by Glaiza Joie D. Aranda

Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church, encouraged Centralians to do their work as unto the Lord.

A Pre-employment Training Seminar for the graduating students was conducted on September 13 and 14, 2018 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium in Central Philippine University, sponsored by the Career Placement Office in partnership with CPU Alumni Association Inc. and the University Church.

The seminar started with a prayer, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Graduating students of 2018 and 2019 participated in this training that aims to teach the students the skills they would need to get a job and expose them to some real-life work situations after graduation.

Speakers from their different fields of expertise shared their knowledge in job hunting and the biblical learnings associated with their work experiences. One of the speakers reminded the students to “put God first in everything you do.” On creating a good impression on the employer by taking care that one looks good or dresses well, the speaker emphasized that it is “character that matters.” Speakers also mentioned that although a company could hire great workers, Christian workers are still better, not only for the skill that they may possess, but more importantly, the values and character that they hold.

Centralian asking a question during the open forum.

To strengthen this point, another speaker alluded to some great corporate leaders who became successful because they used the principles of Jesus. According to Dr. Lejo C. Braña, a CPU alumnus, the formula to success is the 6 I’s and 3 G’s. The 6 I’s include the following: interested, involved, investment, intense, inspiration and improvement. The 3 G’s, on the other hand, refer to the grace and goodness of God. Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of University Church, said that success should be based on biblical principles. We should make the Scriptures as our guide in making godly choices.

Towards the end of the pre-employment seminar, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of CPU Office of Communications, reminded the Centralians that the University Church was designed similar to the Malay Balangay Boat, which implies unity among Centralians in rowing towards the same direction. Students may leave Central Philippine University but the vision of CPU—that is, Exemplary Christian Education for Life—must be lived out. The legacy of EXCEL is not just to know what is right and wrong but to live a Christian life worthy of emulation. As St. Paul wrote, “Imitate me as I imitate Christ.” In terms of honesty, integrity and hard work, people will look up to Centralians as examples to be followed. He continued by challenging everyone: CPU gives the legacy that gives life, not just in this lifetime but life for eternity. When one thinks of the Central Spirit, one should think and look back to the vision of CPU.

Centralians eagerly listening to the lecture.

The CPU Alumni Association Inc., headed by their President, Engr. Isagani Jalbuena, also presented the members of the Board of Trustees, and all the activities and projects of the organization. He also challenged the soon-to-be alumni to attend homecoming activities and to join an alumni chapter wherever they would be later on.

Certificates of appreciation were given to the invited speakers: Dr. Lejo C. Braña, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on and Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian. Those involved in organizing this seminar included the chair and co-chair of PETS Committee, Career Placement Officers, Ms. Rouella Cheyenne C. Aberia, and Mr.Stephen A. Yuson, respectively; the Director of the Guidance Services Center, Ms. Raquel L. Polec-eo; and the Vice-President for Student Affairs, Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico.

The Pre-employment Training Seminar ended with a conviction that the participants gained knowledge and positive learnings that would be helpful in their chosen career and in their life’s journey.