Mangaluru: St Aloysius Pre-University College conducted a comprehensive Orientation Programme for first-year PU students, offering them a meaningful introduction to pre-university life while fostering values, life skills, and personal growth.
Designed to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving world, the programme featured a series of interactive and insightful sessions led by distinguished academicians, counsellors, and professionals from diverse fields.
Experts guide students on success and self-belief
The programme began with an inspiring session by Dr. Surfraz J. Hasim, Principal of PA First Grade College, on the topic “The Subconscious Edge: Unlocking the Secrets of Peak Performance and Success.”
He encouraged students to believe in their potential and explained how thoughts, attitudes, and self-belief influence personal and academic success. Through practical techniques such as positive affirmations, visualisation, and goal-setting, he motivated students to build resilience, remain focused, and strive for excellence.
Addressing the opportunities and challenges of the digital era, Ms. Mona Mendonca, Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of History at St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), delivered a session titled “Upholding Integrity in the Age of AI.”
She urged students to use artificial intelligence responsibly and emphasised the importance of originality, critical thinking, and academic honesty. Her session encouraged students to view technology as a learning aid rather than a substitute for effort and creativity.
Sessions explore career opportunities and personal growth
Commerce students participated in a session by Dr. Preethi titled “Realm of Commerce,” which highlighted career opportunities in finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, economics, law, and fintech.
She encouraged students to dream ambitiously and explore the diverse possibilities available in the commerce stream.
Adding an element of inspiration, practising advocate and soft-skills trainer Ms. Caroline Maria Pais shared her professional experiences and spoke about perseverance, purpose, and maintaining a positive outlook while facing challenges.
Her motivational address resonated strongly with students as they embarked on a new phase of their academic journey.
Focus on values and holistic development
Helping students adapt to college life, Dr. Vidya Vinutha D’Souza, Head of the PG Department of Social Work at St Aloysius University, conducted a session titled “New Campus, New Choices and New You.”
Introducing students to the Jesuit ideals of Magis, service, and Cura Personalis, she encouraged them to make thoughtful decisions, embrace opportunities, and develop into compassionate and responsible individuals.
The importance of interpersonal skills was highlighted by Dr. Malini N. Hebbar, Principal of Swastika National Business School, during her session on “Soft Skills for Teens.”
Through interactive discussions and practical examples, she stressed the significance of communication, teamwork, emotional intelligence, and professional etiquette in both academic and personal life.
Students encouraged to lead beyond limits
In a future-focused session titled “Lead Beyond Limits,” Dr. S. Ruban, Associate Professor and Dean, School of Engineering, St Aloysius University, encouraged students to think beyond conventional boundaries.
Speaking about emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics, he emphasised the importance of leadership, creativity, adaptability, and ethical innovation in shaping the future.
Recognising the growing influence of technology in everyday life, Ms. Bakyalakshmi, Student Counsellor at St Aloysius PU College, addressed students on “Scroll, Play, Repeat: Digital Balance and Wellbeing.”
She discussed the impact of excessive screen time and shared practical strategies to maintain a healthy balance between digital engagement and personal wellbeing.
Students also benefited from a session on “Mastering Life Skills” by Mr. Prathik B. Rai, Student Counsellor, who highlighted the importance of decision-making, time management, goal-setting, and effective communication as essential foundations for academic achievement and personal fulfilment.
The orientation programme concluded on an inspiring note, helping students reflect on their aspirations, build confidence, and connect with the values that define the Aloysian spirit. Organisers noted that the initiative served as more than an introduction to college life, providing students with guidance, motivation, and a strong foundation for their future journey.
