A Strong Start: NWU Freshmen Embark on Their Journey Through Freshmenia 2025
Freshmania, the annual tradition celebrated by every Northwesternian, officially welcomed a new sets of students for Academic Year 2025-2026 with the theme “Born to be Leaders” at the Aquino MultiPurpose Center on August 8, 2025. The event marked the beginning of a journey as the start of their academic pursuits at Northwestern University.
Spearheaded by the Supreme Student Council, the festivities began with a campus tour across the different colleges, giving the first-year students from various departments an opportunity to explore the university grounds and familiarize themselves with their new environment. Each departments prepared an interactive and engaging booths designed to introduce their programs and spark enthusiasm for their chosen paths.
Following the tour, the energy continued to rise as the crowd was treated to musical performances from local bands, composing of 30 Something, Matilda, After 4, Lavanders, Kaizen, After 6, ESTS, Tape Monkeys, and After 5 energizing the students and setting the tone for a memorable afternoon.
Moreover, the program opened with an Admin’s Welcome from Prof. Agustina A. Dancel Matias, Dean of Student Affairs, who emphasized the value of education and belonging to the university. “Ang edukasyon ay isang karapatan at pribilehiyo pero sa pagiging miyembro ng Northwestern University, it’s more than a privilege dahil narito kaya sa pinakamalaking pribadong unibersidad,” she shared. “Tayo na at sama-sama nating isabuhay, tayo na at tayo’y maging CHAMPions, ating isabuhayang mga mahahalagang values ng CHAMPS.” She encouraged students to embrace the opportunities and to live by the university’s core values.
This was followed by Marc Lawrence Faylogna, President of the Supreme Student Council (SSC), who extended a warm student welcome and introduced the new set of SSC officers. “This year, we will lead with three guiding commitments. First, we will listen, because your voices matter in our paradise. Second, we will act, because change requires more than just promises. And number three, we will connect. Because leadership isn’t about being above you, but standing beside you,” he emphasized.
Furthermore, Mr. Jon Oscar Lois Rodas, Media Representative Chair, took the stage next to introduce the university’s administrators, deans, and vice presidents, acknowledging the people who will help shape the academic journey of the students.
Subsequently, the highlight of the event was the inspirational message from University President, Atty. Ferdinand S. Nicolas, who conveyed the university’s warmest welcome to the new batch of students. “We heartily welcome you to the Northwestern University family. And we truly hope that throughout this year, throughout your stay here, you will find your heart filled with joy,” he expressed.
The Freshmania concluded with a captivating performance by the Saguday Performing Group and members of the SSC, symbolizing the spirit of togetherness and community that defines Northwestern University. With high hopes and renewed excitement, the event served as a fulfilling start to the academic journey of NWU’s newest CHAMPions.
