Final post!

In a blink of an eye, the semester is coming to an end. Looking back at all the activities and assignments we did for ES2007S, I think I have learnt more than what I expected when I bid for this module. I picked ES2007S hoping that I can learn how to write a good resume and I am proud to say I have learnt so much more than expected from Brad such as verbal and non-verbal communication, the 7Cs of writing, active listening, proposal writing, oral presentation and many other important skills such as interviewing, application letter writing etc. I have realized that resume writing is only a small aspect of the job searching process and there are so many areas that we need to improve on.

Initially, I was horrified that we have to blog often as I was apprehensive about posting my thoughts and feelings on a public blog for everyone to see. In addition, I felt that I am quite weak in English and would have difficulties phrasing my sentences. With the help of Geok Ting and my blogging buddy, Zikai, I am more confident of blogging now.

For the project, I learnt how to work in a team and how to communicate effectively with my project mates. Even though there were minor miscommunications, our group always manages to iron out the problems and work hand in hand to get the proposal done. The most interesting part of this project was the interviewing of the managers from the NUS Career Centre. As it was my first attempt at being the interviewer rather than the interviewee, I was nervous. In addition, the manager told us that they were in the process of developing the system that we were proposing. This threw us off guard and we had to come up with questions impromptu. At the beginning of the interview, we felt more like the interviewees. But as the interview progressed, we became more comfortable and they provided many suggestions and advice for both our proposal and our personal future job searches. They were interested in our proposal and requested us for a follow up session. It feels very rewarding that our work is being recognized.

In conclusion, I am glad that I took ES2007S as I have learnt many soft skills which cannot be found in other modules and made so many new friends. :D Last but not the least, thank you Brad, for making ES2007S a fun experience for us. :))

OP reflections

Yay! I’m so relieved that this tough week is over and it is now time to reflect on TinkyWiki’s presentation. When our group was preparing the slides, we were slightly torn between the idea of having a set of professional looking slides and a set of slides with more colours and pictures. Some of us felt that professional looking slides should have a uniform colour theme for the boxes containing each point while some felt that a colourful slide might better capture the audience’s attention. We even consulted Brad and asked him which theme is better. Thinking back, that question seems quite insignificant. Sorry Brad! :p

Sometimes, our group will have slightly different ideas on how we should present an idea but we always managed to compromise and objectively pick the idea that the majority felt was better. I am glad for those different ideas as I felt that our slides were refined after talking through the difficulties. In addition, everyone in the team was very helpful and we aided each other in completing the slides which we are responsible for.

I realized that I was less nervous for this presentation as compared to my peer teaching experience (Xiuling and Rebecca will know how nervous I was). One of the reasons might be the fact that we had more time to practise for the script. For the presentation, Hazel and I decided to bring our cue cards along to boost our confidence level. I feel that I looked down to flip my cards too often as I was scared that if I blanked out and I am not at the correct page, I will have to flip frantically. I should have the confidence to dump those cards!

Another point would be that Hazel and I were whispering to each other while Shin Ye was presenting. I did not realize that we were so distracting until Patrick commented. I have learnt that even though I am not presenting, as long as I am standing in front of the audience I should be aware of myactions as it might divert the attention away from the speaker.

Finally, I would like to thank both Shin Ye and Hazel. We had a lot of fun and laughter during discussions and they have been fabulous team mates. It was a great experience working with them! :D