Student Induction Programme, I Degree Students- 2024-25, St Agnes College, Mangaluru.
St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, began its induction program for first-year students from July 8 to July 12, 2024. The program aimed to orient students to college life, promote personal growth, and introduce key academic and social concepts.
Day One – 08/07/2024
On July 8, 2024, the college hosted an orientation program at the Mother Mary Aloysia Centenary Auditorium to welcome the newly admitted first-year students for the academic year 2024-25. The event commenced with an invocation for blessings led by Miss Alice & group, followed by a welcoming dance performed by Ms Sahana and group, symbolizing hospitality.
The inauguration of the academic year was marked by the lighting of the lamp by dignitaries, including Joint Secretary Sr Dr Maria Roopa A.C., Principal Sr Dr M. Venissa A.C., Administrator Sr Carmel Rita A.C., Vice Principal Sr Roopa Rodrigues A.C., Alumna Ms Vidya Shenoy, and Student Representatives. Ms Shenoy, an alumna of the college, shared motivational thoughts and experiences with students and parents, emphasizing the importance of initiative, continuous learning, and health management, including the 20-20-20 rule.
Ms. Privy D’Souza, a final year BA student and professional anchor, encouraged first-year students to start their journey of improvement and growth. Sr Dr Maria Roopa A.C. extended best wishes, urging students to embrace challenges positively. Principal Sr Dr M. Venissa A.C. emphasized the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and personal development, likening students’ growth to a sculptor shaping stone into art.
The event also featured Mrs Shubarekha, Dean Administration, who detailed college regulations and recognized deserving students, including 92 Merit Scholarship recipients and 4 rank holders.
With a century-long legacy, St Agnes College aims to shape responsible and dedicated individuals through its disciplined approach to education and personal growth.
Day Two – 09/07/2024
Mrs Shubharekha, Dean Administration, oversaw the coordination of Extracurricular Activities (ECA) programmes offered to students. These activities were detailed by the teachers in charge, highlighting their significance in enhancing students’ holistic development beyond academics. Additionally, department orientations were conducted to acquaint students with the specific academic disciplines, faculty members, and opportunities available within each department. These orientations aimed to guide students in making informed choices and fostering a deeper understanding of their chosen fields of study from the outset of their academic journey at St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru.
Dr V. Premanand, HOD, Associate Professor & Research Guide, PG Psychology, conducted a session on Mindfulness, stressing its relevance for mental well-being and personal growth. He focused on learning from past experiences and employing mindfulness techniques, including calming breathing exercises.
Ms. Akshatha, Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Applications (MCA), led an interactive session on developing Soft Skills essential for professional success. Topics covered included communication, problem-solving, and creativity, emphasizing the significance of a positive attitude and effective body language.
Ms Ashwini. K.A, Assistant Professor in the Department of PG Psychology, addressed Peer Pressure in her session, using a story and multimedia presentations to illustrate its impacts. She encouraged students to resist negative influences, build self-confidence, and manage peer pressures effectively. Strategies for handling peer pressure were discussed, with students sharing their own experiences and insights.
Day Three – 10/07/2024
Several alumni of St. Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, shared their enriching experiences and advice during an induction program for new students. Ms. Alima Baji, a 2023 graduate of BA, offered insights on discipline, motivation, and consistency, guiding incoming students in navigating college life effectively.
Further alumni, including Ms. Rashmi Acharya, Ms. Daniya Sheikh, Ms. Ayesha Heeba, and Ms. Natasha, reflected on their alma mater experiences and advised students to actively engage in college events and seize opportunities for personal growth.
Ms. Ifra, Ms. Nikitha, Ms. Niharika, and Ms. Fathima Naseer emphasized the importance of networking and overcoming stage fear. They shared personal stories of benefiting from college opportunities and transforming their personalities through active participation and leadership roles.
Ms Fathima Naseer, recalling her journey from a quiet student to Vice President of Business Administration, highlighted the supportive college environment, infrastructure, and developmental opportunities that shaped her growth. She encouraged students to embrace opportunities that foster personal and professional development.
Overall, these alumni sessions at St Agnes College underscored the significance of seizing opportunities, networking, and active participation in shaping a successful and fulfilling college experience.
Day Four – 11/07/2024
During an induction session at St Agnes College, Mangalore, Ms. Shubharekha, the Dean Administrator & Assistant Professor from the Department of Statistics, served as the resource person for Autonomy Regulations. She began by providing an overview of the college’s history and structure through a power point presentation. Ms. Shubharekha detailed the college’s rules and regulations, including uniform codes, statutory committees, and key features. She briefed students on the curriculum, new courses, academic framework, and management practices. Emphasizing assessment methods, she explained how exams are structured and managed, urging students to maintain discipline in the library and labs. She highlighted the college’s stance on ragging, encouraging a respectful environment. She concluded by motivating students to excel academically and plan their futures diligently, offering inspirational quotes and best wishes.
Dr Nancy H. Vaz, an Associate Professor at the Department of Secretarial Practice and the Controller of Examinations, addressed the student body regarding the evaluation system. She emphasized the critical aspects influenced by the National Education Policy (NEP), including attendance, assignments, and internal and external exams. The session also covered important details such as exam rules, procedures, and the software used in the examination and valuation. Emphasizing attendance, it was noted that students must maintain a minimum of 75% attendance to qualify for exams. Furthermore, the discussion encompassed exam components, consequences of malpractice, and clarified rules and policies governing examinations at St. Agnes College.
Overall, these sessions provided crucial insights into college regulations, assessment practices, and academic expectations, aiming to prepare students comprehensively for their educational journey at St Agnes College.
Day Five – 12/07/2024
The induction program at St. Agnes College covered a wide array of topics to prepare students for college life and personal growth. Ms Kavyashree, Assistant Professor of PG Psychology, highlighted gender equality issues, focusing on challenges faced by marginalized communities. She emphasized the importance of inclusive language and respect, distinguishing between equity and equality, and addressing barriers like stereotypes and toxic masculinity.
Mrs Vinatha K, HOD and Associate Professor from the Department of Psychology spoke on Mentoring, encouraging students to reflect on personal relationships and emphasizing its transformative impact on mental health and overall development. She underscored the objectives of mentoring its role in mitigating psychological issues and shared the metaphor of ‘Kintsugi’ to illustrate resilience and growth through adversity.
Dr Hithakshi B, Assistant Professor of Psychology, reinforced the benefits of mentoring in shaping students’ present and future, fostering interaction to underscore its significance.
Overall, the program provided essential skills through sessions on mindfulness, alumni insights, and soft skills development, aiming to empower students for success in college and beyond while promoting gender inclusivity in communication.
The sessions were well organized and well appreciated by all the participants.
