The trip was organized by the college’s TRIO Student Support Services Program, which is federally funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Education.
The purpose of the trip was to assist students explore and expand knowledge on Guam’s culture, current lifestyles, traditions, modern factors influencing the indigenous culture, and spiritual means that shape ancient and current rituals and beliefs.
Student travelers include Robert Deleon Guerrero, Dyenina Diaz, Odin Garces, Silvester Javier, Christine Lely, Nina Manglona, Werlly Quitugua, Raylyn Sakisat, Jose Tudela Jr., Xerxes Mangarero, Lena Wabol, and Lorna Manahane.
These students were chosen based on their ability to demonstrate leadership skills and their active involvement in daily TRIO program activities and events.
The students were chaperoned by Clarice Arriola, Student Support Services programs manager, and Neda Camacho, SSS counselor.
The trip featured educational-related field trips to distinguished sites such as Fish Eye Marine Park, the Talofofo Falls and Parks and the Guam’s Underwater World Aquarium.
Some of the activities that took place within the field trip sites include observation of Polynesian dance performances, observation of historical artifacts and information about World War II in museums, gondola rides overlooking sites that relate to historical materials found in the museums, and an underwater world experience through a 319 feet long aquarium.
Students were also given the opportunity to visit the University of Guam and participate in a campus tour that educated them about the institution’s dormitories, library services, financial aid options, counseling services, and campus amenities.
The intent of the tour was to expose educational opportunities outside of Saipan and to provide a general feel of a four-year college.
“The trip to Guam was very educational,” said Lena Wabol. “The campus tour gave me more insight on UOG’s academic programs, financial options, and housing.”
“The cultural exploration was a huge success. The students were fascinated by the fast-paced nature of Guam’s lifestyle compared to that of Saipan and the UOG campus tour allowed students to become more familiar with its four-year academic programs,” said Clarice Arriola.
NMC’s Student Support Services is an outreach program that provides students with options for academic success, assists students with basic college requirements, and advises those who aspire to attain higher education.
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