An OFW tops the 2007 UPOU graduating class
Yes it’s final! For two consecutive years now, Diploma in Research and Development Management (DR&DM) students have been topping the graduating class.
Susan Eleanor Claro is the valedictorian for the UPOU’s graduating class of 2007. Susan works as a Technical and Management Adviser and Country Representative for Health Unlimited (HU), a UK-based NGO in Laos. Her work involves managing and developing the HU Laos country programme and liaising with government authorities, counterparts and development aid donors.
Susan’s work is definitely a noble one. Health Unlimited envisages a world in which the poorest and most marginalised enjoy their right to health. They work with communities, service providers, policy makers, and donors in difficult environments in Africa, Asia and Latin America to secure access to effective primary health care for marginalised people affected by conflict, instability, or discrimination.
Her being based in Laos did not prevent her from completing her degree in DR&DM, and this, on top of her class. She chose UPOU because it is the only university she knows that offers distance learning program. She said she had no hesitation in enrolling at UPOU because UP is known for its quality instruction and learning systems.
Her strong desire for professional advancement and career enhancement without necessarily stopping work was the main reason for her decision to enrol with UPOU.
Although very busy with her work, Susan made sure that her studies did not disrupt her work and vice versa. She disciplined herself to make full use of her after-work hours, weekends, including transit time at bus stations and airports. Logging on to the IVLE, reading, and posting discussion notes have been her routine for the past two years which she admits she now misses.
According to her, technology has helped a lot in their studies. Online resources and e-mails from faculty and classmates have enhanced the learning process. Cooperation and concern of classmates in complying with group requirements was also a noteworthy experience for her that also helped her complete her studies.
The most rewarding experience for her as a UPOU student was being able to achieve her aim of finishing her program at the same time having reaped successes in her job.
When asked if she would recommend UPOU to her colleagues and friends, a definite yes was her answer.
Her words for UPOU.... "My appreciation and thanks to the faculty and staff of the University for facilitating learning processes and assisting us in our pursuit for formal higher education. Let’s not only aim for excellence but strive to make a difference in our homes, workplaces and communities to make our world happier and safer to live in, not only for us now but for the coming generations." (Joane Serrano, FMDS)