Sunday reflection (or rant)...

 ...on the beauty of gratitude (and an 'unsettling disruption').

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by PAM

In my world of Education 'industry', at least, this small part that is still not fully changed (or corrupted) by artificial intelligence (AI) to an unfeeling (too) data-centered 'industry'... where human connection and relation remains to be the means by which real intelligence is uncovered, nurtured towards natural flourishing, and enabled to help constitute the greater good, it is, indeed, a beautiful experience to be receiving a token of gratitude from those with whom we forged real connections. 

I feel that we achieved a little success today.  I received an email from a former student of ours at the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) who just passed the November 2024 Licensure Examination for Civil Engineers.  She started her journey in the Faculty as an Electrical Engineering student but decided that she wanted to pursue Civil Engineering instead.  She then applied to change program.  The Faculty is a student-centered academic unit (AU) that implements programs that support and enable students to grow to mature individuals that are able to discern and identify their strengths as basis of their decisions moving forward.  As such, we guided her through the process of changing her program, and she did so successfully.  When we let her know that her application was approved, she expressed delight and promised that she will become a full-fledged civil engineer.  And she did.

"Ever Grateful, Ever Hopeful"

And what was the first thing (okay, maybe second... or third.  Uhm, I gotta strong feeling that it's really fourth) she did after passing the Licensure Exam?  Well, she sent that email above.

I always consider my profession as an educator and higher education institution (HEI) administrator as one that requires the accomplishment of so many (many, many) tasks... that are mostly 'thankless'.  We do them anyway... well, I do them, anyway, because I do believe they are necessary and that they are worth-doing.  The worth is not immediately realized but when it is realized... it's just the greatest of things... well, at the very least, among the greatest of things.  There have been (many, many) times when I thought that our efforts in doing what we do are in vain.  The 'system' is slowly 'diminishing' educators as mere 'facilitators' of learning whose place is on the 'sidelines' while learners take the center stage with all those blinding beams of light focused on them while the fakest of fake social media expect them to be perfect otherwise they are cancelled, gaslighted or just tossed to the pack of trolls.  Uhm... it's no wonder why learners suffer from so much anxiety.  Learning has become so daunting than ever before for students... that many of them fake learning... and they have a 'great' help in doing this: AI.  All they have to do is take to social media, and post things that flatter many... including themselves.  For some, mostly themselves.  And when they are unable to sustain the flattery, their minds and spirits get gnawed by anxiety... and send them spiraling to depression.  They suffer... and for what?  Exactly - for nothing!  It is because nothing much in that fake platform is ever true or sincere - 'enhanced' this, 'enhanced' that.  And yet 'the system' pushes learners to its claws... and away from learning deeply, thoroughly, and meaningfully... and grow in gratitude, hope and love.      

Educators are no longer regarded as 'partners' in the process of learning... learners' guide and companion in the beautiful journey of discovery... of continuous learning.  After all, with all the fakery out there, all the more that guidance is necessary.  However, we are expected to merely facilitate learning... anticipate learners' needs and be there when they cry for help... like paid nannies, poorly paid nannies, that is.  We are no longer regarded as scholars, as scientists who inspire learners to explore the unknown, uncover the truth - whole truth and nothing but the truth.  And yet, we are expected to 'deliver the goods' in terms of research publications - products of scholarly pursuits, that send the HEI that we serve to the top of global university rankings.  Odd?  No, not just odd... it's ironic!  

So much irony these days, indeed.  We invented AI to make our lives 'easier', and yet, the use of AI usually complicates our lives.  Many of us lose the meaning of life (and good living) altogether.  As we attempt to 'simplify' our lives through AI, our lives tend to become more complicated... and we expose ourselves to so much vulnerability, insecurity.  And, as we load AI with the power to 'read our minds' and 'listen to our thoughts'... we feel more unsafe than ever before.  No, I am not against AI per se.  I believe that 'benign AI' is the product of human being's authentic intelligence and the benevolent desire to elevate the quality of human life.  However, because of greed and the maniacal desire of others for recognition, fame, glory and money (and just the mere ignorance by some - plain and simple), AI has become an 'unsettling disruption' that sets fire to the natural order in human lives.  As such, I am against using AI in ways that allow the decaying of our authentic humanity; and I absolutely oppose the promotion of the 'wonders' of AI that mislead the younger generations, depriving them to experience the authentic beauty of human life and their natural development to the wonderful individuals that they are meant to become.      

🎶 "Most of freedom and of pleasure

Nothing ever lasts forever

Everybody wants to rule the world." 🎶

Despite my frustrations in the overhyping of AI in the most misguided ways these days, I remain hopeful that this product of authentic human intelligence will be used wisely by the next generations.  Not all is lost, and there is much yet to be gained.  

Happy Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary!

***

Image credit:  The content of the screenshot email belongs to my former student.

***

Word of the Day: Festschrift

A celebration!
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by PAM


This morning, I joined a 'celebration'... a celebration of the life and achievements of an educator, a brilliant scientist and a formidable scholar who is beloved and respected by a multitude of current and former students, colleagues, and friends.

A celebration of a Scholar's life and achievements... 

...a celebration of the joy of being an educator.

  
Indeed, if you commit to pursuing excellence in what you love most in this life, enjoying the journey, spreading love as you travel... appreciating the people you meet, offering them your sincere friendship, and appreciating the 'scenic views' along the way, keeping a snapshot of each in your mind, and in your heart... indeed, life would reward you with the same appreciation and love you spread as you go through life.  I consider myself to be truly fortunate to have worked with the one person whom I have always admired from afar.  I thought I will never be worthy to be a part of his circle, and yet, somehow, fate put me within his circle of influence... and it changed my life and the way I view things forever - for the better.

