Session on “Resume Building and Portfolio Creation in LinkedIn” for BCA and BVoc(ST) students

The Department of Computer Science under TechTrendz Club in association with Career Training Internship Placement organized a hands-on training session on “Resume Building and Portfolio Creation on LinkedIn” for the TY BCA and TY BVoc.(ST) students, on 7th August 2024 in class S207 from 12.30pm to 1.30pm. The resource person for the session was Asst. Prof. Mr. Ramkrishna Reddy from the Department of Computer Science of the college.

The session began with a focus on creating resumes that are optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Mr. Ramkrishna Reddy explained the importance of using clean, structured formats that can be easily parsed by ATS software, which is commonly used by employers to filter job applications. The students were guided on how to prioritize and present their skills, experiences, and qualifications in a way that maximizes their chances of passing through ATS filters.

An innovative aspect of the session was the introduction of AI tools, such as ChatGPT, to assist in resume building. Mr. Reddy demonstrated how students could use ChatGPT to check and refine their resumes for ATS compatibility. This tool can help students ensure that their resumes are not only ATS-friendly but also tailored to specific job descriptions, increasing their chances of being noticed by recruiters.

The importance of LinkedIn as a professional networking platform was emphasized during the session. Mr. Reddy guided the students through the process of setting up a LinkedIn profile, starting with creating a strong headline, crafting a compelling summary, and selecting a professional profile photo. He stressed the importance of consistency between their resumes and LinkedIn profiles and advised on how to showcase their skills, experiences, and achievements in a way that attracts potential employers and connections. Maintaining an up-to-date LinkedIn profile is crucial for professional visibility. Mr. Reddy covered strategies for regularly updating profiles with new experiences, certifications, skills, and achievements. The students learned how to effectively manage their profiles to reflect their evolving career goals and accomplishments.

In the final segment of the session, Mr. Reddy demonstrated how to leverage LinkedIn’s job search features. He provided tips on using advanced search filters to find job opportunities that align with the students’ career aspirations. The students were also shown how to set up job alerts, apply directly through LinkedIn, and track their applications. Mr. Reddy emphasized the importance of customizing their applications for each job and using LinkedIn’s networking tools to reach out to recruiters and professionals in their desired industry.

The faculties in-charge for the session were Asst. Prof.  Mr. Amogh Pai Raiturkar and Asst. Prof. Ms. Yugandhara Joshi, under the guideship of Asst. Prof. Annette Santimano, faculty in-charge of TechTrendz Club. A total of 23 students (12 male, 11 female) participated in this informative session.

Expected Outcome of the Activity: 

Students can develop optimized LinkedIn profiles that effectively highlight their academic achievements, skills, and work experiences, and learn how to regularly update these profiles to stay relevant to employers. They can learn to create professional portfolios showcasing their work and achievements, integrated into their LinkedIn profiles. Additionally, they can acquire skills to search and apply for jobs on LinkedIn, using advanced filters to find opportunities based on location, industry, and job function.

Sustainable Tourism: Balancing Economic Growth and Environmental Preservation

The Yuva Tourism Club of VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics organized a motivating session on ‘Sustainable Tourism: Balancing Economic Growth and Environmental Preservation’ on 7th August 2024 at 12:00 noon in Hall 02 on the 5th Floor. The session commenced with an introduction by Ms. Jesvi Cardozo, a TY BBA(FS) student, that emphasized the critical need for sustainable tourism. She highlighted how adopting such practices can ensure not only the preservation of our environment but also foster long-term economic benefits for communities and nations alike.

The resource person for the session, Mr. Murali Shankaran, Co-Founder of “Make It Happen”, delivered a thought-provoking presentation. “Make It Happen” is an experiential travel company which specializes in designing and curating unique experiences that champion local cultures and help travelers connect with local communities in a more meaningful way. Since its inception in 2011, founder Ms. Maria Victor and co-founder Mr. Murali Shankaran have built on their initial vision to celebrate local heritage, foster collaboration, nurture local talent and promote intercultural harmony. Mr. Shankaran discussed various innovative sustainable tourism practices implemented worldwide, emphasizing the necessity of integrating environmental considerations into tourism planning and operations. His presentation focused on the vital role of promoting local culture, reducing the environmental footprint of tourism, and leveraging technology to support sustainable initiatives.

