October 7, 2024 — UP Diliman Student Union Building buzzed with excitement as students gathered for the highly anticipated "Getting Started with Blockchain: Guided Learning for Career Impact" workshop.

This in-person event, organized in collaboration with the UP Investment Club, aimed to enlighten attendees on the fundamentals of blockchain technology and the myriad of opportunities it presents.

The workshop kicked off promptly at 1:00 PM, following a brief period of preparations and registration. As students settled in, anticipation filled the room. The opening remarks, delivered by the UPIC President, set the stage for an engaging experience.

Patricia Arro: A Treasure of Knowledge

Patricia Arro, a co-contributor of Polkadot SEA and OpenGuild, was the event's keynote speaker. Her expertise in blockchain was palpable as she introduced the first topic: "Introduction to Blockchain." Over the next 40 minutes, Patricia captivated the audience with her insights, breaking down complex concepts into digestible segments. Attendees learned about the foundational elements of blockchain technology, its potential to revolutionize industries, and how they could leverage this knowledge for their careers.

During the session, participants were encouraged to engage actively, and many seized the opportunity to ask questions. This interactive format not only enhanced learning but also fostered a sense of community among attendees.

Boosting Careers Through Blockchain Education 

After a brief raffle break, where four lucky winners took home 250 pesos each, the workshop transitioned to the second discussion. Patricia’s second topic, "Boost Your Career and Unlock Opportunities with Blockchain Education," echoed the importance of continuous learning in a fast-evolving technological landscape.

With insights from industry leaders, including Jiro Reyes, Founder and CEO of Bitskwela, and Andrea Pilapil, Blockchain Student Alliance Head, students were informed about various career paths within the blockchain ecosystem. The open forum that followed allowed for a rich exchange of ideas and experiences, with Patricia and Jiro addressing questions from eager participants.

Leaving Inspired: The Future of Blockchain Careers Awaits

As the event drew to a close, two additional raffle winners were selected, each receiving 500 pesos. The energy in the room was electric, filled with conversations about future endeavors in the blockchain space.

Finally, a photo opportunity provided everyone a moment to capture memories from this enriching experience. As attendees exited the venue, they carried with them not only knowledge but also a newfound enthusiasm for exploring blockchain careers.

In conclusion, the "Getting Started with Blockchain" workshop successfully fulfilled its mission of educating students and igniting their passion for blockchain technology. This event marks just the beginning of many more initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation of innovators and leaders in the digital age.