Yesterday was a special day because I spoke to a group of young Industrial Design (ID) students from Bohol Island State University. It was my first time.

It wasn’t really the formal forum that you’re thinking of (or else I’d die of nervousness!). It was just a small class discussion of some sort, like I was a visiting lecturer! I laughed a little when I started introducing myself because I suddenly felt old (read: age) talking in front of the youngsters. Plus they addressed me with a “Ma’am”! *rolls eyes* I really think that “Miss” or “ate” sounds better and more appropriate for my face/personality. Hahaha. (I’m only 1-2 years older than them, you know~ :p)

It was good that the talk was in an informal setting. That way, I did not feel very nervous. Though I wish I could’ve prepared a little presentation for them because I wanted a visual discussion. Nevertheless, the interaction between me and students was good. I wanted them to feel comfortable with me. I wanted them to ask a lot of questions. I tried hard to get them to speak and I think they did pretty well.

We exchanged thoughts on topics related to Industrial Design, like: conceptualization of projects, skills and tools of trade, material explorations, educational tours, OJT/internship opportunities, thesis projects, ID studies versus relationships (read: boyfriend/girlfriend. *coughs*), expected salary, their ID idols, and a lot more, plus little jokes here and there. I switched mode when I talked about being serious with their chosen field of studies. I admit to feeling like an old maid, or sounding like a mother, but there’s nothing more important than stressing the idea of being serious on something that could be your means of living in the future. I also made emphasis on several other points which I felt are important: self-confidence, value of researching/self-study, time management, speaking English, etc. Overall, I totally enjoyed my time! For a while, I felt like a teacher! J

I’m thankful to kuya Jum (Lester Ouano, my highschool senior) for this opportunity. (Greetings going out to Mr. Miki Hironori, too!) Even though I am not really an established designer (I don’t dare to call myself as one. There goes my confidence level going down again), I feel privileged to be given this chance to share my story to the young ones. I don’t have that much experience to share since I’m a newbie myself, but being able to speak in front of them is just fulfilling. You know, sharing my journey to them as if they’re all like my younger sisters/brothers. I just hope they learned a thing or two from me. =)

with Mr. Lester Ouano (in red shirt, doing a V-sign) and Mr. Hiro Hironori (in black shirt, seated rightmost)

From this little talk, I realized that there is a big picture I gotta complete. I have my plans and I feel the need to see things from afar and check where/what/which stage I’m currently in. This is no longer just a play. This is already what’s called LIFE. I’m starting out my journey and I feel I need to double my efforts. The world and the people out there are pretty picky, sensitive, judgemental and sharp. I gotta be cautious. I gotta be wise. I gotta be strong.

For now, I’m just happy to cross out another item in my 50-things List! :) Thanks be to God!

P.S.  Well, we’re hoping we could snatch the students’ idol, Mr. Kenneth Cobonpue, for an interview/forum in the future!

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