The session was highly interactive, encouraging active participation from the audience. Discussions centered around strategies to minimize tourism’s environmental impact, the significance of preserving and promoting local heritage, and the potential of technology to enhance sustainable tourism efforts. These discussions provided valuable insights into the practical challenges and opportunities in adopting sustainable tourism practices.

Mr. Murali also introduced a forthcoming course on sustainable tourism, organized by CTED. Upon completion, the participants will receive a certificate from Goa Tourism as licensed Heritage presenters, with opportunities to work in the experiential tourism sector and receive incubation support for new tourism initiatives.

The session concluded with a lively Q&A session, leaving participants with a comprehensive understanding of balancing economic growth and environmental preservation in tourism. The event was effectively managed by Asst. Prof. Ms. Delisha Rebello and was marked by the enthusiastic participation of 60 students (37 male, 23 female).

Expected Outcome of the Activity:

Participants are expected to gain a comprehensive understanding of balancing economic growth with environmental preservation in tourism. They will learn about innovative sustainable tourism practices, the importance of promoting local culture, and how technology can support these efforts. This newfound knowledge is anticipated to inspire participants to adopt sustainable practices in their own future tourism endeavors, thereby contributing positively to the field.

Project Orientation for TY BCom students

The Examination Committee of VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics, organized a Project Orientation for TY BCom students on 6th August 2024 in Hall 1 at 12:00 pm. The event began with a welcome address by the Vice-Principal (Academics) Dr. Edwin Barretto. Following the welcome, the Examination Convenor, Prof. Subrahmanya Bhat K. M., introduced the resource person, Dr. Narayan Parab, Assistant Professor at Goa Business School, Goa University.  Dr. Shami Pai, Vice-Principal (Administration) was also present for the programme.

Dr. Parab began his session by guiding the students on how to select a topic for their projects. He emphasized the importance of choosing a specific area and sub-areas to finalize the topic, advising students to refer to quality journals and publications for conducting quality research. He also provided a briefing on the structure of the report and highlighted the importance of including a literature review. His insights and expertise in research were instrumental in helping students understand the project requirements.

The orientation session was attended by B.Com faculty and 163 students (56 male, 107 female). The session concluded at 1:15 pm with a vote of thanks proposed by the Project Coordinator, Dr. Sheetal Arondekar. The session was compered by Ms. Ruby Mahato from TY BCom.

Resume Building and Portfolio Creation on LinkedIn for TY BCom. students

The Career Training Internship and Placement Cell in association with the Department of Commerce of VVM’s Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics, Margao, Goa, organized a session titled ‘Resume Building and Portfolio Creation on LinkedIn’ on 5th August 2024 from 12.30 pm to 1.45 pm in the Smart classroom.

The primary objectives of this session were to provide students with practical insights into creating effective resumes and CVs, understanding Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), utilizing online job platforms/ portals, and leveraging LinkedIn for Job hunting.

The resource person was Mr. Ramkrishna Reddy, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science. Ms. Pooja Shanbhag, Asst. Professor in Commerce and member of CTIP Cell served as the compere for the program. Dr. Shami Pai, Vice-Principal (Administration) welcomed the gathering and addressed the students.

Mr. Reddy commenced the session by discussing the difference between a resume and a CV. He explained how ATS software is used by employers to streamline the hiring process by scanning and filtering resumes. He highlighted the importance of using relevant keywords and a simple, ATS-friendly format to increase the chances of a resume passing through the system. Further, he also mentioned popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Naukri.com, Monster.com, Indeed etc. to connect with recruiters for successful placements.

Mr. Ramkrishna emphasized the importance of certificate courses in enhancing skills and staying current with industry trends. He advised students to pursue relevant certifications to strengthen their resumes and showcase their commitment to continuous learning. Additionally, he provided detailed step-by-step guidance on creating a professional LinkedIn profile, covering aspects such as selecting a profile photo, crafting a headline, writing a summary, and listing work experience. The speaker emphasized on building connections with industry professionals, experts, successful alumni, and potential employers. Mr. Ramkrishna also demonstrated how to effectively utilize LinkedIn for job hunting, including using the job search feature, following companies, and engaging with content to boost visibility.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Anjali Sajilal, Convenor of CTIP Cell to Mr. Ramkrishna for his invaluable insights and practical advice to students on how to navigate the online platforms for exploring job opportunities. The session ended at 1.45 pm. A total of 51 interested students participated for the same. Ms. Pooja Shanbhag and Ms. Kalpana Parab, faculty members and representatives of the CTIP cell, ensured the smooth conduct of the session.

