The Department of Psychology of the Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA) conducted a workplace professionalism session on 17 January 2026, aimed at preparing students and interns for the demands of professional life, reinforcing the department’s commitment to holistic student development beyond the classroom.
The session was led by Mr. Jeremy Lee Dela Cruz, Director of the SLU Human Resource Department, who guided participants through the core principles of professional conduct and workplace etiquette. Emphasizing that professionalism goes beyond simply following rules, he encouraged students to reflect on how they present themselves, communicate with others, and build relationships in professional environments.
Mr. Dela Cruz opened the discussion by outlining the goals of professional conduct in internships: understanding basic workplace standards, practicing professionalism consistently, and recognizing common mistakes often made by newcomers. These objectives framed the session as a learning-oriented space, reminding students that internships are designed to foster growth through everyday experiences.
Throughout the talk, he highlighted how small habits can leave lasting impressions. Practical examples—such as using clear subject lines in emails, dressing appropriately during virtual meetings, and maintaining respectful language when communicating with supervisors—helped students recognize how professionalism is reflected in daily actions. He also reassured participants that mistakes are part of the learning process, stressing the importance of accountability and improvement rather than perfection.
Workplace etiquette, Mr. Dela Cruz explained, shapes how individuals interact within organizations and contributes to trust-building over time. He noted that professionalism is expressed not only through technical competence but also through communication style, body language, and consistency. Proper appearance was likewise discussed as a sign of respect for both the role and the organization, with students advised to seek guidance when unsure about dress expectations.
Punctuality and time management were underscored as markers of reliability and professionalism. Mr. Dela Cruz emphasized that informing supervisors promptly about delays helps preserve trust and demonstrates respect for others’ time. Communication skills were also a central theme, including the value of proofreading messages, practicing active listening, and asking for clarification to avoid misunderstandings.
The session further explored networking and workplace culture, highlighting the importance of respect and gratitude across all levels of an organization. Mr. Dela Cruz shared a Filipino value to illustrate this point: “Kung hindi ka marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan mo, hindi ka makakarating sa paroroonan mo,” reminding students that humility and appreciation strengthen professional relationships.
Issues of boundaries and workplace safety were also addressed, with interns encouraged to trust their instincts, document concerns, and report inappropriate behavior through proper channels. Mr. Dela Cruz cautioned against behaviors that could harm one’s professional reputation, such as gossip, procrastination, excessive phone use during work hours, and mishandling confidential information.
In closing, aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Educaiton) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the session reaffirmed the Department of Psychology’s dedication to preparing students for successful transitions into the workforce. By equipping interns with practical insights into professionalism, the department continues to support the formation of confident, ethical, and competent future professionals—ready to step into opportunities with integrity and purpose. (Article and Photos by the Department of Psychology)
