Written by Michelle Ranges
The 3rd STELA Research Colloquium brought together undergraduate researchers from Psychology, Communication, Political Science, and English Studies under the theme “Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration Through Undergraduate Research.” Presentations highlighted pressing social and cultural issues, many of which intersect with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event was participated by 81 student researchers. From mental health and identity formation (“Self-Congruence and Self-Efficacy of College Shifters,” “The Silent Struggle: The Effects of Smart Shaming on College Students’ Social Identity”), to education and quality learning (“Technology-Driven Teaching: Effects on the Academic Engagement of Senior High School Students,” “Reading and Listening Proficiency of BSED Students”), the research underscored youth voices on resilience, diversity, and inclusive growth.
Several presentations powerfully addressed SDG 5: Gender Equality, such as “Kababai Mong Tao! Filipino Women’s Journey to Self-Expression and Societal Perception through Body Art,” “Masculinity Concepts and Body Image of Male Criminal Justice Students,” and “Looking Through the Realities of Elected Female Officials in Selected Barangays in Baguio City.” These works challenged stereotypes, highlighted women’s empowerment, and emphasized inclusive participation in community life.
Other studies explored digital culture and its impact (“Exploring the Influence of TikTok Content on Romantic Relationship Formation,” “Phubbing’s Impact on Family Dynamics Among Teen Gen Alpha”), and sociopolitical awareness (“Echoes of Dap-ay: Its Socio-Political Relevance on the Maeng Tribe of Mayabo in Tubo, Abra”), aligning with SDG goals on reduced inequalities, peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Special recognitions were given during the event, including the Top Three Best Paper Award and the Top Three Best Presenter Award. A Major Award was also conferred to the team with the highest combined score in both paper and oral presentation. The highlight of the colloquium was the recognition of the Top 8 overall winning entries, who will advance to represent the University of Baguio in the Regional Research Colloquium on October 15, 2025, via a hybrid setup. The program likewise featured a keynote address from Dr. Bernadita C. Ayunon, who inspired participants to continue bridging disciplines through research as a tool for sustainable development.
The 3rd STELA Research Colloquium was not only a celebration of research excellence but also a launching pad for UB’s student-researchers to reach greater heights. After rigorous presentations and deliberations, outstanding entries were chosen. These scholarly works will not only be remembered within the halls of STELA—they are set to represent the University of Baguio in the Regional Research Colloquium on October 15, 2025, via a hybrid setup.
Poster Presentations
The poster session provided a visual and interactive platform for participants to share their findings. Featured studies included:
- Exploring Parental Comparison on Adolescence Sense of Identity
- Relationship Between Superman Complex and Psychological Well-Being Among University of Baguio Psychology Students
- Kaselselpon Mo Yan! Phubbing’s Impact on Family Dynamics Among Teen Gen Alpha
- Solomon’s Paradox: The Incongruity Between Advice Giving and Self-Application Among BS Psychology Students
- The Silent Struggle: The Effects of Smart Shaming on College Students’ Social Identity and Coping Strategies
- Caught in the Crossfire: A Narrative Exploration of Parental Fidelity Through the Eyes of Children
- Self-Deprecation: Exploration of Self-Sabotaging Through the Lens of Toxic Positivity Among Youth Leaders
- Challenges and Coping Mechanism of the Student Marshals at the University of Baguio
Podium Presentations:
- Assessing the Existence of Quiet Quitting Among Students in the University of Baguio’s STELA Board Programs – Ghay M. Ladiong, Jazzel A. Malinias, Winzell T. Pinkihan
- Kababae Mong Tao! Filipino Women’s Journey to Self-Expression and Societal Perception through Body Art – Leila Alyana S. San Diego, Regine B. Abdula, Juselle B. Mulang, Kathlyn Kyle E. Valera
- The Body Image Perception of Kankana-ey Emerging Adults at the University of Baguio – Justine M. Garbin, Shaina Marie A. Ayson, Ingrid K. Willy
- Crossing Language: Exploring the Linguistic, Literary, and Cultural Features of English, Tagalog, and Ilocano Riddles – Amor B. Cayasen, Patricia M. Nebrija, Daphne Angell B. Pale, Melissa P. Topacio
- Looking Through the Realities of Elected Female Officials in Selected Barangays in Baguio City – Harold Deane Piog
- Reading and Listening Proficiency of the BSED Students at the University of Baguio – Sarah Ruth Bosetan Judan, Christine Barril Tabano, Chrizza Mae Barral Valdez
- Exploring the Experiences of University of Baguio Bachelor of Arts in Communication Graduates in Securing Employment After Graduation – Janieca Edejer and group
- S.P.E.A.K.: Exploring Self-Regulated Learning Strategies for Accelerating Foreign Language Learning among College Students- Kristine Gabrielle Banggawan
This year’s colloquium not only celebrated academic excellence but also highlighted the role of undergraduate research in advancing the SDGs, particularly in promoting equality, education, and sustainable communities. The success of the event affirms that young researchers are vital contributors to building a more inclusive and resilient future.
