My Unforgettable Day at IRCITE 2026: Lost on Campus, Found in Knowledge (and Laughter)

March 19, 2026 started way before the sun was fully up. My group and I left early, hearts pounding with a mix of excitement and nerves. We were heading to IRCITE 2026 — the International Research Conference on Information Technology Education organized by PSITE Central Luzon at Bulacan State University in Malolos City. The theme “Ideation, Utilization, and Adoption: Strengthening the Research-to-Practice Cycle in Education” felt perfect for us because we were about to present our own research paper. Little did I know this day would be filled with getting lost, discovering hidden gems, feeling proud of my groupmate, learning life-changing lessons about AI, and laughing until my cheeks hurt.

When we finally reached Bulacan State University, I was speechless. The campus is massive — like a small city! Wide open spaces, tall buildings everywhere, and pathways that seemed to go on forever. Without clear signs or a map, I got lost twice just trying to find Valencia Hall. But every wrong turn led me to something amazing. My absolute favorite discovery? The university’s e-library. It felt like stepping into a tech-lover’s paradise. There was a fully equipped AVP room, endless shelves of books on IT, education, and research, rows of high-spec computers, and even a peaceful resting area where you could actually relax if your feet were killing you. I spent every break there — recharging, browsing digital journals, and thinking, “I wish my school had something like this!”

Inside Valencia Hall, the energy was electric. The hall was packed with students and faculty from different schools across Central Luzon. Our presentation slot came faster than I expected. I wasn’t the one presenting, but my stomach was in knots for my groupmate. He delivered our research paper so confidently — clear voice, well-organized slides, and every point explained perfectly. The panelists nodded along and only asked a few smart questions. He answered each one calmly and intelligently. Around us, other students from various universities presented their own research, and every single one was impressive. The preparation level was on another level.

I missed a few morning sessions because of our slot, but I made sure to catch the plenary that completely changed how I see the future: Dr. Ace C. Lagman’s talk “Demystifying the AI World.” He looked straight at all of us and said something I will never forget: “AI can’t take your job if you know how to use AI.” He explained that AI is one of the most powerful tools ever created — but the key is balance. Don’t rely on it blindly. Use it to enhance your skills, not replace your thinking. That single sentence shifted something inside me.

After the serious talks came the fun that made the whole conference unforgettable. The cosplay competition had the entire hall roaring with laughter. My favorite was the guy who dressed as Po the Dragon Warrior from Kung Fu Panda — he nailed the moves, the voice, and even the belly! I was laughing so hard I almost cried. Then, during the closing performances, my own professor suddenly jumped on stage and did the most dramatic “surfer dive” across the floor, pretending to ride imaginary waves. The crowd went wild!

By the time the awarding ceremony finished, and we headed home with our certificates, I felt different. I had walked into the campus feeling nervous and a little lost. I left feeling inspired, more confident, and ready to use everything I learned. IRCITE 2026 wasn’t just another conference. It was a day of getting lost on campus… and finding direction for my future in IT.

If you ever get the chance to join a PSITE event, go for it. You might get lost for a few minutes, but you’ll leave with knowledge, new friends, and memories that will last forever.

#IRCITE2026 #PSITECentralLuzon #BulacanStateUniversity #AIasTool #ResearchToPractice #CosplayFun #StudentResearch

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