I accepted the Science Corps fellowship with very little idea of what to expect. I was exhausted after defending my dissertation in December and needed to reinvigorate my passion for research and education. I began my journey as a Science Corps fellow with a very open mind, willing to accept whatever Jagna and the Central Visayan Institute Foundation (CVIF) had to offer. 

I arrived in Bohol from Cebu and the first few days there were a blur because of my jet lag (Thank you to ma’am Ella and her father for the transportation!). There was an Astro Physics workshop occurring at CVIF the week I arrived, so classes were cancelled. I was able to attend a few interesting talks. A lot of it went over my head, but it was great to learn more about a field I had very little background in. 

I was a lot less jet lagged by the first day of class on Monday, which may have been from the excitement of finally meeting the CVIF students. Working with the students so far has been incredible. The students are very polite, respectful, intelligent, and hard working. The first month of the fellowship has been focused on completing the research projects they started at the beginning of the semester in November. Because I have a background in morphometric analysis, I was excited to lead the morphometrics group. Overall, there are 4 research groups– morphometrics, biodiversity, environmental analysis, and astrophysics. 

The second week of school meant that the students had field work to collect data, so we jumped right into establishing field plans and experimental design. The first day of field work took place before sunrise on Monday. We collected data for nearly 5 hours before heading back to the Bernido Compound for sample processing. Students were tasked to identify the collected specimens and take photographs for future measuring. It was a long day, but spirits were high. We did a second day of fieldwork, which went by quickly as the students were more comfortable with the field work protocol. Thanks to Richedel and a coconut harvester, I was able to drink fresh coconut water and eat coconut meat after the second day of fieldwork – electrolytes successfully replenished!

Since completing fieldwork, we have focused on processing samples through species identification and measuring the collected molluscs using ImageJ. It has been really interesting to see the breadth of biodiversity on the coast of Jagna. In just a small area, there are mangroves, seagrass, and reef flats and within those areas the students have identified a wide variety of mollusc species. I am so excited to continue working with my students and to see the final outcome of their research projects. 

During my free time as a Science Corps fellow this first month, I have played pickleball with An, Ronald, Anya, and Paolo. It was more of a workout than I thought it would be – I sweat so much, but it was a lot of fun! I have also enjoyed walking around Jagna and going to the market. The mangoes are so juicy and delicious. I also was able to visit Iloilo City for about 5 days and was able to taste delicious food, walk miles around the city, and explore a few museums. I tried pancit molo, batchoy, fresh lumpia, and a few mango shakes. Unfortunately, I ended the trip with a bout of food poisoning, but I have no regrets! 

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The post A Long Way From Home: 1 month in Jagna, Adriane McDonald appeared first on Science Corps.

Honestly, this blog has been a bit difficult for me to write. I’m trying to wrap my mind around the fact that this is my last month as a Science Corps Fellow and my final blog. Wow. Someone really needs to build a time machine already. It seems like only yesterday that I left Texas and traveled thousands of miles away, only to fall in love with Jagna at first sight. 

My last month at CVIF was very bittersweet. During my final week of teaching, I had more opportunities to bond with some of my students in the research class. I loved their enthusiasm and curiosity whenever I answered their questions. I still remember my first day in class–I was so nervous, and I’m sure the students were too. Seeing how comfortable they had become gathering around my desk to ask questions meant so much to me. One student even tried teaching me how to play Mobile Legends, haha. 

I also had the pleasure of giving a workshop to the students where I spoke about maximizing their time in college to prepare for higher education. Some of the topics included information on the structure of college, tips for studying, and how to ask for a letter of recommendation from professors. I hope the students were able to take away some valuable insights from the workshop.

Not only do I pride myself on being an educator, but I’ve also been a researcher for over 12 years. Naturally, I’ve gravitated towards the CVIF JAZC Marine Sciences Laboratory. Bonding with the researchers (Hi Ron, Prince, Abby, Richedel, and Anya!) over the last few months holds a special place in my heart. I organized the first bi-annual JAZC Marine Science Laboratory Academic Writing Workshop where I discussed the major components of a research manuscript. We discussed the lab’s current project, organized the data, and presented an outline of the manuscript to Sir Chris Bernido. Overall, the workshop was a success, and I hope to see the lab continue to grow and achieve even more successes in the future.