Online Talk on Leadership Lessons from Ramayana

The Department of Management Studies screened an insightful online talk titled “Leadership Lessons from Ramayana” held by Goa Management Association. The session took place on 3rd August 2024 from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon and featured Mr. Saurav Sharma, a renowned TEDx speaker and industry expert, as the guest speaker. A total of 68 students from the BBA and BBA(FS) programmes attended the session

Mr. Sharma commenced the session by discussing about how old Epics like the Ramayana are still important for today’s leaders and managers. He pointed out that the virtues embodied by the characters in the Ramayana are analogous to the qualities required by today’s leaders in the business world.

Mr. Sharma emphasized the significance of having a clear plan, being trustworthy, adaptable, and patient as key traits for effective leadership. He drew parallels between successful leadership and the character of Lord Rama, who stayed committed to his goals. Furthermore, he said that leaders need a clear vision to motivate their teams. He also stressed that leaders should be flexible and able to handle changes in business. The session concluded with insights on the value of patience and wisdom, supported by illustrative stories from the Ramayana.

Expected Outcome of the Activity:

The session aimed to create awareness and inculcate valuable leadership lessons derived from the ancient epic, Ramayana.

Inter-Class Football Tournament (Men & Women)

The Department of Physical Education and Sports organized an Inter-Class Football Tournament for both Men and Women over three days, from August 2nd to August 5th, 2024, starting at 11:30 am. The tournament was held at the Vidya Vikas Mandal Ground, behind Vidya Vikas Academy. A total of 26 teams participated in the tournament, including 23 men’s teams and 3 women’s teams.

The tournament commenced with an opening address by Mr. Dewaraj Hirekurabar, the College Director of Physical Education and Sports. The matches followed a knockout format, with the fixtures being drawn prior to the event. Each match consisted of two halves, each lasting 10 minutes with a 3-minute interval. However, the finals were extended to 15 minutes per half.

Tournament Results:

Position
Men’s Category:
Women’s Category:

1st Place
SY B.COM C
B.COM (Mix)

2nd Place
TY BBA(FS)
——

3rd Place
TY B.COM A & D
——

Best Player (Men’s)
Mr. Gaurav Singh

The winners were announced, and the prizes will be distributed on August 15th, during the Independence Day celebrations.

The tournament concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Mr. Saurabh Raikar, an Instructor in Physical Education, acknowledging the efforts of all participants and organizers.

TechTrendz Club Orientation and Brainstorming Session

The TechTrendz Club of the Computer Science Department organized an TechTrendz Club Orientation Session on 29th July 2024, in Classrooms F101, S201, and S202 for the students of First Year BCA and BVoc(ST). The purpose of the session was to acquaint the students with the TechTrendz Club – Student’s Technology Club, its objectives, the various events conducted in past years, and the numerous prizes awarded for each event. A total of 85 students from the BCA and BVoc(ST) programmes attended the orientation. The sessions were conducted by Ms. Annette Santimano and Ms. Yugandhara Joshi, faculty in-charge of the TechTrendz Club.

Following the orientation, a brainstorming session was held for the BCA and BVoc(ST) students. During this session, students explored diverse ideas for competitions under three categories:

Multimedia Group
Future Skill Group
Software Development Group

The brainstorming session ignited the students’ minds and spirits, preparing them for various in-house Information Technology-based competitions. Students shared numerous ideas, setting the stage for a vibrant and engaging academic year filled with technology-driven initiatives and competitions.

Faculty Knowledge Sharing Program

The IBS organized a one-day session for the faculty members across Goa, on 27th July 2024, at The Crown Goa, Panjim, Goa, between 9:30 am to 4:00 pm. The session was themed on ‘Spiritual Intelligence – The Way Forward to Effectively Navigate the World of Artificial Intelligence & Enhancing Classroom Engagement’. The resource persons were Prof. Surjyabrat Buragohain & Prof. Raghavendra Rao Ghat. It was attended by faculty members Ms. Cinola Vaz and Mr. Andre Pacheco, and highlighted the unique intersection of Spiritual Intelligence (SI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in modern education.

Prof. Surjyabrat Buragohain, Associate Dean & Dy. PCO of IBS Bangalore, led the discussion on Spiritual Intelligence (SI), emphasizing its role as the ability to apply spiritual values—such as self-awareness, compassion, wisdom, and a sense of connection with others and the universe—in meaningful ways. He explained that SI enables individuals to discover deeper meaning and purpose in life, which in turn guides ethical decision-making and fosters personal growth.

