The inaugural batch of the ESSU College of Medicine finally began their academic journey through an eventful orientation program today, August 3, 2026. The occasion marked the first step for the University’s pioneering medical students as they embark on a path toward becoming compassionate, competent, and community-oriented physicians.

The activities featured engaging team-building exercises that allowed the students to get to know one another while fostering meaningful connections with their faculty mentors. Faculty mentors and the college leadership warmly welcomed the pioneering class, sharing valuable insights and setting realistic expectations about the demands, discipline, and rewarding experience of medical school.

Students were also briefed on the essential policies, academic procedures, and student support services of the ESSU College of Medicine. Discussions with faculty members covered admissions, attendance, registration, scholarships, laboratory and library services, mental health programs, curriculum, grading system, promotion and retention policies, as well as student affairs, ensuring that every student begins their journey well-informed and prepared.

In the afternoon, the activities began with a thanksgiving mass led by University Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Christian M. Ofilan. Adding to the significance of the event, the class officially chose their batch name, elected their class officers. Leading the University’s welcome were ESSU President Dr. Andres C. Pagatpatan, Jr. and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Aris A. Lapada, who both reaffirmed the University’s commitment to nurturing the region’s future doctors, starting with the pioneering class.