WITHIN THE GROUNDS of San Beda University (SBU) lies a mainspring of knowledge where educators, students, and administrators work together to foster a community marked by a dedication to work, transparency in communication, and love of God. One of these educators is Assoc. Prof. Larry Ambion, Ph.D., who has been serving SBU for fifteen years and currently presides as a herald of competence accompanied by camaraderie.
In an exclusive interview with Prof. Ambion, let us witness his journey from his fateful beginnings to his responsibility as the Chairperson of the Department of Languages and Literature.
Road to success
Prof. Ambion graduated with a Master’s degree in Arts at the De La Salle University (DLSU) in 2008. Even before Prof. Ambion set his sights on SBU, he was already teaching part-time at a language school in Quezon City from 2004 to 2008 after the completion of his graduate degree. His employer immediately hired him upon completing his On-the-Job Training (OJT). But his fateful journey in SBU began when he was contacted by his former workmate, Prof. Lui Macapagal’s wife, who had informed him that the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) was hiring English teachers.
He began working in the English Department in November 2008. “When I applied as an English professor at SBU, I received offers too, to teach at a university on Taft Avenue and one in Katipunan. But I chose SBU at the time,” said Prof. Ambion.
The enrichment of learning
Throughout Prof. Ambion’s teaching career at SBU, he considered the ability to “impart his knowledge in English and Literature to thousands of students” as the rewarding part of his career. “My training and interactions with them have shaped my approach to communication and information sharing in ways that are consistent with many principles of good teaching and office management,” he said.
Prof. Ambion also added that, while he “does not have conventional approaches” to teaching, it also means that he is very “adaptable” as he takes every opportunity to learn. Thus, he views teaching as not only a way to bolster his students’ knowledge, but also a cycle of self-improvement in his fields of study.
But his role as a mentor does not end there. He has also written and published several papers and creative books. One of these works, entitled “Fusion: Papers on Language and Literature” is a compilation of various research papers to guide students on topics such as speech, articulations, and phonetics, to which he was able to present this work internationally. Additionally, he presented his work at the Research Summit alongside his co-authors for four years in a row.
Prof. Ambion’s commitment to his work is admirable. “One of the best parts for me is that, for fifteen years, I have always been the ‘earliest bird.’ Since 2008, I have managed to arrive at school before 5:30 a.m. consistently,” he said. Through his dedication to his craft, he set up for success that followed his years of being a mentor.
Additionally, Prof. Ambion’s friendly disposition has made him very approachable toward his fellow faculty members and students. He considers himself as the “friendliest.” He also shared, “Modesty aside, I have been holding the title of “Spirit of the Carnival Kween.”
Beyond the classroom walls
His responsibilities include the role in the Office of Linkages and International Affairs (LIA), wherein “he was the associate for international research” for three years.” I was able to work with my dear mentor and second Mom, Doc Tita Evasco-Branzuela,” he stated.
Prof. Ambion also shared that he was one of the Editors-in-Chief of The Bedan Today, the official publication of SBU under the Rector-President, which he had served from 2016 to 2019. This emphasized his mastery over writing, and taking on an organizational role in the publication made him better equipped for future managerial positions.
Problem-solving through adaptability
In 2020, he was appointed as the Department Chair of Languages and Literature by the Dean and Vice Dean of the CAS to whom he extends his gratitude. Taking on the position, Prof. Ambion confessed to have experienced difficulty “since the pandemic began that same year, and I had to make numerous adjustments not only as a professor but also as the head of the department.” Ultimately, this displays the unwavering resolve he possesses, that despite being faced with unknown and arduous challenges, he was able to overcome them
Among the challenges that Prof. Ambion faced were disagreements with faculty members. “There were some disagreements among faculty members which I find quite challenging to deal with, especially when they involve differing academic views,” he admitted. But despite these issues, he was able to adapt through practicing “engaged listening, maintain open and courteous conversation, and prioritize finding solutions that benefit the entire department.” This served to hone his responsibility as department chair. He learned how to properly delegate tasks, establish clear boundaries between work and professional life, and seek guidance from colleagues and supervisors.
The recurrence of success
Prof. Ambion highlighted the department’s accomplishments through the many alumni and students who have been a huge part of its success. “The department’s greatest achievement may be alumni who are now successful in their respective industries, students who continually contribute creativity and innovation to their work and life,” he said. Furthermore, he also noted the students who have produced exceptional research papers. All of this was done while maintaining the utmost camaraderie among the department’s faculty members, thus promoting a healthy work environment and a competent one. Through the proficiency and work ethic with which he carries himself, Prof. Ambion eventually became the recipient of the prestigious “Distinguished Professorial Chair” award which was awarded by the San Beda College Alumni Foundation, Inc. (SBCAF).
Thus, over the years, Prof. Ambion had achieved great mastery in directing affairs within the classrooms as a professor and Department Chair of Languages and Literature; and in essence, providing the College with a beacon of warmth, astuteness, and reliability that leaves us hopeful for the years to come.
(with Manssel Latonero and Paolo Vital)