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On-the-job training (OJT) is one of the most exciting and unforgettable parts of a student’s college life. It gives students the chance to experience what it’s like to work in a real-world scenario. Through this training, students can improve their skills, gain confidence, and learn how to apply what they’ve studied in school. The required number of hours spent on training allows them to get used to the daily tasks and responsibilities of their chosen field. It’s also a great way to discover their strengths and interests while learning from professionals in the workplace. On the job training persuades the students to go outside their comfort zone, it makes them more adaptive and versatile.
The main goal of OJT is to help students focus on hands-on learning and producing actual work results. It teaches them how to work with others, solve problems, and meet deadlines—important skills they will need in their future careers. More than just training, OJT helps students grow as individuals by building discipline, responsibility, and a strong work ethic. Overall, it’s a valuable experience that helps prepare students for life after college and gives them a clearer view of their career path.
THE INTERN`S CULMINATING ACTIVITY
Mariano Marcos State University- College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology, Marine Biology
Northwestern University, College of Arts and Sciences, BS in Biology
Mr. Karl Lenin C. Benigno, Vice President for Administration, commended the efforts and contributions of the student-interns. He recognized their full potential, hard work, and the skills they demonstrated as they prepare for their future careers.
In addition, he expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Michael A. Calaramo for his commitment to mentoring the interns. Mr. Calaramo dedicated his time, knowledge, and expertise to guide the students throughout their training, helping to equip them with the confidence and practical experience needed for their professional growth.
The Students Activities During their Internship Program
The student-trainees have potted 704 seedlings of Nageia wallichiana, it is a species of conifer in the family Podocarpaceae.
The student-trainees prepared the garden soil and potted 49 seedlings of Cycas riuminiana prior to conservation
The student-trainees prepared and clean the Museum Specimens
The students took the initiative to clean and prepare the museum as part of their training activities. They worked together to sweep and mop the floors, dust off display cases, and carefully arrange the exhibits. They also made sure that all materials, signage, and decorations were in the right place to create a pleasant and organized atmosphere. Their teamwork and dedication made the entire museum look cleaner and more presentable, ready to welcome guests and visitors.
This task was more than just a cleaning activity it was a learning experience. The students developed a strong sense of responsibility, discipline, and cooperation while working toward a common goal. It also gave them a deeper appreciation for the importance of maintaining historical and cultural spaces. Through this hands-on experience, they were able to apply their skills, understand the value of their contribution, and take pride in helping preserve and prepare a meaningful place like the museum.
The student-trainees during the fieldwork at Sta. Maria Piddig, Ilocos Norte
One of the most important highlights of this internship program is the opportunity to conduct fieldwork activities. While books, lectures, and presentations provide essential knowledge, nothing compares to learning directly from real-life experiences. Fieldwork allows interns to step outside the classroom and apply what they have learned in a practical setting. It gives them the chance to explore natural environments, observe actual specimens, and understand how these organisms thrive in their natural habitats.
Engaging in fieldwork helps interns develop critical thinking, observation skills, and hands-on techniques that are difficult to gain through classroom learning alone. It also allows them to experience challenges in real-time, such as changing weather, difficult terrain, or unexpected findings. These situations prepare them to become more adaptable and resourceful. Most importantly, fieldwork connects students to the real world, helping them build a deeper appreciation for the environment and the importance of their chosen field of study.
The student-trainees initiated the identification of mangroves, shells and seagrasses
It is really important to engage students in mangrove fieldwork, including shell and seagrass identification, as these activities offer valuable hands-on learning experiences. Mangroves are unique coastal ecosystems that play a vital role in protecting shorelines, supporting biodiversity, and storing carbon. By exploring these environments, students gain a deeper understanding of ecological balance and the importance of preserving natural habitats. Identifying different species of shells and seagrasses helps students become familiar with marine biodiversity and strengthens their observation and classification skills.
Participating in these field activities also encourages students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-life situations. It improves their ability to work in teams, gather and analyze data, and develop environmental awareness. More importantly, it helps them appreciate the role of mangroves, seagrasses shells such as gastropods and bivalves , and marine life in the overall health of our oceans and coastal communities. These experiences not only build scientific knowledge but also inspire a sense of responsibility to care for and protect our natural resources.
The student-trainees practice the mounting of herbarium specimens
The student-trainees had the opportunity to practice the proper mounting of herbarium specimens using cheap board as a mounting paper, an essential skill in the field of plant taxonomy and preservation. Moreover, the specimens they were collected during their fieldwork are the one they have mounted. This activity allowed them to learn how to carefully handle, press, and arrange plant samples on herbarium sheets for long-term storage and study. It was a hands-on experience that not only improved their technical skills but also deepened their understanding of the importance of documenting plant biodiversity for scientific research and environmental conservation.
Mr. Michael A. Calaramo played a key role in guiding the student-trainees throughout the process. He demonstrated the standard techniques used in herbarium specimen mounting, emphasizing accuracy, cleanliness, and attention to detail. Under his mentorship, the students learned the value of maintaining consistency and following scientific protocols. His guidance helped them gain confidence in their work and instilled in them the discipline required for botanical documentation and research.
The Student-trainees during the discussion of the Introduction, Taxonomy and Plant Systematics by Mr. Michael A. Calaramo
Talking about taxonomy and plant systematics may seem technical at first, but they actually help us make sense of the incredible variety of plants around us. Taxonomy gives each plant a proper name and place, just like how people have names and family trees. This makes it easier for everyone from students to scientists to understand and talk about plants without confusion. Whether we're studying plants in school, growing crops, or caring for the environment, knowing exactly what plant we're dealing with is incredibly helpful.
Plant systematics takes it a step further by exploring how plants are related to each other and how they’ve evolved over time. It's like uncovering the stories behind plant families where they came from, how they're connected, and why they matter. This knowledge isn’t just interesting; it’s also important for protecting rare species and understanding how nature works. When we take the time to learn about taxonomy and systematics, we’re not just memorizing names we’re connecting with the natural world in a deeper and more meaningful way.
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