To prepare both the students and their parents for this very new experience, a Parent’s Orientation and a Student’s Orientation were held on separate dates. The Parent’s Orientation took place on October 3 from 7:30 to 10:00 a.m. at the MPC. Parents were informed of the different activities and requirements their children were expected to accomplish throughout their stay in China. Inspirational talks were also given by both Fr. Johnny Go, S.J. and Fr. Guy Guibelondo, S.J. to encourage the parents to entrust their children to the school and to the supervisors who were asked to join this journey.

The parents were also given a tour of the school and dormitory through a video prepared by Dr. Joseph Ng. They were also given a chance to raise their concerns through an open forum.

The Parent’s Orientation was highlighted by a talk given by Mr. and Mrs. Ancheta who, just like any parent, had initial reservations about sending their two sons to the XCE. They gave the parents the assurance that the XCE was something they never regretted because they saw how their children became more independent. They guaranteed everyone there that though it may be difficult to be separated from their sons for six whole weeks, the XCE is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that their sons will always remember and learn from, and that their children are living testimonies of this. The orientation ended with a reminder that the XCE can only be successful if the parents work hand-in-hand with the school.

Last October 13, the XCE participants were given an orientation of their own. The students were given the chance not only to hear about what they would be doing there, but they also met their groupmates whom they would be working with and staying with for the entire duration. The students were also introduced to their supervisors and new subject clusters. The orientation ended with the students meeting up with their supervisors and getting acquainted with their new classmates.

Everything is set. We wish all of the participants a safe and successful trip. “Let your Lights Shine” wherever you are!