This morning, as part of the 75th Year celebration of the Graduate School of the University of Santo Tomas (UST), a Festschrift, in honor of the most accomplished scientist and educator in UST, Prof. Fortunato B. Sevilla III, Ph. D., was launched. The 'Festschrift' launched was a volume of Acta Manilana, the official publication of UST in Science and Technology, containing 71 papers, 40 of which are contributed by Prof. Sevilla's colleagues and collaborators abroad.  The Festschrift was a tribute to Prof. Sevilla's work as a scientist and his contributions to the advancement of Chemistry education and S&T research in UST... and in the Philippines.

Congratulations, Sir Fortune!  We love you!

*** 

S & T is the coolest thing...

...without a doubt!
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by PAM

I love writing and reading, listening to music and appreciating art immensely... but there's nothing like seeing a useful idea brought to life and made to work in an innovative way through the Science and Technology platform.  This is why I love Engineering... the problem analysis, the design of the most appropriate solution... troubleshooting... breaking things down to their smallest elements, and then putting the elements back together again, this time with added elements (or fewer elements), in order for the thing to function more efficiently, and more appropriately for a given purpose.  It's always exhilarating to be taking a deep breath and putting the switch on, and experiencing a mix of nerve-wracking emotions in that split of a second before the switch does its job, and putting the thing to work... or not!  Aw, priceless!  

A mix of everything, 'cooked' in the pot of S&T = fun time!

This is the reason why I look forward to "Engineering Week" in my University... a week-long exhibition of the best stuff that the Faculty of Engineering came up with in a span of one year... and celebrating the foundation of the FIRST Engineering School in the Philippines.  There's an array of electronic innovative gadgets that are useful for biomedical applications, manufacturing automation, risk and disaster control, and smart vehicle operations, just to name a few.  There's an array of new products, from personal care products to food, from household products to 'smart materials', you name it, they've got it all!  And then, you have a variety of commercial cars with modified features... modifications that were done by the students themselves.  Then you have a variety of impressive structural designs - innovative, climate change-resilient, and aesthetically deserving of appreciation.  There are incredible array of computer and smart phone apps... digital solution to management problems. Too many to mention... all guaranteeing a week-long fascination!  And, in all of the wonderful exhibits, the Thomasian three C's are all on display:  Competence, Commitment, and Compassion.

The added benefit is I work in that Faculty! :)  Therefore, it's doubly special.   

Ah, I love my job!  :)

***

Saturday photo

Lucky to be a part of an important event.

Earlier this week, a colleague and I had a great opportunity to be a part of an important event for Electronics Engineers in the country.  The Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) spent the morning with their colleagues in the Industry, Academe and the Government to mark an important milestone: the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Electronics Product Development Center (EPDC).  The Center is to be built in a strategic location: at the Metals Industry Research and Development Center (MIRDC) Compound in Bicutan, Taguig City, right across the DOST Compound.  The EPDC project is funded by the DOST through the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), which is headed by Dr. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara as its very able Executive Director.  Dr. Guevara is former Dean of the College of Engineering of the University of the Philippines-Diliman.  The event was attended by the dynamic DOST Secretary, Hon. Mario G. Montejo.    

Once operational, the EPDC is expected to help boost the country's electronics export revenue by product development and innovation as well as manpower training in the various sectors of the Electronics Industry.  It is expected to lower electronic products cost in the country by boosting local manufacture as product development and innovation is strengthened and manpower skills are further enhanced.

I know, this blog is described as "(almost) never about work", but I can't help it... it was such an exciting event, I had to make sure I mark it somewhere in my "e-diary" (this blog).  I, of course, hope and pray that the EPDC becomes operational soon... and my University becomes one of its biggest partners - for national progress.

Talk about concentrating on good things... and blocking negative vibrations radiated towards us.  We build a shield using inspiring deeds and pursuits such as the EPDC, and use that shield to protect us from being consumed by negative thoughts around.

We march forward!  :)

***

Saturday photo

by PAM

Faith + Perseverance + Brilliance = A Dream Realized

Speaking of "Fields of gold", the kind that joyfully sparkle with brilliance... I had a chance to walk in one again today - yep, I'm that lucky!  Not sure if I deserve it though.  ;)

It all started with a little dream... Serj (Serjan Abalos), Nica (Angelica Francisco) and Sarah (Sarah Alyssa Cruz) were dreaming to represent the University in a prestigious research contest, like the amazing alumni of our research lab did last year.  Their work was on the production and physico-chemical characterization of yogurt made from heat-treated carabao's milk with adjusted whey protein-to-casein ratio.  They worked very hard... even on weekends and holidays.  Their faith - in God, in themselves, and in one another - grew stronger each day as they persevered through all the 'good-data' and 'bad-data' days, and it made them believe that they can do it.  I am fortunate to have seen their transformation from curious-kids-with-a-dream to humble-little-experts-in-the-making in that little lab of ours... and it's incredible! 

