By Jonas Rey Lugas Macabangon / November 23, 2023
Catbalogan City – In a significant step towards fostering international educational collaboration, Samar State University (SSU) welcomed a distinguished team from the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF), also known as Fulbright Philippines, for an enlightening Information Session held at the College of Arts and Sciences, Audio Visual Center on November 22 (23).
The Fulbright team, comprising Ms. Joanne Fajardo, Program Officer, Mr. Justin Dominique Mendoza Rupido, Assistant Program Officer, and Ms. Andrea Faye S. Mendoza, SSU and UGRAD Scholar Alumna, engaged an eager audience in discussions about educational opportunities available in the United States.
Prior to the informative session, the Fulbright team had a courtesy call with Dr. Marilyn D. Cardoso, the University President. The meeting marked a mutual expression of interest in collaboration to elevate the educational landscape of Samar State University and Samar as a whole on the international stage.
During the information session, Ms. Fajardo expressed the Fulbright program’s eagerness to welcome more scholars from Samar to pursue higher education in the United States. The event drew participants from various schools and departments across Catbalogan City, creating a diverse audience keen on exploring avenues for international education. Specifically, 83 college students, 21 senior high school students, and 21 faculty and staff taking graduate school attended. Also attending the event was Dr. Mae V. Cañal, Director for Student Welfare and Development Services, and Prof. Pedro S. Cabrales, Coordinator for International Student Exchange.
The overarching purpose of the session was to inform the people of Samar about the opportunities to study in the United States. Ms. Fajardo emphasized the transformative potential of bringing back acquired knowledge and experiences to better serve and contribute to the development of the Philippines.
Following the session, the Fulbright team, joined by Prof. Cabrales, engaged in discussions about future collaborative endeavors and information sessions. This proactive approach towards ongoing dialogue highlights the commitment of both Fulbright Philippines and Samar State University to create lasting educational impacts.
