ISR UPLB launches program to take care of int’l students’ well-being while studying at UPLB

The UPLB International Student Relations (ISR) under the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs (OVCSA) revamped the program ISkuwentuhan into Tipanan: Improving Well-being and Finding Solace in Friendship Beyond Academics. Tipanan aims to provide support, relaxation, and guidance activities in managing and alleviating stress experienced by international students. 

The difficulties the international students experience associated with studying and being far from their home country can take a toll on their overall well-being. This led ISR to conceive a program where students can take a breather from their usual busy university life.

ISR strategically kicked off Tipanan two weeks before the end of second semester classes with activities scheduled on days and times when most international students are available to attend. 

Acculturation Night, the first Tipanan activity, was held on May 10, 2024, at the Makiling Ballroom Hall. Jeremiah Simisi, the International Students Association (ISA) president and country representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, opened the program with a short message for his fellow international students. Simisi cited the importance of gathering together to strengthen the international community at the university. 

ISR prepared a Filipino film, and food and drinks. Through the featured film, the international students got a glimpse of the Filipino family culture. It was also a night of socialization with the international students sharing laughs and their own stories.

On the following week, May 16, 2024, the international students took their minds off academics and challenged themselves in the Tipanan: Brain Exercise activity. With a game of Perdigana, the students showed their competitive side by playing the Filipino reverse checkers board game. Aside from the game, the international students also tried Filipino street foods and sang their favorite songs through videoke.

The semester’s Tipanan concluded with an action-packed feature film from India that was screened on June 7, 2024, at the Sunken Lobby of the Student Union Building.  Satyabanta Sanjebam, the country representative of India, gave a short introduction about the film and its connection to Indian traditions and culture.

Tipanan activities are scheduled to resume in the first semester of AY 2024-2025 and are expected to be conducted at least once a month.