My initial thought on ES2007 was that it was a no-brainer (no offence) module. As the semester progressed, it came to my attention that there was plenty of "common" things that I could not do. Common things such as basic letter and CV writing format and good presentation skills. 

There were three presentations during this course where I had the opportunity to hone my presentation skills - improve on my strengths and move away from my weaknesses. The feedbacks after each presentation was extremely useful. All along, I knew i suffered from 'verbal diarrhoea'. After each presentation, I was given feedbacks on areas I am strong at and areas where I am lacking. As mentioned, verbal diarrhoea was something that was inherent. During my final presentation, I had to bear in mind my short-coming and make an extra effort to slow down and pace myself. I have also seen the power of pauses... ... ... Though peer teaching from my friends that were strong in this aspect, I was able to see how silence would be more powerful than constant talking during a presentation. 

                                 

Another aspect of presentation skills that I've developed was the skill to pick up non-verbal signals of my audiences during my presentation. Although there is still a large room for improvement, the skills introduced in this course has helped my actively look out for others' body language. This often neglected aspect of communication is often neglected. Having this skill would help be better communicate with my peers and audience more effectively.

Another basic skill which I took for granted was the writing of letters and CV. This course has highlighted the need for an effective letter and CV. CV and letters will inevitably give one's first impression to those reading them; a incoherent CV or letter will reflect badly on an undergraduate. 

In short, this course has has really highlighted my strengths and weaknesses. It has also showed me some of the skills, previously thought to be common sense, which I am lacking in. I've benefitted greatly from this course. And the friends I've made through this course have made it much more enjoyable!  

Proposal Reflection

I felt that our team had a built a good rapport over this 10 weeks of the semester. Although there may be times where we rushed to meet deadlines for the proposal, being in it together seems to make it easier.

I tend to panic a little when deadlines draw near. But my teammates, Joyce and HarkHui, would always tell me to take a "chill-pill". This form of comfort and assurance definitely helped me realized that panicking would not solve anything, instead, bring my focus back to the project would.

Our mutual support was put to the test when HarkHui was not present on the day of our proposal submission. Instead of feeling frustrated, Joyce and I simply went to print it out on the spot! I applaud this team spirit that we have, instead of pushing blames, we over each others' backs. (HarkHui, Im really not pointing fingers here!  I'm simply amazed at our abilities to keep calm in the face of a storm~)

Pointers that I have learnt and would definitely apply to subsequent projects would be our capacity to empathize with our teammates' situation and support them instead of demanding more.

I would urge you readers to learn to empathize more; be it with your co-wokers, friends or family members. The world would be a better place if you do!

Intercultural Behaviour

Escalator in Taiwan   

Escalator in Singapore

Observe carefully. What is the first thing that stands out to you?

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The side where people stand. In Taiwan, the locals stand to the right while in Singapore, we stand to the left (or at least, most of the time).

The first time I was in Taiwan, I thought to myself:
"These people are so rude. Why on earth are they standing to the right when they're stationary?!". 

Oh how wrong was I! Eventually I came to learn that it is their culture and how it works there. Not only do they have this unspoken "rule", they are constantly obeying it, making travel in Taiwan pretty pleasant. It was so heartening to see such a behaviour that eventually, I follow suite.


Another interesting intercultural behaviour I've come to appreciate is the hierarchical seating arrangement by Japanese (in cars)

In a taxi, or regular car, the best seat (directly behind the driver) is always reserved for the highest-ranking. When a customer is driving, the highest-ranking would be seated alongside the driver to show respect. Most of us would probably be familiar with the latter "rule" but may find the former rather strange. However, observation of such statue is of upmost importance in order to show respect for our fellow counterparts.

In the course of my travels, I've learnt to not judge others' culture based on my own (ethnocentrism), and even adopt some of the more pleasant ones! It is really enlightening and interesting to understand the history from which such cultures arise.

So, next time when you are traveling, instead of passing a judgement, why not keep an eye out for these different cultural behaviours? You'll never know, you can pick up a thing or two.

Peaceful resolution of conflict during a car accident – a seemingly impossible event

     This “conflict” occurred between another driver and myself, approximately one year ago in February 2013; a minor accident with a Volvo car. Any driver would definitely fully empathize with this situation.

     Immediately after the accident, knowing I was at fault. The first thing that came to mind was "@#$%& !!!!". However, I made a conscious effort to tame my emotions and went down with an apologetic vibe. Determined to resolve this conflict, without it escalating and get blown out of proportion, I was fully prepared for any “unreasonable” chiding - taking it all in my stride.

     If I were in his shoes, I would be FUMING!

     But to my most pleasant surprise, he came out looking all calm and composed – a state of nirvana – transcending and worldly suffering. 

Seeing my “P-plate”, he addressed me in the most tranquil tone:

“Its okay - doesn’t seem to be anything serious. Don’t worry about it.”

“You are a first-year driver?”

“This is what we will do…”

…

     I was pretty certain that he was raging, as you would expect too. But I was utterly impressed with his ability to regulate his own anger, at the same time empathize with my very first accident. The sole reason why this conflict was resolved so successfully, in my opinion, was the ability for the other party to empathize with me. 

     Given similar circumstances, what would your reaction be if you were the victimized Volvo driver; will you be able to exercise such GREAT self-control?