About two weeks ago, their prayer was answered... they got qualified in the Championship Round of the "Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers National Undergraduate Research Contest 2013"!  Unfortunately, pressing demands from work prevented me from experiencing the joy of seeing their final transformation to young experts, first hand, as they presented the results of their research work to a national audience. :(  But it felt wonderful to receive the news that their hard work paid off.  They bagged the first runner-up trophy in a fierce competition!  I almost flipped with happiness when I learned about it! All the sacrifices, missed weekends, and exhaustive struggles to get the job done were so worth it. I hope that this experience would be a source of inspiration for them, and a source of strength and faith when they finally venture in the 'real world' and face some tough challenges.

Ah, the perks of being in the Academe - so many priceless moments! :)  Yep, I'm one very proud research mentor and thesis adviser! :)  Woohoo!

Congratulations, guys!  Good job! 

***

QOTD

QOTD #10:  On  batteries, innovation and mentoring
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by PAM

 

"In a battery, I strive to maximize electrical potential.  When mentoring, I strive to maximize human potential."

- Prof. Donald Sadoway, Ph. D. 
  Energy Engineer and the John F. Elliot Professor of Materials Chemistry
  Massachusetts Institute of Technology ( MIT)
  via TIME magazine, "The 100 Most Influential People in the World"

This makes me miss teaching my beloved "Innovation Course" in the University.  I am particularly proud of that Course just because I can say that I built most of it from scratch.  The challenge of turning what used to be a boring Course into something that is innovative and fresh was truly exhilarating.  Seeing students glow upon discovering their own strengths and talents as they clear the innovation "hurdles" along the way brought absolute fulfillment. 

So, why am I sounding nostalgic-and-all over this?  It's because, for the first time, since 2007, I am not teaching that Innovation Course, and  I miss it.  I miss interacting with students directly.  I guess, this is just another trade-off involved when sitting on "big chairs", you lose your daily dose of merry wonderment in the classrooms and research labs, and the tremendous joy of watching incredible talents unfolding and innovative minds lighting up and coming to life to bring forth solutions to pressing problems right before your very eye as the semester proceeds.  Oh, well.... 

Since I am already publicly lamenting over not teaching the Innovation Course this Academic Year anyway, let me just go all the way and 'wallow in grief', and turn pathetically green with envy over this...

"Perhaps, overlooked, Volta's invention of the battery, for the first time, also demonstrated the utility of a professor.....  So, you see, the liquid metal battery story is more than an account of inventing technology, it's a blue print for inventing inventors."

Aaawww...sweet!  Too good, too good... and I feel left out! :(

The happy part is, these "big chair days" will not last forever.  One day, they will come to an end, hopefully after a few of those many "challenging puzzles" on the equally "big tables" have been figured out... and all systems are up and running, and humming healthily.  Therefore, I look forward to teaching that Course again - the sooner, the better!  :)  In the meantime, I'll try to find comfort in the great challenge of filling out this "big chair" in my own little humble way, and savor the opportunities to mentor "big kids" from where I currently stand - around the vicinity of the "big chair".  Yep, I'm still uncomfortable sitting on the cold "bigness" of it... in fact, I think I will always find it "uncomfortable", just because I'm just a simple dudette with simple needs and wants...  I just want to set foot on planet Mars, that's all. ;)

Alright, let's get those "puzzles" figured out then so we could go back to the classroom/research lab soon... aw, yeah!  :)  Here we go.... one challenge/puzzle at a time.  We'll get to the finish line eventually... and then we set out to run the more interesting run, the run that all engineers and scientists committed their professional lives to: the "hard science" for "good life" run!  Leeeezdoit! :)

***
Video Credits:  Thanks, YouTube, for the video links.  

November Agenda: 'Breakaway'...

...from what holds us back in fulfilling our possibilities. ==================================================================== 
by PAM

Make a wish, take a chance, make a change... and breakaway!

Nope, I don't know for sure what exactly this "new adventure" has in store for me and my "travel companions".  Even with maps, compass and well-studied books about the challenging trail, none can prepare anyone to the twists and turns along the way - we know that.  Nevertheless, yep, we're spreading our wings and flying away.  

I have been to a few huge "expeditions" before.  They were all difficult and, in fact, some were close to tormenting.  Just the same, every journey has always been exciting... the experience, always rewarding - in new discoveries, new friendships, and strengthened faith in God.  And crossing the finish line always brought incredible feeling of fulfillment - more so, because they were shared by the worthy people and institutions whose interests I held close to my heart while I struggled to complete the journey.  Therefore, even when anxiety and self-doubt unfailingly weighed me down, I always looked forward to the next adventure - with true gusto!  

This next adventure is going to involve big challenges - almost daunting in breadth and depth.  It's going to be a bumpy ride, and I'd fall down many times, that's for sure.  And yet, I'm sure too, that it will also be interesting, exciting and absorbing - in breadth and depth of new things that I am bound to learn together with my companions in the journey, and the changes that will effect the fulfillment of our possibilities.  And, the outcome could be incredibly joyful, too - in many ways that I'm sure are unknown to us now.  Aside from "combat drills" and "battleground experience", I'm bringing a lot of "ammunitions" with me: prayers, good advice from experienced, wise and supportive mentors, and a lot of support and love from family and friends.  Therefore, I'll keep movin' forward no matter the impediments - one little step at a time... ya can count on it, too!

Alright then... bring it!

*** 
Breaking though that Examination Barrier

Speaking of huge challenges, the Chemical Engineer Licensure Examination given by the Professional Regulation Commission of the Philippines is coming very soon.  It is the exam that will give our graduates the license to sign-on as professional engineers... and, therefore, reiterates the excellent training they get in the University.  

