FOUNDATION EXPERIENCE

ASHLEY Q. PASTORIN

On a balmy Wednesday afternoon on August 14, 2024, our campus fair unfolded with excitement. The teachers from each department meticulously prepared interactive booths for us, the students. My most cherished memory was venturing into the TVET department's booth, where a thrilling game awaited. The challenge was to bounce a ping pong ball against the wall and skillfully aim it at the glass for a chance to win a prize. The intensity of the game filled me with a mix of exhilaration and joy. After several attempts, I triumphed, winning a grand Nova and two medium-sized novas. The elation of victory filled me with happiness and satisfaction.

As August 15, 2024, dawned, we celebrated Assumption Day, our foundation day, and the collective birthday of all the sons and daughters of Venerable Aloysius. Among the festivities, the moment that etched itself in my heart was the gift-giving ceremony. Receiving a simple gift from Sister filled me with immense joy. It wasn't the monetary value of the gift that touched me, but the love and care she poured into preparing it. The love enveloping that modest gift held more significance to me than any material possession could convey.

RODERICK DUYAPAT

Celebrations are one of the ways for us to be happy.Birthdays are those yearly events in our lives that are frequently celebrated with  parties and ceremonies. However, the real meaning of birthday happiness is found within the state of enjoyment and appreciation rather than just the celebrations on the outside.

As we celebrate this special occasion, it has given me a lot of experience. Firstly during that day I have really enjoyed playing with my friends and doormates.We cherish the moment as if it was our last day here in boystown but actually this is our last birthday celebration as students of the Sisters of Mary School. Secondly during that day I really thank my batchmate for their effort in preparing for the program that night. I was one of those who put the stage curtain that is used as the backdrop of the stage. Lastly of all my experience that day, is the giving of gifts by our mother sisters. Gift is really an important thing when we celebrate birthdays but always remember that there are two types of present that we can receive, the spiritual one and the physical one. Spiritual gifts are the emotions that the people around us share to us during the celebration while the physical gifts are the things we receive from them. Let us always be joyful in these kinds of celebrations and never forget to share  with each other.

In conclusion, birthday happiness is a multifaceted experience that transcends the external trappings of celebration. It is rooted in self-reflection, appreciation for our journey, the joy of sharing with loved ones, and embracing our unique selves. While external factors can contribute to the overall experience, the true essence of birthday happiness lies within, in our ability to find contentment and gratitude amidst the complexities of life. By cultivating these internal qualities, we can transform our birthdays into genuine expressions of joy, celebrating not just the passage of time, but the richness of our lives.

RODEL BALINGBING

The air buzzed with excitement as alumni of Sisters of Mary gathered on campus, their faces beaming with pride and nostalgia. It was a day of celebration, a testament to the enduring legacy of this esteemed institution. The graduates, now successful professionals in diverse fields, had returned to their alma mater, not just to reminisce about their own journeys, but to offer invaluable support to the current students.

Their presence served as a potent reminder of the value of charitable giving and the long-lasting effects of education. The former students kindly contributed their time, knowledge, and resources, understanding the difficulties that current students confront. In order to make sure that the current generation had the resources and support necessary to navigate their academic and professional paths, they held workshops, gave career advice, and offered mentorship. The lively energy of the school's games further punctuated the day, demonstrating the spirit of rivalry and camaraderie that flourished within the Sisters of Mary community. Throughout the day, the great connection that exists between alumni and the university they call home is demonstrated by the success of this event. It emphasized the value of community, the transformational potential of education, and the Sisters of Mary's unflinching dedication to raising the next generation. The graduates' persistent support has allowed them to

have made sure that the Sisters of Mary's legacy lives on, encouraging pupils to realize their own potential and make a positive impact on the future.

JOHN ZEDRICK MAGYAYA

On August 14-15, 2024, I had a very joyful experience. During the Campus Fare on August 14, we participated in various games at the SMSAI gymnasium. We used "chips" or tickets, which we earned from our teacher for recitations, to play the games. I first played the "shooting" game, organized by TVET instructors, where I exchanged 2 chips for 3 basketball shots at the hoop. Prizes were distributed after completing each game. Following the shooting game, I played the "bet game," where I had to bet on the outcome of three rolled dice. After winning some small prizes, I used my chips to buy a pack of prizes from the teachers, and then I went upstairs to store them.

 On the day of August 15, 2024, marked the ASSUMPTION DAY and the BIRTHDAY of all SOM students. Our sisters presented us with thoughtful gifts including a gray t-shirt, 2 overloads, and a NOVA snack. After the gift-giving, grade 12 students had free time while other batches performed dances in their designated areas. The highlight of the day was the evening program in the gymnasium at 6:00 PM, where the performances by my batchmates moved the audience to tears of joy.