Never Forget

Today, I went to the 2012 Engineering Recognition Rites.

669 candidates for graduation from the College of Engineering

I was planning to ditch because (1) I do not have a dress to wear, (2) I find it difficult to wake up early these days and (3) I was afraid of getting bored during the three to four-hour program.

However, because I confirmed attendance and because I was able to find a white dress with sleeves (fits me very well and was on sale), I decided to go anyway.

It was indeed awkward having to sit at the stage where every student and parent can see what you're doing during the whole program (hence that photo above) BUT it was also very nice to see friends, orgmates and most importantly MY STUDENTS graduating (and some of them with honors too). Unlike what I thought, I didn't actually get bored during the program. And I guess the money for the new dress and the effort for waking up early was worth it.

To the students who will be officially graduating tomorrow, I may not have much experience to be able to say anything but I will say these anyway...

Never forget to uphold HONOR and EXCELLENCE.

Never forget KNOWLEDGE, PROGRESS and SERVICE.

Never forget that Filipinos pay taxes just so you can study at THE UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES. Don't put their taxes to waste. You are an Iskolar ng Bayan. IT IS YOUR DUTY TO SERVE THE COUNTRY.

And finally, CONGRATULATIONS and GOOD LUCK DO YOUR BEST!