I give the same advice to our Chem.E. Batch 2012:  Don't hold back.  Set out to fulfill your possibilities - your many possibilities.  Go for it, guys!  Godspeed....

***
Breaking through the top of the rankings

So, what makes a University the Most Important in the World?  It's Tech Entrepreneurship, that's what.  And, that's according to Chris Vogel, who is banging the gong for the newest #1 University in the World, according to QS: the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or just "MIT" to their many fans.  MIT, considered the hallowed ground of geekiness by the proud, card-carrying S&T geeks, is the University to beat this year.  Ah, finally, a Technology Institute rose to the top!  This only means one thing:  the Technology World is alive and kicking - in a winning way, too!  In 'this World', innovation is the name of the game, and entrepreneurship is the challenge that's waiting to be overcome.  And with all the daunting challenges of this century, the Tech Entrepreneurs have the potential to become the most important human beings in the global economy.  MIT is showing the world how to 'create' these TEs... must we heed, and follow their lead?

***
Breaking through the sporting boundaries

So, Lionel Messi, is the newest father in the football sphere... as of November 2!  We heard that FC Barcelona is ready to offer to sign the two-day old Thiago Messi in La Masia - where Leo was honed to become the living legend that he is now.  Aside from this happy news, the older (feels odd saying that, considering Leo is merely 25 years old) Messi completed his career 300-goal haul in Barca's contest against Rayo Vallecano last week, which they won with a manita, 5-0.  Messi's brace of goals allowed him to break through the 300-goal barrier, reaching 301 - a career high.  So, that's Messi making another case for himself as a worthy recipient of a 4th Ballon d'Or - in a row!  He just won the golden boot, too. Ah, when it rains, it does pour! Barca, on the other hand, remains seated at the top of the La Liga rankings.  Oy, Tito Vilanova, excellent job!

***

Saturday photo

S&T junkies' field day!

We had a great time joining the Department of Science and Technology's "2012 National Science and Technology Week" at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.  The activity's theme was: "Science, Technology and Innovation: Working Together for Growth and Development".  


I was fortunate enough to get a "duty" at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) booth on the event's fifth day. Don't let the photos above fool you, I took those when the day was ending, the huge crowd was already gone.  Considering it was already the fifth day, it is very reassuring to know that "S&T junkiness" is alive and well in the Philippines!  The exhibits were fantastic, from hi-tech electronic stuff to green building models, to agri-related innovation, to process technology whoa-inducing stuff, to biotech huh?-come-again wonders, to food and food-related things - all from different parts of the country.  Oh, and I bought cheese making stuff. Hurrah!  :)  


It rained like mad after we left SMX yesterday evening - Friday the 13th.  The streets were all heaving desperately to contain the wild downpour... and the usually 15-20 minute travel time from SMX to the UST Research Center became a three-hour fun exchange of stories between old and new friends!  I never thought getting stuck in heavy traffic in flooded streets can be that enjoyable though... I guess it's all about who you're stuck with. :) I thought I'd post something here to remember it by later, and remind myself to join again next time... floods and traffic notwithstanding. :)


*** 

"Ignite"!

It finally came to "life"!  Woohoo!
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by PAM



A dream and vision realized... by persistence and labor of love.


It took a while... but the dream finally came true... and through! 

The maiden issue of "Ignite", the Thomasian Chemical Engineering Product Innovation Magazine, is already out in limited circulation.  The magazine is primarily the Department's yearly 'product portfolio' of sorts, which features products exhibited in the yearly "UST Chemical Engineering-Rebisco Product Innovation Challenge + Mini Expo".  It also contains feature articles on the event and the winners of the Challenge.  The maiden issue features products from the 2011 edition of the Mini Expo dubbed as "InnoVision", organized and participated in by the UST Chem. E. Batch 2012 - the Neo-Centennial Batch - under the very able leadership of Mr. Aaron Joseph J. Peñano, Miss Heidy V. Cruz, Mr. Emmanuel P. Jimenez and Mr. John Lester C. Lim.

"A Benavides..."

...is their gift this year.
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by PAM

"Gift" for our Department and our lab from "my kids"... :)

  

Benavides Outstanding Achievement Award
For Outstanding Achievement of Regional, National or International Importance.  A tribute to the pioneering spirit of the founder of the University, Fr. Miguel de Benavides, O.P., the award is conferred on student(s) whose performance in regional, national or international competitions, conferences or congresses symbolizes the University's commitment to excellence.

Last Monday's excitement from the opening of our "2012 UST Chemical Engineering Product Innovation Challenge + Mini Expo" quadrupled when our Department Chair shared with me the happy news that my research students were chosen to receive "a Benavides" this year, and asked if I could let them all know.  I said 'yes'... but not after giving a little excited squeal! ;)

The good news was confirmed on the next day, the second day of our Expo, by our Faculty Secretary... with a
'My kids' are in the news... :)letter from the University's Office of the Secretary General, informing us that the Food Engineering Research Group of the Department of Chemical Engineering and the Research Center for the Natural and Applied Sciences (RCNAS) has been chosen to receive the Benavides Award - Group Category for Outstanding Achievement this year.  The Group won the First, Second and Fourth Places in the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE) National Undergraduate Research Contest last month, and it is for these achievements that a Benavides is being awarded to them.  This time, I was already emotionally composed enough to say a (what I hope was a) dignified-sounding, 'thanks, sir'. :)  Unfortunately, it was an extremely busy day (and evening, too) that I was not able to pass the info to my students until really late via text message. They were absolutely excited, of course! :)

"Innovention" - Day 2

Lift off!  Houston, we're on orbit... aw, yeah!  :)
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by PAM


When your efforts are supported and appreciated by Science and Technology Innovation stalwarts in the campus and in the country...