A significant aspect of SI is self-awareness, which empowers students to recognize their strengths and areas for improvement. By understanding their learning styles and preferences, students can adopt more effective strategies, leading to enhanced learning outcomes. Integrating SI into educational settings encourages students to explore their inner lives, understand their intrinsic motivations, and develop a strong sense of purpose. This holistic approach not only promotes personal growth but also aligns students’ learning experiences with their core values and beliefs, ultimately boosting academic performance.

Prof. Raghavendra Rao Ghat, Associate Dean & Dy ACO of IBS Bangalore, continued the session by discussing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. He elaborated on how AI significantly enhances classroom engagement through personalized learning experiences, interactive tools, intelligent tutoring systems, and data-driven insights. AI also provides efficient administrative support and fosters collaboration, making it an invaluable tool in modern classrooms.

The session successfully highlighted the importance of integrating Spiritual Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence in education. By fostering self-awareness, compassion, and a sense of purpose, SI promotes personal growth and improves academic performance. Simultaneously, AI offers innovative tools and insights that greatly enhance classroom engagement and learning outcomes. Together, SI and AI provide a comprehensive educational approach, preparing students to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Faculty Induction cum KYC Programme (Know-Your-Colleague)

The Faculty Development Cell, in collaboration with the Staff Recreation Cell, organized a successful faculty induction and Know-Your-Colleagues (KYC) programme on 27th July 2024, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Hall No.1, 5th Floor – Central Block. The programme aimed to facilitate introductions among the faculty members, fostering better acquaintance and camaraderie within the institution.

Ms. Pooja Shanbhag, Assistant Professor in Commerce and member of the recreation club, welcomed the participations and provided an overview about the programme. The event commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. Sanjay P. Sawant Dessai, Professor and Officiating Principal. Dr. Sanjay stressed on the significance of maintaining healthy and positive relationships among colleagues. He shared best practices for effective communication, conflict resolution, and fostering a supportive work culture. The emphasis was on building a collaborative and harmonious workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

Ms. Lizette D’Costa, Assistant Professor in Economics & Banking and member of Faculty Development and Recreation Cells, informed the teachers that the essence of the event was to introduce faculty members to one another and promote a sense of community and collaboration within the institution. Ms. Lizette provided an insightful overview of the institution, detailing its mission, vision, and core values. She highlighted the organizational structure and the various departments, ensuring that all faculty members gained a comprehensive understanding of how the institution operates. Emphasizing the importance of professionalism, Ms. Lizette outlined the institution’s dress code policy for teachers. She shared guidelines on appropriate attire, underscoring how dressing professionally contributes to creating a respectful and conducive learning environment.

The programme concluded with an interactive game in which faculty members introduced themselves to one another and shared their thoughts. Prof. Subrahmanya Bhat delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude and appreciation to the organizers for their efforts in making the event a success. The programme concluded at 1:30 p.m., with a total of 49 teachers in attendance.

Pre-Yachting Regatta Camp Phase-I

3 Kar Naval Unit NCC organized a Pre-Yachting Regatta Camp Phase-I at the Royal Mysore Sailing Club, Krishnarajasagara from 22nd to 31th July 2024. The primary aim of the Yachting Regatta Camp Phase-I was to provide cadets with essential sailing knowledge and skills.

At the onset of the camp the cadets underwent a swimming test where they had to swim for 50 meters. The cadets acquired the various techniques of sailing, gained practical knowledge, besides being part of various sailing competitions. A total of six naval units participated, with 36 cadets (18 SDs and 18 SWs) from 1 Goa Naval Unit, 1 Kar Naval Unit (Bangalore), 3 Kar Naval Unit (Mysore), 5 Kar Naval Unit (Mangalore), 6 Kar Naval Unit (Udupi) and 8 Kar Naval Unit (Karwar).

The main activity of the camp was learning to sail an Enterprise class DK whaler. Cadets learned essential skills such as rigging the dinghy, pitching tents, taking off the boat, recovering it if it capsized, and rescuing the boat.

1 Goa Naval Unit emerged as the winner of the racing competition, securing the gold medal. From our institution, PO Cadet Omkar Verlekar attended the camp and played a key role as the helm in the racing.

The Yachting Regatta Camp Phase-I was a successful event that provided cadets with valuable sailing experience and built their confidence. The camp fostered a spirit of teamwork and competition among the participating naval units, contributing to the overall development of the cadets.