I’ve also been getting into the Christmas spirit this month thanks to the many celebrations hosted by CVIF. First, I attended the CVIF SHS Christmas Party where the students were full of energy. Each grade and section had beautifully decorated Christmas tables along with gifts and food. It was especially touching to hear one of my students sing a Christmas song and to see all of the students exchange gifts. I even danced with the SHS teachers during our portion of the celebration which brought me so much joy. And of course, one of the best parts was the lechon and the variety of food at every section. I’ll just say that I finally tried the ribs of the lechon and they are definitely the best part!

I also attended the CVIF Family Christmas Celebration at Lenny’s Function Hall where the junior high and SHS teachers celebrated together. Aside from once again being excited about the lechon, I had such a great time dancing with the teachers and exchanging gifts. Fittingly, the person I picked to give a gift to was Prince Nayga, and he absolutely loved it! The following day, I went to the CVIF General Christmas Program at the Jagna Cultural Center where students sang Christmas carols and danced their hearts out. It was only then that it truly hit me–this would be my last CVIF program to witness as a Science Corps Fellow. 

Speaking of “lasts”, I hosted a farewell party at Can-uba Beach with the SHS teachers. I had so much fun singing with them and I received gifts that I will always cherish. Looking back, this makes me a little emotional because I’ll miss the SHS teachers dearly. I’ll miss going to the faculty room and saying hello to everyone. I’ll miss hearing Jay Cris sing beautifully to himself or out loud at his desk. I’ll miss stopping by Ma’am Ruby’s desk to chat with her for a bit and saying hello to Ma’am Queenie. I’m very grateful for my time at CVIF and while I experienced many “lasts” this month as a Science Corps Fellow, I know that the connections I’ve made here will always remain. 

Of course, I can’t end this blog without talking about traveling this month. I managed to squeeze in a quick trip to Palawan where I visited El Nido and it was utterly beautiful. I spent most of my time strolling along the beaches (El Nido beach and Lio Beach), hiking to Nagkalit-kalit Waterfalls (which was definitely a workout!), and admiring the beautiful rock formations that reminded me so much of Isles de Gigantes. Sadly, I didn’t get the chance to go island hopping as tropical depression Wilma was looming at the time. However, this just means that I will be back in El Nido someday–hopefully next year with one of my best friends. Can you believe that Palawan marks the 19^th island I’ve been to since the start of my fellowship? Again–I need that time machine to be built already!

So, I bet you’re wondering what’s next for me. Am I returning to the USA? Am I staying in the Philippines? Where am I going next? What are my plans? All I’ll say for now is that my academic journey has taken yet another exciting twist. Just know that I won’t be saying an official “goodbye” to Jagna–just “see you later!” After all, Jagna will always be my home away from home. Who knows? I may be back for the next fiesta ;). 

Acknowledgements: 

To Science Corps: Thank you, Ben, Sarah, and Eddy for selecting me for this fellowship and supporting me during this time. To say that I have had an amazing experience here would be an understatement.  

To Prince Nayga: Priiiiiince! Thank you for everything from answering my many questions, to guiding me on the DLP and classes, and for just being a good friend.

To Ella Reroma: Ella, Ella, eh, eh, eh! Thank you for your kindness, friendship, and the gentle reminders to finish these blogs, haha. 

To Sir Chris Bernido: Thank you so much for your warmth and hospitality. I’ll always cherish my stay in Jagna.  

To my CVIF STEM students: I will miss all of you dearly! Thank y’all for your kindness and enthusiasm during classes. Keep working towards your goals–I know you can do it! 

Thank you to everyone who has been reading my monthly blogs and following my journey as a Science Corps Fellow. I hope y’all have a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year, and may the Lord God continue to bless you!

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The post Lasts, Lessons, and Gratitude in Jagna: My Final Month appeared first on Science Corps.

This month’s episode of my Science Corps Fellowship was filled with creativity in the classroom, new travels, and—of course—more island-hopping.  

After my students completed the major sections of their RRLs in our research class, I had the pleasure of guiding them as they transformed their projects into their very first research posters. While providing feedback based on my own experiences in research, I loved seeing how each group infused creativity into their designs and showcased their understanding of their topics. As they presented to me, I proudly listened and found myself transported back to my first research conference, standing in front of my own poster and speaking to biology experts. I hope the students are just as proud of their hard work as I am.