Tell me who your supporters are... and I'll tell you 'what' you are! :)

...does that mean, you are actually doing something along the innovation line, too... and, perhaps, doing a few things right?  Aw, gosh, we sure hope we are!  :)  "Innovention", the 2012 edition of the "UST Chemical Engineering-Rebisco Product Innovation Challenge + Mini Expo", was such a fantastic feat, and it's hard to keep joy hinged on jubilation alone.  Therefore... oh, humility, please come!  I need you right now! :)

***
Blast-off to innovation outer space... up, up, and away!

Yes, we have managed to "throw ourselves" out there!  From a 15-entry "mini-er than mini" product development challenge and exhibit at Room 110 of the UST Engineering Building in 2008, we grew to a 52-entry "Product Innovation Challenge + Mini Expo" at the UST Qudricentennial Pavilion Covered Court this year... ah, it looks like we have managed to grow our "baby rocket" to an "Innovation Enterprise" and sent it out in a blast-off to the innovation outer space!

And it's all because... we have brilliant students - past and present!  

Ah, UST Chemical Engineering Batch 2013... how do I describe you, guys?  I wish Mr. Webster had words to describe people like you... but he hasn't!  Naturally, I haven't either!  Your unassuming and understated awesomeness limits my vocabulary... you put the 'bottomlessness' of innovation to utter shame!  Ah, and what a shame, too!



Our "INNOVENTORS"...
The UST Chemical Engineering Batch 2013... indescribable --- in an, oh, so fantastic way! :)

"Innovention" - Day 1

Kick-off!
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by PAM


So, if your day started like this...

Day 1... before the Opening Program.

...and then progressed like this, despite the rain...

Day 1... getting 'in the zone'.

...does it mean something was going right?  We sure hope so!

We give thanks... and we pray for continued guidance and the inspiring presence of the Holy Spirit in our midst.

Bring on Day 2! Go, Batch 2013!  :)

***

When it rains, it pours...

...literally and figuratively.
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by Philipina A. Marcelo


Last February 15, my undergraduate research students from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Department of Chemical Engineering competed in the National Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Research Contest, organized by the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE) and PIChE-Metro Manila Academe Chapter, in conjunction with the 73rd PIChE National Convention in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, Philippines.  All three groups that recently finished their research projects in my Food Engineering Research Lab at the Research Center for the Natural and Applied Sciences (RCNAS) at the UST Thomas Aquinas Research Complex (TARC) qualified in the final round of the contest!  So, we were "3 for 3".  A former colleague of mine, aware of my "addiction" to sports, called it a "Grand Slam".  :)  I believe it was the first time that something like this happened in my Department and at RCNAS... and I am, of course, absolutely proud to have been a part of such a wonderful feat from our undergraduate Thomasian scientists .  The students were joyfully elated and incredibly thrilled that our whole TEAM was going to the prestigious national research competition - no one was left out. Sweet!

***
Turning up the heat...

After the initial celebration for our qualification in the final round, we realized what a HUGE task it was before us... and we cringed at the prospect of  a "make or break" situation for us... there were six national finalists, three came from our group, and three will be chosen as final winners.  Therefore, we had "no right" to lose!  Dang! 

As have always been my Thomasian (con Cornellian) educator philosophy, the chance to represent UST in any competion is an incredible privilege... one that comes with an equally daunting responsibility to keep the pristine name of the University untarnished by poor
The "Amazing Race" - Research edition.showing, and an opportunity that should not be squandered with mediocrity and lack of passion for excellence.  My students knew this... and they expected me to play my usual "relentlessly pushy, bishy mentor" self - and there was no way around it.  =) 

We learned our qualification to the finals a week before the event, which was to be held in another City - more than 1 hour away from Manila... by plane!  And so, the "Amazing Race" marathon preparation began... with my blood pressure shooting up to the ceiling a few times, and the students' terrorized-meter shooting up to the skies - uhm, ahem... the whole time!  Haha...  but we did have enough "buffer" - our research team has become a "family", and the dynamics within our team are similar to family dynamics.  Plus, they know I have nothing but good intentions for them... and our University. :)  Therefore, we are all on the same page.

It was tough to coach three groups who were, in principle, competing with one another.  I had to make sure that there were no obvious differences in the quality of their posters and presentations, and in the depth of the content of their works.  But the fact that all three groups were "my kids" was the sweetest of all tough situations, I'd gladly endure it with all my heart anytime!  :)  There were sharp turns and numerous bumps in the logistic aspects of the preparation that were beyond our control... and I felt we were all deeply frustrated and almost to the point of giving up our slots in the finals... it turned out, I was
Our talented chocolate trio: PJ, Noel and Jho.the only one feeling that way.  All my students had a steel determination to get to Surigao City to compete, hardship notwithstanding!   Hmmm, passion... it was a good sign.  I heard one of them said, "God must have a reason for sending us all to the final round... it's up to us to find out what that is."  Hmmm, faith... I knew then that I had nothing to worry about.  I calmed down, gathered my wits together (including forgetting there's such thing as "UEFA Champions League" for a while.  Hehe...), and tried a, uhm, ahem... Pep Guardiola-ish coaching approach.  Sorry, I just can't help it!  ;)

To make the long story short, we made it to the rain-soaked Surigao City... a miracle on its own, because so many who have booked their flights many months before we did got stranded in various places, and didn't make it to Surigao until the second day (or on the last day, for some) of the Convention because of heavy rains that were blasting the City, and the nearby towns, causing numerous flight delays and cancellations.  Others had to be re-routed to various places, and then traveled by land for eight hours or so, putting their total travel time to 48 hours!  On the other hand, there was no major hitch in our flight going to Butuan City... and traveling by land for more than three hours - in the dark and in the rain, and on a few stretches of roads under construction - from Butuan City to Surigao City was not all that bad.  I think one of my students was right... God must have had a reason for sending the whole research team to the competition's final round because He kept us safe the whole time. 

