By: Josef Miguel Monasterial
The festivities did not stop as SoCITFlix went forth on its final day of fun-filled activities last Friday, August 16, 2019. With APC promoting school-life balance, the various activities allowed the students to engage in brain stimulation and socialization. The event was then capped off with a night filled with friendship, camaraderie, and pure fun.
Photos by: Yanna Bayani
Microsoft Roadshow: Cloud Computing with Microsoft Azure
The final installment of the three-day seminar ensued in the school auditorium from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. for a talk regarding Cloud Computing.
The attendees were privileged to hear from the Developer Marketing Manager of Microsoft Philippines, Mr. Ian Christopher de Torres. He shared a comprehensive overview of Microsoft Azure, a cloud computing service which is a systematic approach to managing, processing, and storing data and information through the Internet. This contributed to the students’ computer literacy and the expansion of their scope in creating real projects that will further innovate today’s technology.
Analytics 101
After the talk, Rhea-Luz Valbuena, the Executive Director of the School of Computing and Information Technologies, took over the auditorium from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. She encouraged the students to further expand their knowledge by learning about other programming languages and skills outside their expertise. She also enlightened them about the importance of data analytics and the possibility of becoming the new ‘Avengers’ in the IT industry. She said, “Every APC student is expected to be equipped with the required skills [for global competency] and the best time to start being empowered with these trends is now.”
Cypher
Next came Cypher, which was once again held in the cafeteria from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The mechanics were simple. Decode a phrase or word by analyzing random letters, numbers, and patterns within the set time limit. APC students ranging from freshmen to sophomores participated, along with those from NU Laguna. The limited time made it challenging, adding to the fact that it required critical thinking and excellent pattern recognition when solving problems. Winners received notebooks and stickers while contestants who failed got stickers as their consolation prize.
Photos by: Kevin Balisalisa
Install Fest
With APC being a Microsoft showcase school, part of the benefits of each student is having access to the latest and greatest Microsoft Office products. This was what Install Fest had to offer. It occurred in the Microsoft Experience Hub located on the 2nd floor from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. All students were invited to participate. The Grade 11 and Freshmen students were introduced to the platform. The organizers personally assisted the attendees in activating their Microsoft accounts and in updating their Windows OS.
Life of a Scholar in Australia
SoCIT Executive Director Rhea-Luz Valbuena took over in the auditorium yet again for another seminar, lasting from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The talked focused on her experiences as a scholar at Carnegie Mellon University – Australia. She shared the following pointers:
1. Take a break and treat yourself.
2. Always remember your roots.
3. Stay motivated.
4. Don’t be a señorita. Work hard.
SoCIT Night
The SoCITFlix ended with a banger as the students coming from multiple organizations gathered at the cafeteria from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to celebrate both a successful SoCIT Fest and the end of their midterms. Hosted by Jes Lauta and Allen Purto from APC Speaks, the students enjoyed the party and the performances from Kuatro Kantos, Crown of Thorns, and Mntklya. The winners for Mr. and Ms. SoCIT were also announced that night and were given their awards. Hailed as Mr. SoCIT 2019 was Drexel Joseph P. Dejero from BSCS-SS 191, together with Ms. SoCIT 2019 Cheska Janine Odango from BSIT-MI 192.
Photos by: Yanna Bayani