Alumni, industry experts encourage IS majors

Far Eastern University (FEU), through its Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS), continues to take deliberate strides in preparing its students for life beyond the classroom through the International Relations and International Development Industry Forum at the University Conference Center. Current students taking the International Studies (IS) program gained valuable insights from professionals in the field and IS alumni who have successfully made the transition from university to the workforce.

“FEU has always taken into great consideration the post-academic lives of its students,” said Diego Jose Abad, dean of IAS, adding that this initiative reflects FEU’s renewed mission. “But with the newly revised mission, the university has made it a priority. Which is why every year, the institute holds an industry experts forum. The goal is to come together with the different members of the industry to collaborate in reviewing and designing your curriculum.” 

The event was divided into two panels: the first featured industry professionals working in fields relevant to IS, while the second spotlighted FEU-IS alumni who returned to share their career journeys and lessons learned along the way. 

Francis Esteban, assistant dean of IAS, formally opened the first panel by introducing the industry partners, who shared stories of purpose-driven work in governance, development, and international trade. 

Elmeri Cuevas, a Social Innovation Specialist from the United Nations Development Program, inspired the students with a call to engage in inclusive innovation.

“Inclusive innovation reaches and engages the marginalized and those excluded in society, including the poor, the disadvantaged, the vulnerable persons and communities,” said Cuevas. “Helping people who can’t help themselves—that’s the better use of our time.” 

Michelle Alvarez, a former senior economic development specialist from National Economic and Development Authority and now a senior manager at MicroSave Consulting, offered practical advice: “take the civil service exam, seek out scholarships, and do not underestimate the importance of work-life balance in long-term career planning.” 

Rounding out the panel was Shari Joy Nacino, a senior trade industry development specialist at the Department of Trade and Industry . She recalled how her time as a missionary and her internship under then-Vice President Leni Robredo shaped her desire for a job that creates meaningful impact.

“The thing about pain is that it’s valuable when it’s poignant enough to make you change something,” said Nacino. Her work at Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions now allows her to promote local producers while helping fellow Filipinos find their voice in global trade. 

After the industry talks, Agnes Beatrice Silva, IS department chair, introduced the second set of speakers—accomplished IS alumni who shared honest reflections on their post-university journeys. 

Isabelle Cebu, government affairs associate at the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, credited her college affiliations for sparking her interest in policy work. She encouraged students to stay curious, open to learning, and brave enough to advocate for themselves and their goals. 

Giana Serafines, now a defense research analyst at the Philippine Navy, broke stereotypes about personality types in her field.

“There’s a place for introverts in defense,” she said, noting that women also bring much-needed diverse perspectives to national security roles. 

Justin Malarayap, technical assistant at the Office of the President’s Presidential Management Staff, spoke candidly about the value of taking chances.

“Bravery and shooting your shot in applications really matters,” said Malarayap, especially when applying to high-level government positions.

Other alumni in attendance—Timothy Chavaria (weapons research analyst, Institutional Shareholder Services), Chaira Tabarina and Megan Depusoy (both from the Office of Cultural Diplomacy at the Department of Foreign Affairs)—also shared their reflections on the transition from student to professional. 

Through this initiative, FEU reaffirms its commitment to aligning academic training with the demands of an evolving professional landscape. By fostering meaningful engagement between students, industry leaders, and alumni, the university continues to uphold its mission of producing competent graduates, well-equipped to navigate and contribute to their chosen fields.