This month at CVIF brought severe weather (typhoons) leading to missed class days, a week-long semester break, and the end of the first semester for the students. However, despite the interruptions, there were plenty of memorable adventures along the way— one of which was visiting 6 Islands in the span of 1 week! It all began when I accompanied some of the teachers and students on a trip to Iloilo, where my students were presenting at their first national physics research conference at the University of St. Augustine. Iloilo has been one of the places I’ve been most excited to visit these past few months, and it certainly lived up to my expectations. I enjoyed a peaceful stroll along the serene Esplanade, admired the beautiful Molo Mansion and Molo Church, and of course savored the delicious food.

Speaking of food, a friend told me that Iloilo is the first city in the Philippines to be declared a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Naturally, this meant that I had to eat my way through the city! I tried pancit molo near Molo Church, siopao from Roberto’s and the famous batchoy from the original Netong’s—all of which were absolutely delicious! I also visited a few coffee spots—namely Madge Café (across from Netong’s) and Neighbor coffee.

One of the biggest highlights of my time in Iloilo was discovering a crochet community! It all started when I visited a place named Kape Yarn. I was in yarn heaven! Within minutes, I was warmly quickly welcomed into a group of crocheters. We talked about past and present projects, laughed more times than I can count, and crocheted the entire time. A couple of the Ates, Mimi and Lili, even helped me start a new crochet project right there in the store and guided me through it. I truly felt at home, and they even gave me a couple of crochet keychains as parting gifts. I’ll definitely be back to visit them soon!

After Iloilo, I hopped on a ferry to visit the neighboring ⁠⁠Guimaras Island—home of the world’s sweetest mangoes. I was able to taste one, and boy are they right! I also tried other  mango delicacies such as a mango pizza and mango coffee, both of which were delicious!

From Guimaras, I island hopped to Tatlong Pulo Island, Natago Beach, and Ave Maria Islet. I even met a few new friends at Tatlong Pulo (Hi, Ariel and Liam!)

After visiting Guimaras and island-hopping, I felt my trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Isles de Gigantes. After three-hour bus ride to Estancia, I took a ferry to ⁠⁠Sicogon Island where I could see Isles de Gigantes in the distance. The next morning, after an hour-long boat ride, I finally arrived at Isles de Gigantes. I took selfies on Antonia Beach, walked along my third sandbar, and marveled at the incredible rock formations while in the middle of Tangke Lagoon. Calling Isles de Gigantes “magnificent” would be an understatement.

Another highlight this month was that I finally went snorkeling at Balicasag Island and swam alongside sea turtles. What an amazing sight! Sea turtles are definitely my favorite animal now!

Now onto my last month as a Science Corps Fellow! I’ll be sure to save the tears until then.

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The post Month #5 in Jagna: From Classroom Posters to Coastal Adventures appeared first on Science Corps.

I would be remiss if I didn’t start off this blog discussing Jagna’s highly anticipated St. Michaels festival. It was so exciting to witness Jagna prepare and transform for the fiesta! It reminded me a lot of preparing for rodeo season in my hometown of Houston, Texas. I didn’t realize how nostalgic I’d feel until I saw the large Ferris wheel, the games for both adults and children, and the concert at the Calamay Stage at Jagna Plaza. What a time! One thing’s for certain – Jagna knows how to throw a party! The day of the fiesta started out with an invitation to Prince’s home where I enjoyed plenty of delicious food, including lechon. In my previous blogs, I mentioned having lechon before, but this was my first time seeing the whole roasted pig – an experience I won’t forget! Later in the day, I joined the crowds for the parade, watched the festival dances, and, of course, ate more food. 

Another exciting event this month was the celebration of Teacher’s Appreciation Day. It was truly touching to hear and receive such heartfelt admiration from the students about how the teachers at CVIF have impacted their lives. The program was full of fun, laughter, games, and awards. To my surprise, I won the “Best Dressed” award – something I had no idea I was a contender for prior to the program! I honestly just couldn’t decide what to wear to the program and ended up choosing my favorite dress, haha. The celebration continued the next day at Canuba beach with the senior high school teachers of CVIF. To say that this beach day was fun would be an understatement – and yes, there was lechon and yes, I ate my fill of it!

Teaching at CVIF is still so exciting, and I am constantly impressed by the students’ questions and engagement. One of the highlights during this month’s biology class was their Performance Task, where they were assigned to model either DNA, RNA, a protein, or the cell membrane using recyclable materials. I was absolutely blown away by the level of creativity, artistry, and understanding they showed in their work. I am very proud of each of their models. These should seriously be placed in a museum!

