REFLECTION

Planning for one's career is crucial for students as it enables them to make informed
decisions about their future professions. Engaging in career planning helps individuals gain a
clear understanding of their interests, abilities, weaknesses, and the skills they need to
develop in order to achieve their career objectives.

This morning, Sir Rico Gomez invited STEM students to attend a virtual career planning
seminar called "Career Planning Webinar" in the science laboratory. The webinar is aimed at
encouraging young people to learn more about their potential careers. There were many
student participants from various schools in the region, as well as the DOS president,
regional director, provincial science and technology director, and others. The webinar covers
different sciences and provides helpful information for all students in attendance, including
myself, who are interested in exploring various career paths.

PHILAAST provides a diverse range of courses, including agricultural sciences, economics and
social sciences, medical and biological sciences, and many others. Among the programs,
medical and biological science programs are particularly outstanding. The Philippines'
medical and biological initiatives are widely recognized and applauded, making these
programs popular among students aspiring to become healthcare workers. Additionally,
there is a high demand for healthcare employees, which makes the field an attractive option
for students seeking stable and well-paying jobs. Moreover, the programs provide a clear
career path, with students who engage in these programs having a defined career goal and a
clear understanding of the steps needed to achieve it. The programs also offer a structured
curriculum that emphasizes the key skills and knowledge necessary for success in the
industry.

During the webinar, I realized that I want to become an architect someday, even though
none of the previously mentioned courses are related to my desired profession.
Nonetheless, I learned valuable information about other courses, techniques, and skills that I
can apply in the future. Mr. Fortunate de la Pena's statement at the end of the webinar
stayed with me: "What we have today is an investment from the past and we have to invest
for the future." It is important to continue investing in our future to prepare for the
challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The investments we make today, whether
financial, educational, or personal, will have an impact on our future. By investing wisely in
the present, we can build a strong foundation for our future and be well-prepared to face
whatever the future may hold.

John Vincent C. Abella