“Embrace knowledge, ignite potential, and journey towards excellence!”
Mangaluru: St Aloysius PU College held an orientation programme to welcome the newly admitted I PU students. The event aimed to introduce the students to the college’s culture and traditions and facilitate their integration into the college community. Over 2,000 students participated, with the programme tailored separately for the Science stream and Commerce and Arts streams.
The programme commenced with the dignitaries lighting the ceremonial lamp, followed by a solemn prayer song sung by the college choir. An inter-religious prayer service followed, after which the second-year PU students extended a graceful welcome to the gathering through a classical dance performance.
Rev. Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, the Principal, welcomed the first-year PU students and expressed excitement about the new experiences that lie ahead. Highlighting the institution’s rich legacy and the success of the alumni and he introduced the college’s motto, “Lucet et Ardet,” explaining that students should “shine to enkindle the light for others in the true spirit of love.”
Fr Clifford explained the Jesuit value of ‘MAGIS’, which means striving for more and not being content with minimal achievements, thus encouraging students to aim for excellence.
The Principal highlighted the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, character formation, and social responsibility. He opined that a student’s time in college should be defined by their dedication, hard work, time management, and willingness to sacrifice comfort for greater goals.
He stated the need to improve one’s extracurricular skills and the significance of breaking barriers to promote harmony.
Fr Clifford concluded with an inspiring story of a sculptor who chiselled stones into beautiful idols, illustrating the willingness to accept corrections from the mentors and allow themselves to be shaped into magnificent individuals, much like a stone accepting the sculptor’s blows to be transformed into an attractive carving.
Dr Deepa Kotari, a distinguished psychologist and independent mental health trainer from Mangalore, addressed I PU Science students, sharing valuable insights. She used the British cycling team’s example to illustrate how incremental steps lead to significant outcomes.
Dr Kotari emphasized five key points: embracing change, cultivating patience, practising self-discipline, recognizing failures as part of success, and prioritizing knowledge acquisition. She highlighted the impact of small changes, the importance of patience, and completing tasks.
Dr Kotari encouraged students to view failure as a learning opportunity, suggesting “Failure Fridays” to celebrate and learn from failures. Lastly, she stressed thorough research and informed decision-making to shape their future.
Dr Preethi Keerthi Dsouza, a distinguished expert in Human Resources and Talent Management, led the Commerce and Arts Orientation, reflecting on the collective journey and valuable lessons learned.
Drawing inspiration from APJ Abdul Kalam, she urged students to strive for excellence and avoid low aspirations. Through anecdotes like Arthur Robert Ashe Jr.’s life, she emphasized maintaining faith during challenges and viewing setbacks as growth opportunities.
Dr Dsouza stressed that one’s background doesn’t define potential and highlighted the importance of personal development and effective use of skills.
Focusing on education and career planning, Dr Dsouza underscored the significance of higher education and a proactive approach to career planning, advocating for pursuing passions and developing diverse skills, including vocational subjects.
Dr Dsouza encouraged self-belief, intrinsic motivation, and stepping out of comfort zones for success.
Emphasizing resilience and unwavering faith in oneself and a higher purpose, she concluded by urging self-investment and personal growth. Her overarching theme, “believe, achieve, succeed,” inspired students to embrace challenges with determination and strive for excellence in all endeavors.
Campus Minister Fr. Anthony Derick SJ, Vice Principals Muralikrishna GM and Vilma Fernandes, Deans Dr Pradeep M and Kiran Shetty, and the convenor Deepthi Murugeshan were present on the dais.
Niha Fahim from the Department of Chemistry and Verina Tauro from the Department of English compered the program.
The program concluded with the harmonious rendition of the National Anthem.
