Far Eastern University (FEU) International Studies (IS) alumni, along with other industry professionals, shared their expertise regarding the diverse professional ventures under International Relations in an Industry Forum held at the University Conference Center last April 8. 

'International Relations and International Development Industry Forum 2025' is an annual event of FEU IS Department to help students learn more about their possible future careers. 

The department invited six alumni and three other professionals as panel members to discuss their current roles, skills, and experiences in the professional workplace. 

Isabelle Cebu, an IS graduate from Batch 2023 who now works as a Government Affairs Associate at the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, discussed the responsibilities of working in the foreign chambers along with the needed skills for the job in her talk. 

"Project and events management skills, I think everyone has their FPM [Fundamentals of Project Management] subject so that could be very, very helpful because we have a range of activities that we do on a daily basis... While you're planning one event, you have to plan for the next event for the next few months," she shared. 

Cebu also emphasized the importance of identifying one’s niche, grabbing opportunities, and advocating for yourself as a young professional.

The event also invited Megan Depunsoy, an IS fresh graduate and currently a Project Assistant - Cultural Resources Division in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Office of Cultural Diplomacy.

She advised students to take advantage of the available courses in the program to develop their skills and broaden their knowledge regarding work technicalities. 

Meanwhile, 2023 IS graduate Giana Serafines emphasized the importance of joining different organizations and leveraging connections in looking for future jobs.

"Ang pag-apply ng trabaho, hindi 'yan nagsisimula sa (In applying for jobs, it does not start) after you graduate. You have to build your skillset, you have to be prepared," she explained. 

Serafines is now working as a Defense Research Analyst in the Philippine Navy and served as a former officer in the FEU International Studies Society. 

In addition, she shared her experiences working as a woman in a male-dominated field. 

"Sa una, medyo nakaka-intimidate, siyempre puro lalaki ‘yung… mga kasama mo (At first, it is a bit intimidating because of course you are surrounded by men). But then again, I would like to remind everyone to take up space. Kaya niyo ‘yan, lalo na sa kababaihan (You can do it, especially women) when you are entering this kind of field, it is really important to set yourself na kaya mong lumaban (that you can fight)," Serafines emphasized. 

Batch 2019 graduates Justin Malarayap and Timothy Chavaria expressed how the IS field is diverse in itself, opening paths to different professional opportunities. 

Malarayap is a Technical Assistant in the Office of the President - Presidential Management Staff. He recounted his journey, from having an on-the-job training at the International Criminal Police Organization to working under the government. 

Additionally, Chavaria highlighted the importance of having work-life balance, still upholding the University’s core values but not at the expense of personal life. 

IS fresh graduate Chiara Tabarina, who now works under DFA’s Office of Cultural Diplomacy as an Administrative Officer - Research Division, also touched upon the value of finding happiness in your chosen workfield.  

The department also invited other field professionals working in different industries namely: Shaira Nacino; a Senior Trade Industry Trade Development Specialist under the Department of Trade and Industry, Michelle Alvarez; a former FEU faculty who now works in MicroSave Consulting as a Senior Manager in Government Advisory, and Elmerei Cuevas; a Social Innovation Specialist under the United Nations Development Programme. 

Students were given the opportunity to ask questions to the professionals regarding their advice and experiences in entering the workplace. 

The forum also discussed the transition and adjustments from being a student to a young professional 

- Julliane Nicole B. Labinghisa

(Photo by Gwyneth Mendoza/FEU Advocate)