During my 4^th month, I also had the chance to visit to Dumaguete. I had an amazing time strolling along the Rizal plaza, passing by Siliman University, and admiring the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral. The food was also very lami! I even made some new friends in Dumaguete that I met at a karaoke bar my last night there (Hi, Joanne and Sandro!). We ended up having a great time singing, laughing, and talking about life. It’s always a joy when I get to meet to new people!

I also went dolphin watching and visited the Manjuyod White Sandbar, north of Dumaguete. I’ll will never forget how close the dolphins came to the boat (as if to say hello, haha) and stepping onto the sandbar to see countless sand dollars and starfish. The entire experience felt mystical!  

I spent another day in Valencia where I visited Pasalubong Falls, a sulfur vent (which smelled like rotten eggs by the way), and the Tierra Alta lighthouse in all its glory. I was fascinated by each of these visits – especially the Tierra Alta lighthouse since its Greece-inspired design reminded me of my trip to Greece back in 2017 with my best friend, whom I miss very much.

Aside from traveling, I have also had so much fun continuing to build local connections, whether it’s being invited to dinner by the Bernidos, having a girls’ day (Hi Remelyn and Zosia!), or visiting a friend at a coffee shop (Hi, Arnold!). It’s a wonderful reminder for me to continue cherishing all of my friendships.

What an amazing Month #4 it’s been! On to Month #5 where even more adventures – and possibly more islands to visit – await!

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The post When Life Feels Like a Fiesta: Month Four in Jagna appeared first on Science Corps.

Month #3 in Jagna has been full of teaching, traveling, and meeting new people. The students kicked things off with the much-anticipated Buwan ng Wika celebration, where I watched CVIF students proudly showcase their culture and history. I don’t think I can fully express in words how touching it was to witness this event. It made me even more appreciative of the importance of preserving history and culture, and it reminded me of my grandmother and the few conversations we had about her upbringing. Of course, I couldn’t attend Buwan ng Wika without wearing a traditional Filipiniana top. One of the CVIF teachers, Abby Abucejo, graciously helped me find the perfect one. (Thank you, Abby!)”

Buwan Ng Wika celebration. Abby and I posing in our beautiful Filipiniana tops.

Along with witnessing the students’ performances during Buwan ng Wika, I’ve also continued to see their love of learning and their ability to tackle challenging subjects in the classroom. This month in the General Biology class, we focused on the cell membrane—its many roles, and the differences between carrier and channel proteins. During one discussion, I used the entire classroom layout, along with student volunteers, to demonstrate these concepts, which I hope made the lesson more fun and engaging. In the Practical Research class, the students were tasked with drafting their first Review of Related Literature (RRL) on a topic on either astronomy or marine biology. Now, I’m no expert in either field, but I was instantly impressed by their submissions! Their chosen topics were fascinating, and the way they wrote their RRLs reminded me of the process of writing and reviewing grant proposals in research.

Another exciting event at CVIF this month was the invitation to introduce myself to the visiting heads of DepEd schools from Davao. (Coincidentally, I wore the same color shirt as them, haha!) I spoke about the impact of learning about the DLP and creating LASs for my classes, especially since I had previously taught in settings where most learning took place online. I shared how I’ve implemented LASs in my Practical Research class, which focuses on the topic of artificial intelligence—a particularly relevant subject since AI is now a widely used tool in research.

Visiting heads of DepEd schools from Davao. Example LAS on AI. 

As for my travel adventures, would you believe me if I told you I visited four islands this month? Yes, you read that right! I went to Siquijor, Camiguin, Mantigue, and White Island. Each one was uniquely beautiful, so unfortunately, I can’t say which was my favorite.

Left to right: Siquijor (me at the Old Enchanted Balete Tree). Mantigue Island. Camiguin Island. Me on White Island at 6:00am!

However, I can tell you that I met new people on three of these islands. Let’s start with Siquijor, where I met my new friend from the Czech Republic, Natálie. I first met her at the Tagbilaran port, and we ended up spending an entire day together in Siquijor—exploring Kawasan Falls, hiking, and visiting different sites. We had such an amazing time! She now lives in Hong Kong, and I hope to visit her soon. I also met a group of cool new friends—Patrick, Fahed, and Oliver—while taking pictures at Pitogo Cliffs. They generously treated me to dinner at Runik, and I had such a great time talking with them, especially when we realized we were all the same age.

Left to right: Natálie and I at Kawasan Falls. Pitogo Cliffs. The guys and I at Runik restaurant. The food was lami!

