Last June 10, seventy two new freshies attended the CAL Freshmen Welcome Assembly. Despite the obvious decrease in the number of CAL freshmen, the college was no less enthusiastic in welcoming them into UP. The college’s dean, Professor Virgilio Almario, opened the welcome assembly by giving them a history of the college. Other speakers talked about several other issues and introduced the different programs, offices, and facilities offered by the university. The talks contained information that may be essential to a student’s stay in UP. The freshies were also given a survival kit and freebies.

The Welcome Assembly did not fail to entertain, as several CAL organizations were given chance to perform on stage. UP SPECA performed first, and presented a very funny Balagtasan about Breasts as well as a dance number. UP Asterisk and Alay-Sining both performed songs composed by their own members. UP Quill recited a dramatic poem. The UP Repertory made the audience laugh non-stop as they presented a short play (entitled “Isko, Iska”) about a freshie named Iska.

UP AME also joined in entertaining the freshmen as members Ron, Szusza, Fra, Krinkle, and Lira played and sang the Japanese version of Sixpence None the Richer’s “Kiss Me.” The audience showed great enthusiasm for the performances, as evidenced by their claps and laughter.

Overall, the Freshman Assembly was a success. It made the freshies feel really comfortable and welcome to the college. They had fun on their first day at the university, and they can expect that they will enjoy the rest of their college life even more.