Laguna University’s (LU) Psychology Department celebrated a significant milestone on November 24, holding its inaugural pinning ceremony for 77 pioneering students from the Bachelor of Science in Psychology (BSPsy) and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BAPsy) programs.
The event, held at the Cultural Center of Laguna in Sta. Cruz, followed the theme “Illuminating Paths: From Learning to Serving, A Commencement Celebration for Future Psychology Practitioners.” The ceremony marked the students’ formal transition from classroom learning and theory to the practical, real-world application of psychological knowledge.
University President Dr. Charlemagne G. Laviña challenged the future professionals to “top the psychology board exams,” expressing strong confidence that LU is poised to produce highly competitive psychology graduates.
Keynote speaker Ms. Mary Joy E. Balois underscored the critical role of mental health practitioners today. “We are needed now, not just as future psychologists, not just future Registered Psychometrician (RPms), but as listeners,” she remarked, emphasizing the immense, life-affirming impact of simply listening to another person’s pain.
Ms. Balois also urged the fourth-year students to acknowledge and celebrate their efforts before moving on to face professional challenges. “As you prepare to embark on this transformative journey, it is important to have a guiding reminder… to hold on to when the path gets bad,” she advised.
During the formal rites, 32 BAPsy and 45 BSPsy students were officially pinned. Wearing their name pins, the students were led by Mr. David P. Galema, BAPSy Class Representative, in the Pledge of Commitment, symbolizing their dedication to providing ethical psychological practices.
Ms. Rochelle San Juan, BSPsy Class Representative, delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude, thanking the pivotal figures in their journey: “To all of our parents, guardians, and every individual who stood beside us… we thank you for your deep support, sacrifices, and encouragement that allowed each great student to reach this milestone.”
With this symbolic transition, the 77 students are now officially prepared to begin their on-the-job training next semester, ready to gain essential experience, discover practical insights, and find their specialized paths within the field of psychology.
By: Lourence Cuerbo
Photos from: Hanz Andrei Masikat & Anna Michaella Cruz
Photos by: Rjay Llano (LU-Frontier)
