First-year nursing students at the University of Northern Philippines attended an orientation program last April 3, 2025, to prepare for the Nursing Aptitude Test, a crucial requirement for screening and retention. The event, held at the Hostel Function Hall, also featured a lecture on overcoming test anxiety to help students manage their fears and perform better in the exam.
Organized by UNP Admission Services, the program was facilitated by office staff, including Mr. Neil Andrei Bajet and psychometricians Ms. Anne Kleire Rafanan, Ms. Rain Alviar, and Ms. Jan Christiana Balansi, under the leadership of Mrs. Precious Lyn Babida, Head of Admission Services.
The event opened with welcome messages from Prof. Mercedes B. Anicas, Assistant Dean of the College of Nursing, and Prof. Epiphanies Purisima, BSN Program Head. Dr. Rolando B. Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing the importance of mental preparedness for academic challenges.
The first lecture, led by Ms. Rain A. Alviar, provided a comprehensive orientation on the Nursing Aptitude Test, helping students understand its structure and expectations. Following an engaging icebreaker, Ms. Jan Christiana P. Balansi discussed strategies for overcoming test anxiety, offering practical tips on stress management and confidence-building.
An open forum allowed students to raise concerns and seek advice from the speakers. The program concluded with closing messages from Dr. Mariano Paterno F. Avila, Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), and Mrs. Precious Lyn Babida.
The event was smoothly facilitated by BS Psychology practicum students, Ms. Carmella Gaile Villanueva and Mr. Enrico Lucero, who served as the masters of ceremonies. Technical support was provided by Mr. Armen Bacuteng and Mr. Charlie Rojas.
Through this initiative, UNP reaffirmed its commitment to student success by equipping future nurses with the knowledge and confidence to excel in their academic journey.
Article by Precious Lyn Babida and Rain Alviar
