Embracing the Unfamiliar: My Journey through Bicol University Graduate School (BUGS)

As a wide-eyed computer science student, I embarked on a thrilling journey at Bicol University Graduate School (BUGS) for my 240-hour on-the-job training. Little did I know that these few months would change my perspective on life, work, and the power of collaboration. This is the story of how I, along with my newfound friends, Ezra, Kian, and Pili, navigated the world of academia, contributed to meaningful projects, and forged lasting memories.

From the moment we stepped foot into the BUGS office, we were met with warm smiles and a genuine sense of camaraderie. Sir Dan, the head of the department, introduced us to our tasks for the coming weeks. I was tasked with helping Ashney create Notice of Admission (NOA) letters for students applying for masteral and doctoral programs. It was a challenging responsibility, but Ashney was patient and guided me every step of the way.

Our little group of interns quickly became a tight-knit team. When Sir John Rey, one of the staff, needed assistance sorting through student documents, we gladly jumped in to help. The experience allowed us to understand the inner workings of the university and the hard work that goes into maintaining smooth academic operations. Each day was an opportunity to learn something new, and we embraced it with enthusiasm.

With the application season in full swing, the office was a whirlwind of activity. Ezra, Kian, Pili, and I took on the task of organizing the documents according to the courses and programs. It was a meticulous job, but we managed to efficiently divide and deliver them to different departments across the university campuses. The feeling of accomplishment was unparalleled as we saw the fruits of our labor come together.

As our last week approached, we couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nostalgia. We had bonded with the BUGS staff, and they had become more than just mentors they were friends and guiding lights. Looking back, I realized how much I had grown during my time at BUGS, not only professionally but also personally.

On the final day of our OJT, we thought we were done, ready to say our goodbyes. To our surprise, the Dean of BUGS, Ma'am Jean, requested us to return for a special treat. She wanted to express her gratitude for our hard work and dedication. That Saturday, we gathered once more, sharing stories and laughter over a sumptuous lunch. It was a touching gesture that left a lasting impact on all of us.

As I bid farewell to BUGS, I carried with me cherished memories and a newfound passion for my chosen field. The journey had not only provided me with practical skills but also taught me the importance of teamwork, resilience, and embracing the unfamiliar. I am forever grateful to Sir Dan, Ma'am Jean, Sir John Rey, Ma'am Daf, and the entire staff of BUGS for opening their doors and hearts to us. This OJT experience will forever be etched in my heart, and I am eager to take on the next chapter of my life, armed with the lessons and experiences from BUGS.