October 15, 2024
by Zeth Angelo Bacaoco
Becoming a teacher is often seen as a culmination of experience, but for some, it’s a continuation of learning and a chance to inspire others. For Jon Lorence Panelo, Krizza Lorraine Rivas, and Mary Joy Therese Saludo, the journey from being students to standing in front of the class as instructors has been transformative. These recent graduates, each from different disciplines—Aviation Management, Aircraft Maintenance Technology, and Entertainment and Multimedia Computing—are redefining what it means to teach. By drawing from their own experiences as students, they are building classrooms where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking thrive
Jon Panelo: Guiding the Future of Aviation Management
For Jon Lorence Panelo, a graduate of Aviation Management, teaching feels like an extension of his passion for learning. Inspired by his part-time instructors, who balanced industry careers with teaching, Adrian decided to pursue a similar path. “They showed me the value of dedicating time to nurture future professionals,” he shared.
Jon’s journey into teaching began after his internship at Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority. “It was a rollercoaster ride,” he recalled. “From my internship to being promoted as a full-time research assistant, and now becoming a part-time aviation management instructor.” He believes that teaching allows him to continue learning, even from his students. “I often learn from their answers, assessments, and participation. It’s the feeling of still being ‘like a student’ that surprises me the most. Being around students keeps me feeling young and inspired.”
In his classes, Jon simplifies complex topics by using straightforward language and relatable examples. “My instructors during my studies inspired me to do the same. Real-world examples make it easier for students to understand and connect with the material.”
He also offers extra support to help students navigate challenges he once faced, like balancing academic demands. “Weekly papers were tough, but now I help my students by providing consultation hours. I guide them not just in my safety management class but also as an adviser in their strategic management projects.”
Jon’s advice to aspiring aviation professionals reflects his own experience: “Enjoy the process, and make the most of your internship. Aviation management can be challenging, but it’s also rewarding. Your struggles will shape you into a professional ready to take on the real world.”
Krizza Rivas: Precision and Passion in Aircraft Maintenance
Krizza Loraine Rivas, a graduate of Aircraft Maintenance Technology, found her calling as an educator in her love for sharing knowledge. “I’ve always enjoyed explaining concepts to classmates, especially before exams,” she said. Transitioning into teaching felt like a natural step, allowing her to channel her passion for learning into guiding others.
Krizza credits her time as a student for shaping her teaching philosophy. “Time management was a critical lesson for me. I juggled academics, extracurriculars, and personal commitments. There was even a time when I had 16 exams in one week, but I still made time for family. I tell my students that while academics are important, being a good person matters more. Balance your studies with time for friends, family, and self-care.”
As an instructor for AV Math 1 and AVI 111, Krizza ensures her lessons are engaging and practical. “I use visuals like pictures, diagrams, and videos to make abstract concepts tangible. If resources aren’t available, I draw diagrams on the board. Exercises and oral recitations help students connect theory to real-world applications while honing their analytical and communication skills.”
Remembering her own struggles as a first-year student, Krizza incorporates regular reviews and links new topics to previously covered ones. “It’s overwhelming to manage so much information, but I help my students see how everything ties together. This approach boosts their confidence and retention.”
Krizza’s advice to her students centers on focusing on growth rather than grades. “Grades are just numbers. What matters is becoming a well-rounded professional. Take time to appreciate what truly brings peace and happiness to your heart. Everything else will follow.”
Mary Saludo: Breathing Life into Animation
Mary Joy Therese Saludo, a graduate of Entertainment and Multimedia Computing, discovered her love for teaching through animation. As an instructor for Intermediate Acting in Animation, Sophia views teaching as a chance to revisit and refine her skills. “The most exciting part of teaching is being on the other side of the classroom,” she said. “I get to teach concepts I wish had been taught more deeply during my studies.”
Mary emphasizes the importance of individuality in her teaching. “Animation is a skills-based discipline, and I encourage students to develop their own styles while mastering the basics. Creativity flourishes when students are given the freedom to explore and express themselves.”
Staying current with technology is a priority for Mary. “Animation is constantly evolving, so I introduce students to emerging tools like motion capture. This semester, I organized a live demo using Rokoko’s motion capture suit. It’s not required for animation, but it gives students a glimpse into cutting-edge techniques.”
Mary also tackles common misconceptions about animation. “Many students think they need to be great at drawing to animate well, but animating and drawing are different skills. Mastering the basics of form is enough to start. Practice is key—nobody gets it perfect the first time.”
For Mary, technical and creative challenges often overlap. “In multimedia, even technical problems can be creative problems. How shiny should a material appear? How should an object bounce? These decisions require both technical precision and artistic judgment.”
Her advice to aspiring animators is straightforward: “Keep creating, even if it’s not perfect. Growth comes from consistent effort, and every project is a step forward.”
Empowering the Next Generation
Despite their different disciplines, Jon, Krizza, and Mary share a common goal: to prepare their students for successful careers. They bring fresh perspectives to their classrooms, blending technical expertise with a deep understanding of their students’ needs.
Jon builds connections between theory and practice, simplifying complex concepts and fostering a supportive environment. Krizza emphasizes balance and practical applications, ensuring her students are prepared for the demands of aircraft maintenance. Mary bridges technical and creative elements, inspiring her students to push boundaries and explore new possibilities.
Their teaching methods reflect their own experiences as students, creating classrooms where learning is collaborative and inspiring. They prove that the best teachers are those who never stop learning, and for these young educators, teaching is not just a job—it’s a passion.
Jon, Krizza, and Mary are more than instructors; they are mentors shaping the next generation of aviation professionals, and animators. Their dedication ensures that their students are not only equipped with knowledge and skills but also with the confidence to take on the challenges of their chosen fields.
For these educators, stepping into the role of a teacher is a journey of growth, discovery, and making a difference—one lesson at a time.