Next, I met my new friends Rena (a.k.a. my twin) and Rëy in Camiguin. It all started when I asked them to take a photo of me at the Old Church Ruins and before we knew it, our bond led us to spending an entire day together. We explored so many places, including Tuasan and Katibawasan Falls. It was especially memorable because we got to celebrate Rena’s 30th birthday together!”

Left to right: Me at the Old Church Ruins; photographed by Rëy. Rena and I arriving at Tuasan Falls. Rëy, Rena, and I during our last night in Camiguin on Rena’s birthday.

Lastly, on Mantigue Island, I met a group of brothers while sharing a boat ride, and they welcomed me (with food, of course, haha) like I was their long-lost sister. One of the brothers, Bonen, was even kind enough to help me take photos of the beautiful island. Their bond definitely made me miss my siblings back home.

Left to right: The brothers and I on Mantigue Island. Black shirt = Bonen. Me at the Mantigue sign; photographed by Bonen. My peaceful photoshoot in the ocean; photographed by Bonen.

I am beyond grateful for these beautiful experiences and new friendships. I know that the next couple of months will bring even more adventures—especially with the fiesta just around the corner!

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The post Lessons, Islands, and New Friendships: Month Three in Jagna appeared first on Science Corps.

With each passing day of my second month in Jagna, I feel more and more at home. The ocean view from the backyard never fails to captivate me, as does the warmth and generosity of the locals, the lami food, and the richness of the culture. Being here makes me feel closer to my grandmother and deeply appreciative of my journey so far.

My second month began with the CVIF Nutrition Month Culmination program, where students proudly showcased their intricately made fruit and vegetable costumes and strutted the “runway” at the Jagna Cultural Center.  The detail, dedication, and creativity in their designs were so exciting to witness. More importantly, it reminded me that “health is wealth”—and that I should probably start working off all the pancit and rice I’ve been enjoying lately.

While the costumes and celebrations were fun to see, the heart of my Jagna experience has truly been in the classroom. Teaching at CVIF has given me a new perspective on both my students and myself. One of my goals during this second month was to get to know my students better, and for them to know me as well. Normally, I’m quite the introvert, but when I step into the classroom, I can feel their excitement as we prepare to dive into biology and research topics (or maybe it’s just me, haha). One activity I had them do was to write questions for me on index cards—ranging from why I’m here in Jagna, to my career path, to my love for crocheting. Their questions were thoughtful and showed genuine curiosity about my life as a scientist, about careers in science and medicine, and about my perspective on the Philippines so far. I’m definitely looking forward to answering them in future classes.

The students’ curiosity reminded me why I love teaching science in the first place. In my biology and research classes, I’ve been able to connect various topics to the real world while also gauging how students think about them. For example, in biology we’ve covered everything from how disruptions in the cell cycle can lead to cancer to why cells evolved with different structural modifications. The students even debated—quite excitedly—whether gap junctions or tight junctions are more important (spoiler: both are crucial). In research class, I highlighted the importance of crafting a strong research question and hypothesis, drawing on an example from my previous retina research during my postdoc. And of course, I just had to crochet a model of a cell and an eye for the students to enjoy during class!

Remember when I said in my first blog that I couldn’t wait to see what new adventures lay ahead? Well, let me share a few from my second month here in Jagna. To start, I took my very first ferry ride—to Cebu City! Why Cebu, you may ask? Because I just had to taste the famous lechon there, of course. Cebu welcomed me with a bustling energy that reminded me a little of New York City. I admired the century-old fountain at Fuente Osmeña Circle, got lost (literally) in Ayala Mall, stood on golden hands at Sirao Garden’s Little Amsterdam, and visited more coffee shops than I can count (avid coffee lover here). Naturally, I couldn’t resist picking up some yarn at Lots of Yarn Cebu 2.0 so I could keep crocheting. But the best part of Cebu was the people—I made new friends, including one I met from Panglao on the ferry (Hi, Hanna! ).

My second adventure involved a fun marine biology day with Prince and sir Chris Bernido, the president of CVIF. Now, I am no expert in marine biology, but after visiting the Nova Shell Museum in Panglao and seeing shells that resembled cone photoreceptors in the retina, I was sold on learning about the research focus of the CVIF JAZC Marine Science Lab. This is especially true since my students are preparing to write a literature review, most of which centers on marine biology topics. It was the perfect reminder that even outside my own field, science has endless ways to spark curiosity, which is what I hope to inspire in my students.