So, game on!

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Sailing on their own...

I think that the most amazing thing in a research teacher's life is watching students stand on their own,
Our team's membrane fouling specialists:
Clang, EJ and Jen.and sail on the challenging, and sometimes even treacheous, waters of scientific research. While it is extremely nerve-wracking to train students to approach, dissect, and solve a research "puzzle", knowing that whatever they learn from you would be the ground on which they would stand as they grow their own roots in their chosen scientific field, the joy of watching them all "grown-up" and ready to take on formidable challenges in their field of study is also extremely joyfully fulfilling.  That was the kind of joy I felt as I watched my students calmly and confidently present their research findings in a competition that was meant to be won only by those with hearts brave enough to expose themselves and their work to close scrutiny by "merciless research vultures".  It was almost impossible to think that, just a few months ago, all the things they were talking about in the competition were "Greek" to them... and then, after some gruelling training, there they were, confidently educating their audience, including some seasoned scientists, about their area of study - just amazing... almost a miracle!

While other finalists where put in crucibles after their presentations, my students and I were very happy that the judges did not have tough questions to ask after their presentations, except for a mere curiosity-induced question that was sufficiently answerable by two words.  Apparently, the presentations were clear enough to warrant the highly-priced "I have no question" remarks
Our team's tough mathematical model girls:
Kiki, Joy and Shiela.from the judges - distinguished scientists all.  I have to admit, albeit embarrassing, that I got a bit emotional hearing the very nice comments from the judges after listening to my students' presentations - too flattering... and humbling.  I could only quietly utter short prayer of thanks and praises to God that I could be a part of that glorious transformation of these "kids" from merely curious students to budding scientists of boundless promise.  And, I was extremely proud to see them humbly acknowledging the flattering comments made by the judges with a mere nod of their heads, a simple - almost shy - smile, and with a quiet, "thank you, sir," before calmly walking back to their seats - no swagger, no visible elation.  That confidence and poise in a gruelling battle that could only come from deep understanding of their research topic... the grace and humility amidst flattering praises that they demonstrated in a national stage... it made my heart swell with pride. :)

When the winners were being announced, the initially neutral audience was chanting the name of our University - too sweet to our ears.  That alone made us feel like winners!  :)  When they learned that they won FIRST and SECOND places... my students hugged one another and clapped in their seats happily, still with a lot of humility.  They looked back to where I was sitting, and I forced a smile to try to keep the tears of joy from falling... and I blew them heartfelt kisses.  :) 

My goodness, what did I do to make them such good students - extremely good at what they do, but totally humble and unassuming?  Am I even part of all this?  It's too heartwarming!  It must be the "Thomasian way".  I'm totally, abosolutely proud! :)

GO, USTe!!

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A very fulfilling journey, indeed!

We figured out our research puzzles as a team at TARC, we tried our luck to get to the PIChE contest final round as a team, we traveled to Surigao as a team, we competed as a team... and we won AS A TEAM!  No one is claiming first place or second place... we captured the first and second places in the competion - AS A TEAM!  Therefore, we celebrated as a team, too!  Woohoo!  :)

My Research Students at the University of Santo Tomas Department of Chemical Engineering and The Research Center for the Natural and Applied Sciences, winning First and Second Places in the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers Undergraduate Research Contest... the third place slipped out of our grasp by a fine thread margin. Ugh!  They are:  Joy Angelique R. Alday, Mark Paolo Julius A. Consignado, Clarisse R. Domingo, Noel C. Ligero, Mary Graciela L. Maragay, Emmanuel John P. Rieza, Ma. Hezekiah Anica B. Singson, Jennifer Cathryn L. Suarez and Joanna Marie N. Yuson.  THANKS and CONGRATULATIONS, guys!  Incredible feat - your Thomasian family is very proud of you! Woohoo!


With the task fulfilled... and we were "mission accomplished" at that, we thanked God with all our hearts.  My students accepted their awards during the Opening Night of the Convention, in front of a national audience, which included distinguished licensed chemical engineers of the country, no less.  They all looked beautiful.  :)

I let my students sleep-in the following morning to regain their energy, and permitted them to "acquaint themselves" with the City as I took care of Convention business.  And then, we all let our hair loose and partied like there was no tomorrow in the Convention Fellowship Night! :)  Like what I hope I usually did in the lab... I was the "teacher" - I showed them how to have a good time - and good students as they all are, they followed my lead, and we all had a great time with all the Convention participants - dancing and singing with a live band 'til the break of dawn!  The formula is simple:  work hard... party hard!  :) 

The final song sang by the band was very apt to our TEAM's journey, "Salamat" by The Dawn.  "Kay tamis ng ating samahan... sa lungkot at kaligayahan - tunay na kaibigan, kasamang maaasahan - SALAMAT!"  Ah, what a journey!  Too sweet... too fulfilling! :)

Of course, I had to give my own technical presentation the next day... but it was alright, my students lent me a bit of their youthful energy and brilliance... and I think I didn't bore my audience too much either.  ;)

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Saturday photo

Maradjaw Karadjaw Surigao!  Salamat, Karadjaw!

