PLM Department of Psychology conducts its first Pinning Ceremony, celebrates student success and resilience

The Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) Psychology Department marked a significant milestone for the community of the said department, particularly the fourth-year Psychology students of Batch 2023-2024 as they conducted their first-ever Pinning Ceremony last February 7. The event, which was attended by distinguished professionals in the field, was meant to honor the achievements and resilience of students who navigated their academic paths amid the challenges they stumbled upon from their freshmen to senior years.

The ceremony marked the turning point in the academic careers of the psychology students. Due to the pandemic, the batch that participated in PLM's first-ever pinning ceremony had to adjust to the abrupt switch to online learning. The bumpy roads they traveled on played a pivotal role in their academic journey—all of which makes the ceremony both a life-changing event and an unforgettable experience.

"It will definitely be a good transition for all the students' efforts to get to this point." In a post-event interview, Shane Cuevas—President of the PLM Psychological Society (PsySoc)—emphasized the symbolic nature of the ceremony, highlighting how students will then apply what they have learned in real-world settings despite starting their college virtually. "Parang ayun, parang kahapon lang we're conducting all classes nung first year ng online," Cuevas said.

Moreover, PsySoc Vice President for External Affairs, Chriztel Faye Reyes, emphasized that the pinning ceremony represented the psychology students' whole journey, showcasing their enthusiasm for the field of psychology and serving as a withstanding feat that will endure with them as they begin their internships.

The College of Science Dean, Prof. Aileen Atienza, gave a heartfelt welcome and encouraged the students to take pride in the event and realize their commitment to their chosen field.

Following that, PLM's Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ronald Romero, read Atty. Domingo "Sir Sonny" Reyes, Jr.’s message to set the tone for a day filled with reflection, enthusiasm, and inspiration. In his message, President Sonny urged the psychology students to live up to the acronym EGO, which stands for excellence, godliness, and optimism. "May each of us develop a strong sense of self-worth and grow into better versions of ourselves, who will soon lead your chosen field," Dr. Romero read.

Prominent professionals graced the event, including Rachel Faye Torio Nuñez, an alumna of batch 2022 who gave an inspiring speech on her own journey in psychology. She talked about the difficulties she had while completing an internship and the COVID-19 pandemic's then-impending effects. Nuñez stressed the value of perseverance, faith, and the pin that every single psychology student wears with pride.

In her powerful speech, respected board member of the Psychological Association of the Philippines Dr. Pricila B. Marzan urged the graduating class to maintain their professional growth, stay involved in associations for psychologists, and accept the difficulties that come with practicing psychology.

“I want you to remind yourselves to enhance or impact yourself on the lives of other people. Your knowledge and skills have the power to heal, to inspire, and to transform each interaction that you have with a client or patient, or a research participant [which] is an opportunity for all of you to make a difference and also to provide support and to promote positive change.”

Following a successful first pinning ceremony, the psychology department shared its aspirations for the future. They expressed their desire for this ceremony to become tradition at the PLM Department of Psychology, affirming its significance in promoting the field of psychology. 

In spite of difficulties, the occasion honored academic triumphs and displayed the determination along with dedication of psychology students in pursuing their studies. In the future, the organizers hoped to make the ceremony accessible to friends and families by involving the larger community.

PsySoc Treasurer, Bea Rodelas, stressed the importance of upholding transparency and prudent financial management for the subsequent pinning ceremonies: "Siguro as part ng preparation sa interest check pa lang, i-release kung ano yung result, then i-heads up agad yung students na mga ganitong amount yung magagastos natin. Also, i-consider din talaga yung contingency fund.”

"What we have learned lang naman is kapag sa next batch, need nila talagang [i]-consider lahat ng factors like 10 step ahead kayo kasi may mga circumstances yung hindi mo ma-expect," said PsySoc Senior Officer Chelsea Queen Cabalquinto, who also offered advice for the upcoming batches on how to overcome criticisms and unforeseen circumstances.

The cooperation and dedication of PsySoc, students, and faculty members of PLM's Department of Psychology was vital in making the pinning ceremony a success. This historic event not only established a new chapter in the history of PLM's psychology department, but it also provided a model for upcoming generations of psychology students to follow. The guidance, insights, and words of wisdom that were provided at this occasion will surely serve as a beacon of hope for these fourth year students as they set out on their careers.