Every year, 3rd-year students of our program take part in what we call ‘The Pinning Ceremony’. In this ceremony, students receive a pin that symbolizes the official start of their practicums. They also receive a white apron, which is the traditional workwear of pre-service teachers in Chile. In this heart-warming ceremony, a family member or close friend presents the pre-service teacher with a white apron and helps them put it on. Then, a faculty member places the pin on their lapel.
There is another important event that we celebrate on the same occasion. It is the completion of the Bachelor’s Degree in Education. In this ceremony, 5th-year students proudly receive a Certificate of Achievement that is given by the Department of Education.

This year, the Master of Ceremony was Ignacio Vargas, who received his pin and apron last year. He welcomed professors, students and their families and introduced the speakers. The crowd was first addressed by Professor Marcia Adams, Pro-vice-chancellor of Academic Affairs; After that, Ms. Soledad Sandoval, Practicums Coordinating Professor and Rodrigo Lagos, Head of the Department of Education spoke to the attendees.

Camila Corro, a final-year English student, gave a sentimental touch to the event with her beautiful performance of Abba’s Slipping through my fingers. Carlos Miranda, 5th-year student, spoke representing his fellow classmates. On behalf of the students receiving their pins, Eduardo Barria gave an inspiring speech.

“We want to inspire, guide and challenge the young minds that will be the future of our society. We are ready to face the challenges ahead because we have received and continue to receive valuable tools throughout our training.”

The ceremony was, undoubtedly, a great step and a very special moment in the progression of gaining professional skills, marking a new achievement in their academic processes as future teachers, bringing them a step closer to being fully prepared to become English teachers.