UST-AMV CoA Embraces Nostalgia in JPIA TALKS 2024 Webinar
By: Jasmine Rose Cerezo
University of Santo Tomas — Alfredo M. Velayo College of Accountancy (UST-AMV) students and alumni shared a nostalgic chronicle of their AMVian journey through the JPIA TALKS 2024 in partnership with KPMG R.G. Manabat & Co. entitled “Symphonic Principles: The Resonant Memoir,” a webinar hosted by the University of Santo Tomas — Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (UST-JPIA), on March 2, 2024, via Zoom Cloud Meetings.
Ms. Jane Nicole Cabalog and Ms. Louise Katrina Orden, fourth-year accountancy students, were the first two speakers to share their study tips and techniques for surviving the most challenging moments in UST-AMV. Both speakers have emphasized strategies such as establishing good study habits, effective planning, and ‘the power of rest.’
“As your seniors, we’re here to support you, and we hope and pray that whatever strategy that you choose works for you not only in the short term but in the long term as well…remember to maintain humility [and] appreciate those who have helped you along the way, most especially to the Lord,” Ms. Orden stated.
A push factor for determination was furthered by the third speaker, Ms. Eula Mae Labordo, CPA, CMA, who was an alumnus of UST-AMV. In her talk, she revealed how much she values the wisdom imparted by her college mentors and her friends from the AMVian community, which honed her into achieving success in her profession.
As the webinar delved deeper into the treasures within the accounting landscape, the talks of Ms. Ellen Rose R. Hernandez, CPA, and Ms. Diana Rose A. De Mesa, CPA, became an eye-opener as they set the discussion on the auditing landscape.
One of the main points the speakers imparted is the importance of honing the students’ communication skills alongside their technical skills. They underlined that the presence of difficulties is unavoidable; thus, one must stay committed and focus on excellence.
“It’s not about being perfect or being number 1 or being like a Latin graduate, but it’s about being your best with the tools you have; it’s about stretching your boundaries, pushing your limits, and giving your best effort every day,” Ms. De Mesa stated.
To conclude the webinar, Assoc. Prof. Mary Jane Castilla, PhD, UST-AMV faculty member, discussed overcoming obstacles and embracing one’s potential in UST-AMV. Anchoring on her students’ input, the most common obstacles were pressure, workload, and stress, which were paired with responsive actions like time management, a change in perspective, and making time for God and oneself.
“Obstacles, in reality, nandiyan lang ‘yan (are always present). It’s a matter of changing your attitude, changing your plan, [and] changing your proposed actions,” she ended.
“Symphonic Principles: The Resonant Memoir” was the third JPIA TALKS event hosted by UST-JPIA, led by Maestros George Abonal and Eimery Tabuan of the JPIA Hosting Guild.