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The post My Second Month in Jagna: Classrooms, Crocheting, and Curiosity appeared first on Science Corps.

When I first arrived in Jagna, Bohol, Philippines, I had no idea that I would be transported back to my childhood where I’d spent summers with my grandmother in Cedar Lake, Texas, which my family and I proudly call “the country”. I was instantly captivated by the relaxed, rural life here in Jagna and recalled memories of playing outside as a child during long, humid summers in Texas. Now, as an adult, tapping back into my childhood is such an unexpected, yet fulfilling gift that Jagna knew that I needed.

My first month in Jagna felt like I’d already lived here for years. I quickly learned that time passes by slowly here, and fortunately, so has my walking pace. Thus, I’ve re-learned how to stop and admire the surrounding natural beauty- something I used to do often as a child in “the country”. After all, why wouldn’t I want to stare at the rich foliage, endless amount of coconut trees, the ocean, and intricately designed rice paddies?

About 6 months before departing from the U.S., I started preparing for Jagna by learning the Bisaya language (Nagtuon pa ko). However, nothing could prepare me for the delicious food here! You simply can’t tear me away from the bbq, pork adobo, pancit, lumpia, sinigang, lechon, and sweet mangoes. And yes, every now and again, I make sure to eat some fresh vegetables from the local market. I’ve even tried balut (twice in one night, I might add) which was an experience and I am now deemed as an honorary Pinoy, haha.

The people of Jagna have made me feel right at home, and this is no exception at CVIF where the principals, teachers, and students welcomed me with open arms. Teaching general biology and practical research classes have been an eye-opening experience for me as a scientist and educator. It’s definitely forced me to acknowledge my dependence on my laptop/technology. I know this because my first time writing on a chalkboard during class was pretty embarrassing considering my chicken-scratch handwriting vs. the beautiful, Microsoft Word font-like handwriting of my students. No worries, I practiced and got better at it quickly, along with the bonus workout of my right arm during classes.

Outside of my time teaching, I’ve gotten the chance to explore Bohol thanks to the Science Corps Fellowship coordinator, Prince Nayga (Thank you, Prince!). I’ve fearfully and excitedly touched a python, fed a peacock, enjoyed the Loboc River Cruise, marveled at the fist-sized tarsiers, and admired the peaceful Chocolate Hills. One highlight of these experiences is that I also shared these with my mom, who flew all the way from Texas and very much enjoyed her first trip out of the U.S. to the Philippines (Hi Mom!).

My exciting and peaceful first month as a Science Corps Fellow here in Jagna is only the beginning for this native Texan. I can’t wait to see what new adventures lie ahead in the coming months.

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The post Howdy from Jagna! A Texan’s Tale of Food, Nature and Teaching appeared first on Science Corps.

As my time in Jagna, Philippines, draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past two months. From the classroom to the breathtaking landscapes of Bohol, every moment has been filled with growth, connection, and discovery. It’s been a privilege to be part of this vibrant community, and as I say goodbye, I want to share some of the highlights that made these final weeks so special.

Deep Dives into Student Research Projects and Classes

One of the most rewarding aspects of my time here has been witnessing the passion and creativity of the students as they dive deeper into their research projects. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s been thrilling to see them tackle complex questions with curiosity and determination. Whether they’re exploring environmental science, biology, or chemistry, their projects reflect not only their hard work but also their ability to think critically and innovate.

In our chemistry classes, we wrapped up the year by focusing on the fascinating world of intramolecular forces. Understanding how these forces influence the physical and chemical properties of substances has been a game-changer for the students, and it’s been rewarding to see their “aha!” moments as they connect theory to real-world applications.

Preparing for the Future: DNA Extraction

For the students particularly interested in lab work, we held a special research session dedicated to DNA extraction techniques. This was a crucial step in preparing them for the experiments they’ll soon undertake. The discussions were lively, and it was inspiring to see their eagerness to learn and experiment. These sessions aren’t just about acquiring technical skills – they’re about fostering a mindset of inquiry and problem-solving that will serve them well in their future studies and careers.

Sharing Lessons Beyond the Classroom

Outside of regular classes, I had the opportunity to give a talk to the Grade 11 and 12 students, sharing some of the lessons that made my own university experience smoother. From time management to effective study techniques, I hope these insights will help them navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. It was a joy to connect with them on a more personal level and to see their determination to succeed.