Thank you, Surigao, for the wonderful memories... you have been very kind to us - my students, colleagues and I - even if your weather was a bit 'moody' while we were there. :)  You gave my students great winning moments, the
Almost a clean 'sweep'....exhilaration of adrenalin rush, immeasurable happiness and fits of heartfelt laughter, incredibly warm memories of friendship and teamwork, exciting adventures and youthful fun, and the awesomeness of faith that can put one's heart on fire to believe that, indeed, everything is possible with hardwork... and in God - all invaluable lessons in life.  Thank you for this joyful sense of fulfillment that fills our hearts - now a vast reservoir of determination to keep going and to keep believing that, for as long as we keep our intentions pure and unselfish, God will help us find the way to "Victoryville" - all in His greater glory.

We hope that you would open your arms to us again soon... next time, we hope your weather will let us explore that piece of paradise on your lovely waters - Siargao!  Thank you!! 


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Sunday foodie

Food + Laughter + Singing = Sweet bonding moment
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by Philipina A. Marcelo

Three great things today: (1) Finally! After a looooong time, I am back in this little corner of my blog. It's a great time to be back, too, 'cause (2) today, I received an "award" - one of the best things that one could possibly receive in this profession of mine. Oy! And, (3) the "trophy" is in "food form", too. Nevermind that it was given by the most biased of all "award-giving bodies", it's the thought that counts. Hehe.... So, yeah, it's a "hat-trick" of reasons for calling it an awesome day! Yaay! :)

Hmmm... yummy!
I would like to thank, blah, blah, blah.... :)

But more than the "award" I am soooo glad to have had a great time with my fantastic family (mostly in the kitchen cooking, as most of the time - and what fun everytime!), a nice bonding and chillout time with some of my very good friends at work, and a totally fun time eating and videoke-ing with my former thesis advisees (huh? "former" already???) who have been such wonderful blessings to me, like all of my former thesis advisees in the more distant past.

Don't sing while your mouth is full! :)

Life is indeed good! And I thank God for it every single day!

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Speaking of food...

...while I know I am unworthy, here's a little food for thought:

I really hope that my present University would give bigger emphasis on research and research-related activities, such as innovation, in its major policies. While it is absolutely beautiful to witness the transformation of students in the classroom from "kids having fun" to almost-professionals-ready-for-the-"real-world", it is through research that students and faculty members (and industry partners) can, as a team, put meaning to that beautiful transformation through the advancement of science, and putting such advancement to good use. It is through these team-ups that
Research is where the Academe, the Industry and
the Government can converge for sustained
productivity in the country.Universities become rich sources of "sustenance" for a country's overall "health", and not just a mere source of "diplomaed workers" ready for shipping to heaven only knows where. Of course, my University has been investing in various ways on research. In fact, my research students and I benefit from those investments, and we are absolutely thankful. And yet, to me, because the "playing field" these days has been moved to a different venue, much is to be desired from what has been invested so far and from the emphasis given on research in major policies. And being the oldest and one of the very best in the country that produced, and still producing, among the brightest professionals in various fields - local and international - my University should take the lead in this direction, methinks, to remain competitive and a pillar of topnotch education in the country in the years to come. Otherwise, we would only be celebrating numbers associated to longevity rather than real achievements that make the numbers truly remarkable, meaningful and, therefore, worth celebrating for.

On a more personal note, "team-ups" in the lab and other research venues provide the most stunning of inspiration - potent and irresistible - for faculty members. The awesome challenge that a research question poses brings indefatigable and exhilarating energy to
Research is "fun", especially when it results to
exciting innovations... and deep friendship. the mind and to the spirit... and when the team understands that the question has to be answered, the transformation in the classroom becomes a truly inspired transformation - more disciplined, more pointed to a more defined direction. I think some call it "motivation", too. And, when students are motivated - by the right reasons - learning will not only involve discipline, it becomes an inspired and passionate quest for the answer to a "question". They gain the feel of "ownership" for the "scientific expedition", and it motivates them further to commit to the task. And, as little clues emerge on the surface, from persistent digging for the answer, students gain confidence... they learn more and become more aware of their many strengths, and their capacity to use these strengths to unearth Mother Nature's precious "secret" to catch that illusive answer. Eureka! And because they knew that such remarkable feat takes humongous hardwork, aside from brilliance, they get transformed to better professionals - committed to the pursuit of answers to hard questions... and visionary innovators even.

And after the answer was found, the bond that holds the team becomes a bond that extends beyond a professional relationship - it becomes friendship... and the team-ups multiply and grow into a "mafia" of excellent professionals that could breathe life and excitement in all that it touches. This will sustain the University in ways beyond lip service, and help the country move faster on that wonderful road of sustained progress.

Ah, such idealism! If you mingled with bright young people in most of your waking hours, you'd catch the virus, too... and, chances are, you'd never recover from it, and you would just be too happy that you wouldn't either! =D

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Saturday photo

Bitten...

