen as the design's most prominent feature.

Mr. JA finished the session by sharing his portfolio of sample work for the students to check. Furthermore, they provided them with a Question and Answer period, during which Mr. JA addressed their questions. The ease of use of this new software and certain conclusions regarding the graphic design that still produced the best results were reached. In addition to receiving advice on how to get better each time they create a new design, this helps students express their creativity through art more satisfactorily.

Testimonials: 

“I really appreciate that this sort of program is available for students since the type of topics they're discussing in the classes are very helpful whether for current tasks that students may need to accomplish or future preparations.”

- J. Calades

“The Lpods I have chosen interested me a lot since I am into graphic designing. The Lpods help me learn new skills and ways on how to use the Adobe Express.” 

- S. Bargas

The host, Sir Joel, started the session by giving advice on how to ace an interview to start the session. describing the interview process and what to expect, as well as how your responses may impact it. 

And for the most part of the session, Sir Joel continues by describing the typical interview questions that are asked and how to respond to them, mentioning the 80/20 rule. Stating that "Most of the time the person who is actually talking will be the candidates or the applicants than us as we are the ones who are asking the questions". Additionally, when preparing for an interview, it is advised to highlight your strengths rather than your flaws. Then, he underlines that it is best to discuss your abilities, hobbies, and typical pastimes when answering the question, "Tell me about yourself." 

Thus, the host continued to provide advice on how to respond to interview questions and how to ace them for the remainder of the session. Afterward, addressing some of the students' queries and worries on the subject at hand. He also promoted Foundever to the students at the session's conclusion. highlighting the best moments and tales from Foundever. Sharing images showcasing their rebranding process, their current marketing priorities, and the evolution of their business. He also shared their QR code for when you would like to apply for their company.

Amazingly, they have positions all throughout the world! Hearing about this company's accomplishments and its accessibility worldwide is really admirable. 

The meeting with Sir Joel came to a successful conclusion at that point. providing advice and knowledge that will be useful to pupils in the future. Or perhaps for those who hope to begin working while still a student shortly. At the session's conclusion, Ms. Isabel requested a photo opportunity with the host, the students, and the teachers. 

Learning PODS host, Ms. Rizza Campo introduced Ortigas Extension and Kalumpang’s Guidance Associate, Miss Mary Chloe Denise Flores as the speaker. With her counseling experience, she shared important tips and advice that will certainly aid students in managing their stress.

Stressors such as academics, relationships, finances, and politics can be difficult to deal with. Sometimes these stressors can interrelate with each other like relationships and academics. There are tips the speaker, Ms. Chloe shared: first is to practice radical acceptance. It can be achieved by accepting something fully without judgment. “Acceptance liberates you and allows you to see more options,” she added. The second tip is to stay ALIVE, which stands for awareness, label, invite, and value enhancement. It is to deal with emotions in a healthy way. 

The speaker asked students to participate in two activities at the end of the program. The first mindfulness activity involves the OrtEx student council president sharing what they see, hear, touch, smell, and taste. They also did guided meditation. Ms. Chloe ended her presentation with a quote by William James, saying “The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.”

Ms. Marden started her discussion with the topic of earning money through skills as a freelancer and student, which made her discussion exciting and interesting. Writing and editing, graphic design, web development, social media management, and transition services are the freelance jobs she mentioned for students. She also recommended the following freelancing sites: Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, Guru, OnlineJobs.PH, and VirtualStaff.PH. She then introduced the students who became successful freelancers and lastly, she discussed the most in-demand freelancing jobs for students, which are being a social media manager and a content creator.

The discussion concluded with lots of questions from the audience which are then answered by Ms. Marden, she also left some advice and suggestions before starting a freelance job for students, a photo op for the documentation, and acknowledgments to Ms. Rizza Campo for being the host, Ms. Diana De Jesus for the production and Ms. Kate Cagara for the technical team.

“If you can see yourself as a freelancer, start now and if you believe in your skills, start now.” or and “If you have the skills, the opportunity is endless.” - Ms. Marden Ann De Guzman

Starting off,  your resume and portfolio are the first things potential employers will see, therefore, it is crucial to make them look noteworthy. Ensure that they do a decent job of highlighting their credentials and experience. Moreover, keep in mind that the introduction to your resume is necessary. Provide the key components, namely the name, email, phone number, and address of the contact number. Professional summaries or objective statements, as well as relevant work history, education, and abilities listed in reverse chronological order, are essential.

Incorporate the formatting guidelines while creating your resume, select a straightforward structure, utilize a readable font, and emphasize your most essential qualifications. In order to stand out, add a unique touch. While tailoring your resume, emphasize specific skills and knowledge that are applicable to the position you desire. Employ the job description's key phrases.

In accordance with the illustration above, the needs for the portfolio are also discussed, along with details and advice. Your portfolio, which is a collection of educational and professional resources, will highlight your abilities, credentials, education, training, and experiences.

This discussion sure helps students a lot, this information can be utilized as a guide in creating an excellent portfolio and resume, especially for students who will be applying for jobs in the near future. 

A presentation of his entitled, “Financial 101: Saan Napupunta ang pera ni Totoy at Nene?”, gets to the nutshell of the basics of financing money that comes with an interactive engagement with the students. Sir Julius emphasized “Dasurv Generation”, a mindset of the said generation that if they wanted something, they believe that they deserve it. In addition, he introduced four habits to save more money and help with financing: (1) Identify your basic necessities so you know how much to save or spend, (2) Automate your savings, (3) Monitor your spending habits, (4) Create savings goals, and an additional tip (5) Label your savings  “Where to next”. 

A financial literacy worksheet was introduced after a meaningful discussion regarding the 40/20 Salary. This is with the help of Xian Iverson Tan, a Grade 10 student, and a financial enthusiast. The literacy worksheet makes use of the 60 - 20 - 20 budget rule that makes tracking your financial lifestyle easier.

As the financial literacy discussion comes to an end, Mr. Tesalona leaves a quote: "Financial literacy is not just about managing your finances, it's also about maximizing the resources that we have in the present". Truly, a fruitful discussion was observed, and the students are grateful because now they're aware of financial literacy. Ms. Isabel Bernardo awarded a certificate of appreciation to Mr. Julius Tesalona for his wonderful discussion that was engaging, informative, and fun to APEC Schools Ortigas Extension Students.

Lastly, all attendees of the discussion have a photo opportunity. Gratitude and appreciation we’re being seen. 

As season 2 comes to an over a new season will soon be discovered. Watch out!