Last August 6, the National Institute of Physics, UP Physics Association, and Agham Youth conducted this year's NIP Freshman Orientation Program at the NIP Auditorium. Dr. Roland V. Sarmago, the director of the institute himself, warmly addressed 120 physics freshmen during the program's welcoming remarks. Several speakers then oriented the students about the academic requirements and research functions of NIP as well as giving them a glimpse of possible future tracks in physics. After the program, incoming students were toured around the NIP complex followed by a cocktail where freshies, upperclassmen and UPPA members had the chance to socialize with each other. A special tour of NIP VISSER (Versatile Instrument System for Science Education and Research) was also given to the students where they were introduced to VISSER's state-of-the-art equipment involving laser cutters, 3D printers, and many others.
A week ago — last August 2 — the physics freshmen also took part in a tour around the campus while accompanied by UPPA members during this year's UPPAsyal. Around 40 students had a chance to get acquainted with the different places in their future second home - none other than UP Diliman. Team-building activities were also conducted during the campus-wide tour.
Clauzette Lofamia takes a selfie with the freshies during UPPAsyal.
UPPA has been actively supporting the welfare and student life of the country's future physicists. Through this year's Freshman Block Handling Ad-hoc Committee spearheaded by Dylan Salcedo, the NIP FOP and UPPAsyal allowed us to continue our promise of bringing physics closer to the heart of the people. Dylan posted on Facebook: "I personally felt how great it was to be part of this institute that I almost consider family. All those weeks of hardwork really paid off by seeing all of your happy faces today. What a way to start the academic year."
Our heartfelt thanks goes to all of the people who helped make this event possible. To the freshies, thank you for attending the NIP FOP and UPPAsyal. We hope you had a great time! See you around!