Go for Growth

by: Amidala Mallari, Thames Undergraduate Student

On August 24, 2020, Thames International once again demonstrated its concern for student wellness amid online learning in the pandemic. In partnership with the University of San Carlos and a number of resource speakers, USC’s law and college students were enlightened on the basics of online learning, learning essential tips and techniques for adapting to education in the new normal.

Speaker Lenise Logan, founder and president of Kalpa Art Advisory in New York, reminded the participants of the importance of balance in their personal lives, dreams, and even law studies. She acknowledged the tremendous pressure to feel and perform well despite the uncertainty and complexity the world faces today, and encouraged participants to remain focused on their goals. 

Speaker Carlo Rivera, Thames International’s Academic Coordinator, revealed that online education has real benefits, such as having control over one’s progress and learning. According to him, with the right mindset and a little familiarity with some basic tools, one will not just survive in the new learning environment, but also thrive.

Emmanuel Santos, Thames International’s School Counselor and Head of Student Affairs, shared concrete strategies and techniques for adapting to change and getting the most out of one’s online learning experience. This emphasis on self-care highlighted the institution’s concern for the very real mental health effects of the pandemic and its associated restrictions.

In the end, participants learned that a healthy learning environment is possible even online if one learns and develops a disciplined routine. One participant commented on the importance of developing efficient study habits. Another participant shared his reflection that if one maintains a growth mindset, even a crisis cannot stop one from learning.

In the middle of a pandemic, students and professors are fortunate to have the opportunity to continue learning. Despite the difficulty, with the right habits and practices and a solid support system from the institution, family, and friends, there is definitely room for learners to thrive and excel. It is up to us to discover the silver lining in every unlikely situation, and to continuously have a mindset that yearns to grow and prosper. 

Thames is committed to helping in nation-building through providing teacher training for schools and other organizations that need further help in adjusting to our new normal. For any inquiries on this matter, feel free to contact the school via inquire@thames.edu.ph.