DROPPING THE LAST BOMB: USC wraps up Calley's term with Rayhak '23

SEPTEMBER 11-12, 2023 — In a spectacular showcase of talent, innovation, and excellence, Samar State University’s Student Organizational Fair, known as “Rayhak,” unfolded over two vibrant days.

This remarkable event, orchestrated by the University Student Council (USC), aimed to discover, connect, and inspire the students of university. The fair brought together 20 accredited student organizations, each striving to unleash their creativity, passion, and advocacy.

Pressing the button

The festivities started on the first day at 3 PM, with an uplifting opening message from the USC Vice President Jason Dela Peña. He extended a warm welcome to all participants and attendees, acknowledging their vital role in ensuring the event’s success.

The official opening was followed by USC President Christine Calley, leading the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside the presidents and representatives of the participating organizations.

As the event began, the university’s quadrangle buzzed with activities initiated by the various organizations. The first day culminated with an enchanting acoustic night featuring captivating performances by talented students from various university departments, including Camelle Abotog, Edmund Homena, Joshua Cabutin, Shirly Brillantes, Vincent Lorioso, Bernadette Mañas, and Hazel Marasigan.

Countdown continues

Day 2 of Rayhak 2023 was equally exuberant and colorful, as students, faculty, and staff eagerly explored the booths.

USC staff and judges, including Head of Economic Enterprise Development Office under Student Welfare and Development Services (SWDS) Glenn Donadillo, SWDS Activity Coordinator Jomar Nacario, instructor Flarie Zabala, diligently assessed the booths based on their design, creativity, impact, and neatness.

Around 6 PM, the closing and awarding ceremony commenced, featuring insights from representatives of two different organizations; Aylla Joice Torres from The Tradesman and Ben Gabatbat from the Student Nurses Association who both shared their organizations’ experiences, highlighting the challenges they overcame and the gratification of seeing students enjoy the event.

All 20 participating organizations received certificates as tokens of appreciation for their enthusiastic participation. The awarding ceremony, led by USC President Calley, included recognition for participation, special awards, and the winners for the best booth design.

College of Industrial Technology Supreme Student Council (CIT-SSC) received the People’s Choice Award for hosting the most visited booth. Subsequently, the special awards were announced, with United Architects of the Philippines Student Auxiliary – SSU (UAPSA-SSU) chapter securing 3rd place, Psychology Society claiming 2nd place, and the Social Studies Circle grabbing the first place. Each winner received a certificate and a cash prize, courtesy of the University Student Council’s initiative.

Bang

In an exclusive short interview with the current USC President following Rayhak 2023, Calley emphasized the event’s purpose, which extended beyond welcoming freshmen with their general orientation. According to her, it aimed to foster camaraderie among students from different year levels and colleges while providing a platform for them to enjoy themselves outside the realm of academics.

As Calley’s term approaches its conclusion, Rayhak 2023 marks the final activity of her administration before the upcoming USC elections.

“Since we started our administration with the SSU Rayhak, then we’ll be ending it with also SSU Rayhak,” she said, reflecting on the event’s significance in her tenure.