Language major stud secures podium in CAASUC III Essay comp

BY TOFFEE BONCALES and JAZLYN NICOLE CALILUNG

Penning the first podium finish for Don Honorio Ventura State University, second-year BSEd English major student Febe O. Ocampo clutched 2nd place in the Culture and the Arts Association of State Universities and Colleges III (CAASUC III) essay writing category at Tarlac State University (TSU) last November 21.

During the first day of the three-day art and culture competition, the university only clinched one medal in the name of Ocampo, who is also a resident staffer of the Industrialist, with his winning essay piece titled “Virtual Bridges”.

According to the essayist, his winning piece revolves around the subject matter of shiftin the use of technology in a more positive way to enrich youth.

Ocampo was not expecting to obtain the victory since he thought that his piece did not meet the standards that he set for himself.

Even after the announcement, he still revisited the structure of the information woven into the paragraphs, the creativity in conveying the message, and the title itself.

“I was not expecting to grab a victory, as I knew while I was writing at that time that my essay did not meet the standards I have set for myself. Even after winning, I knew I could have done better if I had more time to prepare,” the language major student expressed in an interview with Edukare.

For the content of his piece, he thought of novel ideas that were less explored by many, which gave his work an edge in providing a unique perspective or fresh view of an already established writing prompt.

He added, “Professional critique both from my mentor and other experts in the field was also helpful in further developing my skills and addressing where I lacked most.”

CAASUC III is an annual week-long festival where SUCs across Central Luzon showcase different talents in various fields of competition.