Exploring the Wonders of Bohol

Of course, life in Jagna isn’t just about academics. The natural beauty of Bohol has been a constant source of inspiration and adventure. Long tours through the island allowed me to witness the iconic Chocolate Hills, meet the famous Tarsiers, and dive into the crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Swimming alongside huge turtles, exploring underwater treasures, and even encountering thresher and white-tip sharks were experiences I’ll never forget. These moments of awe and wonder have been the perfect balance to the busy school schedule.

A Heartfelt Goodbye

As my time here comes to an end, the farewells have been bittersweet. The school community has become like a second family, and saying goodbye hasn’t been easy. From small, intimate dinners with colleagues to the joyous Christmas celebrations with students and faculty, every moment has been filled with warmth and gratitude. The bonds we’ve formed over these months are a testament to the kindness and generosity of this community, and I will carry these memories with me wherever I go.

Final Thoughts

These past months in Jagna have been a whirlwind of learning, exploration, and connection. From the classroom to the coral reefs, every experience has left a lasting impression. As I prepare to leave, I’m filled with gratitude for the students, colleagues, and friends who have made this journey so meaningful. Jagna will always hold a special place in my heart, and I know that the lessons I’ve learned here—both academic and personal—will stay with me for a lifetime.

Thank you, Jagna, for an unforgettable chapter. Until we meet again!

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The post The Final Two Months in Jagna: A Journey of Learning, Discovery, and Farewell appeared first on Science Corps.

My first month here in Jagna has been a whirlwind of new impressions, connections, and personal discoveries—each day filled with something new and unexpected.

A Warm Welcome at School

From the moment I arrived at the school, I was greeted with warmth and enthusiasm. The faculty embraced me as part of their community, making it easy to feel at home from the start. Everyone took the time to share with me their favorite parts of Bohol – whether it was introducing me to the island’s best dishes or showing me the sights around town. There was even a welcome party, which, as anyone who’s familiar with Filipino culture knows, wouldn’t be complete without some lively karaoke! I may not be the best singer, but joining in was a great way to break the ice.

Building relationships with the students has been equally rewarding. They’ve been curious and welcoming, and very quickly allowed me to share my ideas on education and my knowledge. I am proud and honored to have been given the trust by my students and enjoy working on their chemistry and research projects.

Markus with his students

My Journey in Jagna

Beyond the school, my personal journey in Jagna has been an adventure. I set myself the goal of discovering something new every day, whether it’s tasting a local dish, visiting a new viewpoint, or learning about the culture. The local cuisine alone has been an experience! I’ve enjoyed everything from delicious home-cooked meals to some more unusual delicacies – Balut, for example, is something I’m politely passing on for now, but who knows what the future holds.

Markus trying on Penoy (a milder version of balut – a Filipino delicacy)

The island’s beauty has also been a constant source of joy. From the crystal-clear beaches to the rolling hills, there’s always something new to explore. I’ve been fortunate to be invited to family gatherings by my hosts, experiencing the famed Filipino hospitality firsthand. It’s made me realize one thing for sure: I’ll never go hungry here!

Filipino Lechon during a gathering where Markus attended

Exploring Deeper: My Second Month in Jagna

As my second month in Jagna unfolds, I’ve continued to dive into the rich culture, connect with my students, and, quite literally, dive into the ocean. It’s been a time of new experiences and deeper connections – both with the people here and the beautiful natural surroundings.

Fiesta Fever and Community Spirit

September in Jagna is all about celebration, and I got a full taste of the local fiesta spirit. The town came alive with energy, color, and warmth, and I found myself welcomed into many homes for freshly cooked meals. My highlight – the tuna. It’s no secret that fresh seafood is a staple here, but this, fresh from the water has become my absolute favorite fiesta meal. 

Another exciting part of the festivities was attending my very first beauty pageant. The search for Miss Jagna was a thrilling experience, full of elegance and tradition. And seeing the winner turn out to be a former student of the very school where I’m teaching – it was a proud and joyous moment for the entire community. And of course, no fiesta would be complete without the reenactment of Jagna’s religious history, with vibrant costumes and a dramatic portrayal of St. Michael’s defense of the town against evil; a powerful reminder of the deep-rooted traditions that shape life here.

Jagna Town Fiesta Celebration

Student Projects: Creativity in Action

On the academic front, the second month has been an exciting time as student research projects begin to take shape. I’ve been working closely with the students as they develop proposals on a range of fascinating topics. From evaluating the best renewable energy source for our school to analyzing the biodiversity of the local marine environment, their creativity and enthusiasm are genuinely inspiring. 

