The field of Architecture has boomed in recent years, which led to the UB Architecture student population to spring up as well. With this, the AR-KITAKITS: Freshmen Orientation Day organized by the United Architects of the Philippines Student Auxiliary – University of Baguio Architecture Collegiate Society (UAPSA UB-ARCS) signifies the commencement of an essential phase for aspiring architects. Held on August 24, 2024, at the UB Centennial Hall, this event was essential for freshmen to understand the academic and social parts of the architecture program in UAPSA UB-ARCS. It is intended to introduce new students, make them feel at home, and orientate them to the paths of learning within which their academics and cultures fall.
The event commenced with an opening address from the Program Chair, Ar. Ryan Benaoe; he talked about the importance of joining such student organizations and how it is beneficial in creating a bridge to the duly recognized organization for Registered and Licensed Architects, the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP). Subsequently, the newly inducted officers of UAPSA UB-ARCS were introduced so that students become familiar with whom to reach out to when they have inquiries about the organization. Finally, the organization has been introduced through a structured agenda comprising an informative discussion about the organization’s mission and vision, as well as events and perks for its members.
In addition, this organization split the learners into groups randomly where they were given an activity on group dynamics whereby they prepared a cheer and yell that was presented by each group in front of everyone else. Icebreakers such as these afford first-year students the opportunities to create acquaintances as well as friendships among themselves, thus facilitating a supportive atmosphere for their academic growth.
The AR-KITAKITS: Freshmen Orientation Day organized by the architecture organization is central to orienting incoming freshmen about the intricacies associated with this course. By guiding students into both their academic journey, careers pathways and showing them how they can become part of a community, it sets them up for future life in college; especially during the early years when development is rapid. Coming off from freshman orientation day, freshmen will have gained insight and networks that will help them succeed in what they wish to become as aspiring architects.
Written by Maria Luz Nieveras
