Three students from the College of Computer Studies (CCS) participated in the Bali International Summer School 2026, with the theme, “Living Harmony: Cultural Heritage and Immersive Technology Innovation” hosted by FCU partner institution, Institut Bisnis dan Teknologi Indonesia (INSTIKI), Bali, Indonesia.

Mardy P. Besana, Franzine Kaye D. Eclar, and Mary Crystal Aila P. Garganza, all BSIT-3 students, together with their adviser, Ms. Jeanny Jean T. Escalada, participated in the different activities that include online sessions on July 6-17, and the onsite program that runs from July 19 to 25.

          The Filamerian students also presented their augmented/virtual reality project featuring some of the festivals in the Philippines and introducing them to other delegates from Malaysia and Indonesia.

          “My overall experience was deeply fulfilling and satisfying. At first, I thought it would be hard to communicate and bond with everyone, but it went smoothly because everyone was so kind and friendly. They made my time in Bali unforgettable, and I will always cherish these memories,” said Mardy Besana.

          In the web development project, Mardy Besana and her team won the Most Creative Idea, while Franzine Kaye Eclar’s team was awarded Best Project Presentation, and Mary Crystal Aila Garganza and her group garnered the Best Project award. While in the language learning activities, Mardy Besana won a special award for her sharp skills.

The summer school provided interdisciplinary learning experiences that integrate cultural exploration with immersive technology innovation. Lectures, practical workshops, cultural field studies, independent learning activities, and collaborative project-based learning were some of the activities participated by the students.

“During our cultural visit, we observed the traditional process of making a Canang Sari, a daily Balinese offering that symbolizes gratitude and devotion. . . Since this was my first time experiencing and creating a Canang Sari, every step of the process was unfamiliar to me. With the guidance and support of my groupmates, I was able to better understand not only the techniques involved in preparing the offering but also the cultural and spiritual significance behind each element. This hands-on experience deepened my appreciation for Balinese traditions and allowed me to gain a more meaningful understanding of their values and practices,” shared Franzine Kaye Eclar on her memorable experience during the Summer School.

On the other hand, Mary Crystal Aila P. Garganza expressed, “Participating in a Batik workshop at Bali Bidadari Batik was a deeply eye-opening experience. As we chose our designs and tried our hand at the process, I gained a newfound respect for handmade art. Crafting these beautiful patterns takes immense effort, skill, and patience. Experiencing it yourself makes you realize that true artisan craft is priceless and deserves far more appreciation than standard mass-produced items.”

This cohort stands as proof that at FCU, internationalization is not just a strategy on paper, but an active, lived experience that continues to transform students.

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