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!