Written by: Kristine Gabrielle Banggawan ||
The Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAEL) program conducted two seminars on March 12, 2026 at FGB Hall as part of its EXCEL Series 3, a sequence of seminars under the program’s Student Development Program (SDP).
The morning session, entitled Ink to Spotlight, featured theater artist, director, and educator Katherine Nobleza-Estavillo who delivered a seminar on dramatic writing and performance. She discussed the fundamentals of transforming written scripts into stage productions and highlighted how theater allows language and literature to be experienced through dialogue, movement, and collaboration. Ms. Nobleza-Estavillo also shared insights from her experience in theater, including her work with various productions and her role as Artistic Director and trainer of Tanghalang SLU.
In the afternoon session featuring University of Cordilleras Nihongo Instructor Ms. Danielle Hannah R. Malitao, the seminar Lost in Translation: Navigating the Road to Fluency explored the challenges and strategies in foreign language learning. Ms. Malitao emphasized on the passion needed to continue learning a foreign language and normalizing making mistakes when learning. Drawing from her experience teaching language and communication subjects, she encouraged students to view foreign language learning as a game, one where learners may win or lose but continue enjoying the process, rather than a strict piano lesson that requires rigid adherence to convention.
The EXCEL series, which stands for Empowering Expression, Critical Thinking, Engagement, and Leadership in English, serves as the BAEL program’s banner initiative aimed at strengthening students’ academic and professional competencies. EXCEL series 3 is part of BAEL’s continued effort to provide meaningful learning experiences through engagements and opportunities to explore both creative and practical aspects of language learning.
The activity aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education by promoting inclusive and enriching learning opportunities. It also supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through collaboration with professionals and institutions in delivering educational initiatives that prepare students for an increasingly global and interconnected world.
