The Ateneo de Naga University Graduate School (AdNU GS) held its Orientation on Thesis and Dissertation Writing on August 16, 2025, at the Alingal Function Room, Alingal Building, gathering graduating students from different programs as part of its continuing efforts to strengthen research culture and uphold academic excellence.
The orientation aimed to provide students with clear academic expectations, a streamlined understanding of the research process, and the confidence to pursue their thesis and dissertation work, which is the culminating requirement of their degree programs.
Dr. Ronaldo SP. Elicay, one of the Graduate School’s Program Coordinators, served as the resource speaker. He presented the Graduate School’s newly adopted research outline and walked participants through the step-by-step process of academic writing. His discussion covered critical aspects such as formulating research problems, integrating theoretical frameworks, ensuring methodological rigor, and writing insightful discussions.
Beyond technical guidelines, Dr. Elicay stressed the importance of perseverance, academic honesty, and originality. He reminded the students that thesis and dissertation writing is not merely a requirement for graduation but a contribution to their respective fields and society.
The three-hour session allowed the students to raise their concerns in the open forum. Questions ranged from formatting and defense procedures to the selection of relevant research topics and balancing academic work with professional responsibilities.
Dr. Elicay encouraged students to draw inspiration from subjects they had engaged with in their coursework and to connect these with current issues and trends in their disciplines, as well as the research agenda of AdNU.
Through this initiative, the AdNU Graduate School reaffirmed its mission to nurture competent, ethical, and research-oriented professionals who will become leaders in their fields while embodying the Ignatian values of excellence and service.
Prepared by:
Christianne O. Romano
Student, PhD Language and Literacy Development
Ateneo de Naga University Graduate School
