Informal Astronomy Class: Last Session

Ever since I started pursuing astrophysics, I learned that astronomy students and early-career astronomers usually do an "outreach" program. This could be in the form of giving public speeches, holding public exhibitions about astronomy, or going to local communities and doing stargazing events for free. I thought of doing the same thing, but in the form of an online astronomy course for interested senior high school and college students. I decided to do this because I thought it would be nice if young Filipinos could have the opportunity to take such a class in a stress-free environment, where they can see and think about whether astronomy is really for them or not. And if they believe astronomy is for them, then my class could serve as an avenue for them to learn some stock knowledge when they pursue higher studies. These goals are based on my own experiences; back then I wasn't so sure if astronomy was really for me because I didn't have the opportunity to learn it in my undergraduate program. It would be nice if I can break this cycle in my own way.

Last April 2022, I started this outreach program with SEDS Philippines officials as the initial audience. We had a 1.5-hour session every other Saturday, at 5 pm PH time. I taught all the basic knowledge in astronomy, from stellar astrophysics to cosmology and even up to galaxy astrophysics and black holes. Eventually, we expanded to accommodating astronomy students from Rizal Technological University (RTU) and the University of the Philippines (UP), thanks to my ever-helpful and supportive connections. Today marks the end of my 8-month outreach program when we finally met face-to-face. I learned so much about teaching astronomy to college students and I hope all of my students have also learned a thing or two from my classes.

I am very glad to see so many young Filipinos interested in astrophysics; some of them even want to pursue higher studies abroad. As a Filipino astrophysicist, it is my personal goal to help nurture young astronomers in the country and promote the importance of astrophysics and science not just in our everyday lives but also in nation-building. There is so much more to see and learn in astronomy than just stars and planets because to me, it is the greatest way to appreciate our place here in the Universe.

I extend my gratitude to everyone who made this outreach possible; you know who you are!