From Chants to Chapters: A Jumpstart to the Next Frontier

The soundtrack, the roar of chants, and the long-awaited anticipation officially welcomed the freshman students of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) College of Education (COED) for the 2025-2026 academic year. Carrying the theme “Jumpstart Project Adventure: Jumpstarting the COED Frontier,” the beginning of a story unfolded through the coordinated colors and voices rising in rhythmic yells that echoed pride and unity. A voice that demands to be heard is a petition that goes beyond the simple loudness we hear. 

The jumpstart is not only an orientation but also a sign of a new chapter being written for every future educator and librarian. A long-anticipated moment begins with heartfelt words from Dr. Rosemariebeth Dizon, DEM, Dean of the College of Education. “Ang tagal-tagal na hinintay," she quoted. Emphasizing the multiple delays and reschedulings before the day of the event, “After several reschedulings, we are here now. This is the beginning of a beautiful and successful college journey,” Dr. Dizon added. 

Through a collaborative visual presentation, students were introduced to the pillars of PUP and the rich background and credentials of COED. The history, the dedicated faculty members, and the ambitious mission and goals serve as a reminder to everyone that they are now part of the legacy of accomplishments within the academic institution. The "Trilogical Functions" of university life—instruction, research, and extension—were also discussed by Asst. Professor John Amiel Rivera, while Ms. Melanie Jimenez introduced The Limestone, the official student publication of the College of Education, a medium for expression and creativity. 

From formal to lively, the crowd went active and participative for the icebreaker “It’s giving." The competition was fierce but friendly. Students rushed to answer in the first round to name the PUP and venues, and identify the chairpersons for the second round. At last, the “Blow My Mind” challenge was dominated by the first-year delegate of the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Mathematics. Together with the PUP College of Education Student Council, they proudly presented various student organizations that serve as the heartbeat of each student's major, highlighting that there’s a room for every talent, whether academic or non-academic, and there’s an organization where you belong. 

The stage was more than just a venue for speakers; it was a vibrant representation of the pure talent that characterizes the College of Education. Several outstanding performances kept the stage warm, starting with Shea Valerie Ombao from BECED 2-1, a soulful voice with her cover of "Listen" by Beyoncé. The momentum continued to build as a powerful dance performance was given by SS1 of BSEDSS 1-1 to energize the crowd. A shift from energetic to heartbreaking performance occurred when Mary Shaine Geraldino of BLIS 2-1 took the microphone to sing “Patawad, Paalam” by I Belong to the Zoo and Moira Dela Torre. Then, once again, a dynamic performance from Hataw Damlay brought back the applause of the audience. Heading to the end of the program, the band We Met at Pureza delivered a concert-like experience to the venue by performing Miss Miss by Rob Daniel and Ang Huling El Bimbo by Eraserheads. Truly, there is passion and creativity in what they do. Educators aren’t only masters in the classroom but also in performing and serving the audience.

As the wheel of names spun on the screen, cheers erupted. Even simple tokens became symbols of surprise and the unpredictability of college life, reminding us that they are the ones that make our college life bearable and memorable. Despite the tiredness, sleepiness, and physical exhaustion students feel, the energy still makes it through the roof. It was truly an enjoyable memory to keep and look back on. The intention was felt through the chants, performances, and introductions as a bridge to build relationships that will last into the next school year, not only at the beginning of college life. 

With a rekindled sense of purpose rather than a feeling of ending, there lies the final part of the event. The day's events were perfectly complemented emotionally by Dr. Caroline T. Sumande, Assistant Dean of COED. Her closing remarks were a challenge for the future but also a tribute to the student's determination. “Ang mahalaga, nandito pa rin kayo,” Dr. Sumande emphasized. She added, “You didn’t just survive the first semester; you learned, and you grew. Not just from the subjects, but from each other.” Her remarks served as a reminder that although the "Jumpstart" represented the formal beginning of everyone’s journey, the real journey takes place in the daily connections formed within the college. It served as a moving reminder that, in the field of education, "Endings are not always goodbyes." Rather, they are the important changes that create a path for greater opportunities, improved quality of education, and an ongoing pursuit of excellence in the COED legacy.

As Project Adventure’s curtains close, the map has been created, the frontier is open, and the journey is only getting started for COED's future educators and librarians. The event wasn’t late—rather, it's the ideal time to remind us that growth follows moments of connection rather than a calendar. The first year may have come to an end, but the second year begins with closer connections, greater shared memories, and a stronger sense of self. 

Written by Shayne Cuaresma and Crisha Señar