By Stewart C. Ocampo

After years of attending virtual classes, 15 international students from China started their face-to-face classes in the Mariano Marcos State University on April 11.

An orientation activity was conducted at the FEM Conference Room today, April 20, to properly guide the students on the university policies and rules, as well as to officially welcome them here in the university.

The international students were oriented with the MMSU administration, learning management system, grading system, guidance services and student services. The Filipino and Ilocano cultures were also introduced to them. These topics were presented by Dr. Lilibeth Abrogena, MAEd program chair; Dr. Mark Joseph Pastor, OIC-planning and development coordinator; Prof. Wilben Pagtaconan, ITC director; Prof. Henedine Aguinaldo, university registrar; Dr. Jan Rich Guira, director for student affairs and services; and Dr. Geraldeen Pascual, student welfare chief.

Dr. Nathaniel Alibuyog, MMSU vice president for research and extension, assured the students the “dedicated faculty members and students will take care and guide you every step of the way.”

“I’m happy to finally meet you and I am excited to experience face-to-face classes in MMSU. Thank you for your hospitality,” expressed one of the international students.

The 15 international students will continue their graduate studies here in MMSU on the following degree programs: Doctor of Education major in Educational Management (8), Master of Arts in Nursing (6), and Master of Education major in Mathematics (1).

The students separately arrived in the province from April 8 to 17 and are now being accommodated at the MMSU-College of Teacher Education Magnolia Residence Hall in Laoag City and MMSU Dormitory 1 here in Batac City. (HLY/JVBT,StratCom)