For a few days now, one of the biggest news stories on the face of the earth and, perhaps, in the whole Universe, is the resignation of Steve Jobs as Apple's CEO. The ailing 56-year old Jobs is no longer the Captain of the "Mothership". He has relinquished the helm to the Chief Operating Officer, Tim Cook. While Jobs has been elected as Chairman of the Board, he will no longer be walking the hallowed grounds of the Apple Campus at One Infinite Loop like a thunderous force that sweeps everyone in its way off his or her feet to the stratosphere of innovation - if he/she was worthy (translation: an authentic geek who can decipher the "Jobs code of visionary creativity") - or to the pits of destruction - if he/she was only a "common intellectual"! Acknowledged by many as brutal but inspirational (a combination of adjectives that could only be used when "Steve Jobs" is in the same sentence... and the owner of the name doesn't mind either), Jobs revolutionized personal computing to a whole new world of digital technology. And then he lured us all to this new world with his incredible charisma, fiery passion for innovation and admirably brilliant mind. Weaker mortals as most of us are, we, of course, succumbed to the skillfull seduction! And we got transformed... and irreversibly, too! Such is the power and influence of Jobs in this century. And why not, when he is such a visionary leader... at least, in this techie world of ours.

Of course, this news troubled me... for the past four years of re-inventing a lab course in my University to a platform for Innovation (oh, please! Of course, not in the Apple scale! I'm not even worthy to tie Jobs's shoe laces!), I have used the "Jobs model" as the definition of innovation. While I'm sure Apple will continue to be the seat of innovation in the technology world, I don't feel prepared to use it as a model for innovation without the Steve Jobs by-line in its technology preachings. Then again, his legacy is too potent and permanent to not stay influential for as long as we enjoy hanging out in this "digital world"... and maybe even beyond it.

***
I took the photo during my most recent visit to the "Mothership" on July 2010... to check out the cool sleekness of the iPad, of course, and hear members of the Mothership's Corps of Engineers themselves explain its geekiness merits... like I needed any of that to decide to get the toy! =) iPad was not available in Manila yet that time, and I heard that it won't be until several more months. For an innovation follower, "several months" was too long, and it's but natural that I followed "the apple" that leads to the Mothership... and dressed carefully for the occasion, too! ;) The result? Techieness overdose - ahem, I totally, shamelessly flipped! =)

132nd birthday

Albert Einstein... his memory lives on.
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by Philipina A. Marcelo


I am currently engrossed in that bestselling classic, "Einstein, Life and Times" by Ronald W. Clark.

Inspired by Albert Einstein's approaching 132nd birthday and to celebrate a small success in a big stint with students, I went to hunt for an Einstein-related reading at the bookstore three weeks ago or so. By habit, and absent-mindedness (uh, ahem, don't know where I got that! Hehe...) my feet brought me to the food-related books section! :) Three-expensive-books-in-my arms later, I realized those were not what I came for to buy. So, I forced myself towards the Science Section, allowing a short stopover at Bestsellers Section, when all of a sudden a misplaced paperback caught my attention. Why? Because it was a book on Einstein! I looked at it, and I gasped... it was one of those books I wanted to buy back in my penniless College student days, which I cannot afford, of course! And I promised myself then to buy it the minute I started earning money. Of course, it took more than twenty years and a few stints at different universities before I could fulfill such promise! :)

So, after more than 20 years, a fateful circumstance reunited me with my "dream paperback"... and I hurriedly turned to "that page" that made me decide a long time ago that, perhaps, Ronald W. Clark should be trusted to write about Albert Einstein's Life and Times... yes, even if he was not a Physicist! :)

"The page" was page 37... and here's what Ronald W. Clark related that played in my head over and over again and kept me enthralled for the past 20 years or so:

"...Einstein decided on the work to which he would be willing to devote everything and sacrifice anything with steely determination which separated him from other men. On two occasions, he put down in simple words what the work was. The first came during an hour's meeting - apparently about 1911 - with the Jewish philosopher Martin Buber, who pressed him hard 'with a concealed question about his faith.' Finally, in Buber's words, Einstein 'burst forth,' revealingly, "What we (and by 'we' he meant we physicists) strive for," he cried, "is just to draw His lines after Him." To draw after - as one retraces a geometrical figure.' And a decade later, walking with a young woman physicist to his Berlin University office, Einstein spelled out the same task in more detail. He had no interest in learning a new language, nor in food nor in clothes. 'I'm not much with people,' he continued, 'and I'm not a family man. I want my peace. I want to know how God created this world. I am not interested in this or that phenomenon, in the spectrum of this or that element. I want to know His thoughts, the rest are details.'"

Aaah... sweet!! :)

More than two decades after College, and now completely immersed in the exciting waters of the science and technology world... considering it was written more than a decade already when I first discovered it in College, how Einstein's passionate words still leave me in complete fascination - the way it did back in the days when I had no clue what his "Special Theory of Relativity" actually meant, and how much it encompassed most physical laws known then and now - is completely amazing!

That moment, I was ready to spend a fortune to own a copy of that book... as it turned out, a snack at that overrated coffee shop (if you could even call it that) called Starbucks - the hangout place for so many College students these days - is so much more expensive! Wow, my generation has degenerated so much! :( We have too many of those Wall Street, (even worse) Wall street-ish, and (worst) Wall Street big shot wannabe people these days, that's why! Perhaps, we need an Einstein to get us back on track? Hmmm... hey, a girl can dream! :)

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Photo credits: (1) My photo, (2) grabbed from http://www.mbbnet.umn.edu/doric/einstein.html - thanks.

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