01/06/2026
Expounder Corporation CEO and Co-Founder, George Martin Ampil III, recently returned to his alma mater, the University of St. La Salle, as a commencement speaker for the 9th Psychology Pinning Ceremony.
Addressing more than a thousand students, parents, faculty, and staff, George shared insights on growth, purpose, and the realities of building a career beyond graduation.
As a Psychology alumnus, he highlighted the value of psychology beyond the academic halls and how it continues to open diverse career paths. Drawing from his journey in HR, recruitment, international work, business development, entrepreneurship, and building Expounder Corporation, he emphasized that a psychology degree provides a strong foundation of skills relevant across industries.
One message stood out:
“Your first plan is rarely your final path.”
He encouraged students to remain open to growth and trust that direction is often discovered through experience rather than having everything figured out at the start.
As an advocate of competence, continuous growth, and mastery, he also shared his perspective on Ikigai.
According to George, the first step toward Ikigai is becoming good, and then great at something.
Many people believe they must first find passion or market demand before starting a career. In reality, passion often follows competence and mastery. The more skilled you become, the more confidence, fulfillment, and enjoyment you gain, much like hobbies people love because they invested time in mastering them.
As mastery develops, so does value. Organizations begin to recognize and reward expertise and impact. Over time, the intersection of skill, contribution, fulfillment, and purpose can lead closer to Ikigai.
“Anything worth doing is worth doing well.”
Competence. Growth. Continuous learning. Mastery.
These are not only foundations for success, but also early steps toward a meaningful life and career.
We extend our gratitude to the USLS College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Psychology, and Psychological Society for the invitation and warm welcome.
Congratulations to all Psychology students on this milestone. We look forward to your journey ahead!
