Live via social networking site Facebook, the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) conducted the first-ever webinar for Ateneo de Naga University (ADNU) college students, on 19 June 2020. Generating almost 2,000 views as of writing, the said livestreamed activity tackled the topic, “Coping 101: Adapting to the New Normal.”
The OSA invited two speakers from the ADNU community, namely Marie Elaine A. Florece, director of the College Guidance Center, and John Michael M. Revilla, a guidance counselor from the Senior High School Department. Because of the government’s directive to ban “social gatherings,” the OSA decided to make use of social media and video conferencing applications to continue its formation programs during the pandemic.
Florece started the webinar with her presentation, “Understanding Stress and Coping in the time of Covid-19”; she discussed the changes and challenges that students have faced and will be facing under the “new normal” of living. She discussed the varied manifestations related to stress that may be experienced by students. Finally, she offered practical tips that students can apply whenever they are stressed.
Revilla, on the other hand discussed coping mechanisms that student leaders can use during this pandemic through his talk, “Finding Calm in the Chaos of Daily Life.” He noted that everyone is immune to stress but each person has different tolerance levels or reactions to stress; some may be able to cope immediately, while others have difficulty doing so. He urged student leaders to always monitor themselves first before extending their help to their members, classmates, and friends.
Several student leaders from various organizations partook in the open forum; sharing their insights and reactions as well as asking tips or clarifications from the speakers. The open forum was facilitated by Jeryll Caayao, Program Officer for Student Leadership Development, and Rodolfo Virtus Jr., Director of Student Affairs.
The webinar was conducted with the help and support from the following: Office of Mission and Identity, University Library, and Office of the President.