Seeing their ideas evolve and their passion for discovery grow has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my time here and it’s a privilege to guide them through the process of turning their curiosity into actionable research. I can’t wait to see their projects take physical shape soon!

Diving Deeper: My Underwater Adventures

On a personal note, I’ve also managed to tick off a major item from my bucket list: getting my open water diving certification! The waters around Jagna are nothing short of magical, with sprawling coral gardens and an incredible variety of marine life. Each dive has revealed something new, from vibrant schools of fish to stunning underwater landscapes. 

The dives so far have been beyond impressive, and I can’t wait to explore more, and if I am lucky, I will soon dive with sharks, turtles, or stingrays. There’s something deeply humbling about being surrounded by such untouched beauty, and it’s clear that the ocean here holds endless treasures yet to be discovered.

A diving spot at Jagna Sea

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The post Discovering Life in the Philippines: My First Month in Jagna appeared first on Science Corps.

Bianca Baldassari did her fellowship in our site at Central Visayan Institute Foundation (CVIF) in the Philippines.

Learn more about Bianca’s adventures below! If Bianca’s experience piques your interest in becoming a fellow yourself, apply here!

In a world brimming with innovation and discovery, the fusion of science and community has never been more vital. Recently, Science Corps had the incredible opportunity to send Bianca Baldassarri, a passionate fellow, to the Philippines, where she dedicated her time to teaching Research and Physics courses at a local site. Her journey is not just a tale of scientific endeavor; it’s a heartfelt story of connection, learning, and inspiration.

Bridging Cultures Through Science and Education

Bianca’s adventure began with her participation in the 10th Jagna International Workshop. Here, she engaged with a diverse group of scientists, educators and enthusiasts, sharing her insights and learning from others. One memorable moment was when she immersed herself in the local culture by learning to wear the “malong,” a versatile Philippine garment that can be used in myriad ways—from a head-dress to a cozy wrap. This simple act symbolized her openness to embracing new experiences and highlighted the beauty of cultural exchange.

Engaging Minds with Physics

Bianca’s primary mission was to ignite a passion for science in her students. With her dedication, she crafted Learning Activity Sheets (LAS) for both research courses and Physics performance tasks. Through engaging projects focused on the dynamics of forces and Newton’s Laws of Motion, she turned complex concepts into exciting challenges for her students. Every day, she would painstakingly handwrite lessons on the board, following the typical CVIF-DLP method, ensuring each student felt connected to the material.

One of her standout contributions was her talk, “Fun Topics in Physics,” delivered as part of the Maria Victoria Carpio Bernido Lecture Series to Grade 11 students. This wasn’t just a lecture; it was a heartfelt invitation to explore the wonders of Physics. Bianca aimed to inspire these young minds to consider careers in engineering and physical sciences, opening up a world of possibilities for their futures.

Celebrating Achievements Together

Bianca’s journey wasn’t just about teaching; it was also about celebrating milestones. She attended the graduation ceremony at CVIF, sharing in the joy and pride of the students’ accomplishments. This moment reinforced the impact of her work and the importance of nurturing young talents who will shape the future of science and technology.

A Journey of Friendship and Growth

Beyond the classroom, Bianca’s time in the Philippines was enriched by her friendship with Alfilgen, a fellow at the Bernido guesthouse. Together, they shared laughter, scheduled reading sessions, and found moments to exercise, creating a bond that transcended their professional roles. These connections remind us that collaboration and camaraderie are integral to personal and professional growth.

Exploring the Beauty of Bohol

After attending the 10th Jagna International Conference, Bianca had the chance to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Bohol, including the famous Chocolate Hills and the enchanting Loboc River on a floating restaurant cruise. These experiences not only filled her heart with joy but also deepened her appreciation for the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the Philippines.

Inspiring a New Generation

During her fellowship at the Central Visayan Institute Foundation in the Philippines, Bianca Baldassarri made a remarkable impact through her dedication to teaching and her ability to connect with senior high school students. By advising them on their research projects and sharing insights during career talks, she fostered curiosity and inspired the next generation of scientists in Physics and beyond. If you’re interested in the meaningful work Science Corps is doing to empower students and educators in underserved communities, check out the Science Corps website. Additionally, if you wish to support our mission to enhance STEM education, consider making a donation here.

The post Fellow Update! Bianca Baldassarri in CVIF, Philippines appeared first on Science Corps.