I always thought that working life will be easier, compared to studying.
I am absolutely wrong. As my mindset was to win, totally devote myself to strive to my best ability. I fallen into hell till the point that I wasn't even able to rest properly. Even I had a night rest, i would wake up in the morning feeling as if i had never slept. Things that i need to follow up and do was stirring up my mind. Besides that, I was actually working everyday, coaching over the weekends. I began to treasure time, especially I was supporting SYM over the last 3 weekend. Last week was so bad that I couldn't attend any meetings.
This week was alot better, I began to let go of things and just leave them in office once i left. Really happy that I have overcome this obstacles, with the help of a great dialogue with Vic.
Will continue to do my best, win over obstacles. Also be able to attend more meetings.
Also looking forward to have great dialogues. (I maybe forgiving but pls dont take it for granted.)
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Qns for myself.
I spent a lot of my time writing them, I reckon that I should just share with my friends.
Q1) Experiences that have shaped your decision in choosing your functional preference.
Technology, and in particular, the Internet Revolution, has brought about various advantages to the way we live our lives. However, in the 1990s, many companies, in their attempt to maintain competitiveness, employed the use of Information Systems in their pursuit of technology. Many of them had to change the way businesses were done in order to accommodate the fit of the various information systems.
In the 21st Century, the focus has once again shifted back to the businesses and people, and the utilization of IT is now seen as a strategy to give the company its competitive advantage. The continued focus and importance of the relationship between technology and business directions and the drive to bridge this gap despite the constant evolution of technology influenced me to take up a diploma in Business & Information Technology.
During the course of my study for my Diploma, the knowledge that I had gained spurred me on to pursue a higher education in my current course of studies, which is focused on identifying and understanding of various technologies; and more importantly how to compete more effectively and efficiently with the use of technology. I have learnt about the use of the ERP system which effectively reduced cost and helped companies to better manage their resources; and CRM systems that are used in the service industry to better cater to customers’ needs.
In addition, I have personally witnessed the effects of new emerging technology such as social networking sites that has brought about a new spectrum of connectivity. All these have left a deep imprint in me on the interconnectivity between technology and our daily lives, and the ability of technology to improve the quality of the way we do things.
Supply chain is a complex area and is no doubt a challenging aspect as well. During my internship with Huntsman Singapore, I was shown the complexity of managing petrochemicals supply chain. It was definitely an eye opener and generated a keen interest in me due to my analytical nature. I was also involved in the International Leadership Program where divisional managers from Asia Pacific formed teams to strategize and tackle emerging business issues and SCM is a major topic of discussion.
Thus, if given this opportunity, I have the utmost belief that I will be able to provide valuable contribution to the corporation especially in my chosen functional preferences.
Q2) What is my proudest achievement and why?
My proudest achievement was emerging triumphant despite the various obstacles during my journey to being commissioned as an officer during my National Service (NS). It was an opportunity for me to play a leading role in defending my country and this also signified the great responsibility that was entrusted upon me as a citizen. The officer corps represents an elite group due to the stringent selection criteria as well as the mentally and physically strenuous training one had to go through for 42 weeks in order to become a commissioned officer. During my journey I faced several obstacles which, despite being a struggle at times, spurred me to overcome them and which eventually became a stepping stone for me to become an officer.
My first obstacle was a mild pneumonia that I came down with during my basic military training. This illness resulted in me being hospitalized for 2 days and subsequently, on medical leave for two weeks. As a result, my training and fitness level was severely affected. However, I had managed to recover in time for the situation test, which was one of the major assessments in the officer cadet selection process. Despite being out of training for a long duration, I was able to prove to my Platoon Commander that I was able to perform well beyond my current ability and successfully avoided a recourse of the basic military training. I believed that another key factor that contributed to the selection in becoming an officer cadet was my strong bonding and teamwork within my platoon. It was through my platoon mates’ help that I was able to cope and perform well during training.
The second obstacle which struck me on the first day after my “Passing Out Parade” as a recruit was a car accident. Although it was not too serious, doctors kept me under observation for a couple of days as they suspected that I had a hairline crack to my upper cervical spine. Consequently, I was given two weeks medical leave and was instructed to avoid physical training for a long while.
Having not suffered from any side effects and despite having one more week of medical leave before I was to engage in physical training, I decided to report to the Officer Cadet School (OCS) on the reporting day. I soon realized that the level of expectation was drastically higher than what I have been used to due to it being a congregation of the best .The learning curve was steeper than anything I had known. Cadets are expected to perform in the harshest environment which can be both physically and mentally draining. Additionally, I was faced with an uphill task of coping with the daily physical training after being absent from training for a prolonged duration. Fortunately, I was able to adapt quickly to the physical and mental demands of the training, and was one of the 43 cadets who were selected for the Air Force from the cohort which comprises of 246 cadets.
Upon being selected for Air Force, it marked the start of the service and professional term where a new series of hurdles and challenges were presented to me. However, Air Force cadets being a small cohort, we showed strong camaraderie and teamwork to help one another to overcome these hurdles and challenges. One of the instances was a collective goal for everyone to achieve gold award for the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) though I only managed the silver award due to an injury. Even till my last attempt to strive for the gold award, my entire course showed their support by participating in every test that those of us who have not yet achieved the gold award went for. This instance of solidarity was one of many as we fought through various challenges during the 36 weeks as a team. However, in the quest of becoming a commissioned officer, battling through all the ups and downs during the 42 weeks with strong camaraderie with the nation’s elites, has become my proudest achievement.
Q3) What is my major disappointment and why?
My major disappointment was my failure to enroll into the course, Diploma in Information Technology (DIT), which I had strong interest in. As IT courses in Polytechnics are highly sought after by students, therefore the cut-off points are high and there was stiff competition for the limited places. In addition, my GCE ‘O’ Level results was below my expectations. Due to heavy commitment with my extra curriculum activities as well as being a member of the National Water Polo Youth Team, I struggled to manage the time spent between my studies, activities and trainings. Although I suspended these activities after my preliminary examinations results did not meet my target, and even though my ‘O’ Level results had improved since; it was still a distance from my aim. This disappointment was further magnified with my failure to enroll into DIT which I had strong interest in. Although I was unable to pursue the course I wanted, I was offered a place for engineering. Through my family’s support and encouragement for me to pursue my interest, I turned down the offer and decided to redo my ‘O’ Levels as a private candidate in an attempt to improve my aggregate score in order to enroll into the course that I desired. It was a tough decision for me to make as this would also mean that I would be lagging one year behind my peers. Also, it would mean that I had fallen short of expectations of a student leader, who was often looked up by peers and who had represented my school on numerous occasions and had received many awards - to someone who had to redo his ‘O’ Levels. This was a major setback for me.
During that one year of self-studying, I worked as a life guard and swimming instructor. It was also during this time that I realized the importance of education after stepping into the working world. During my school days, I had somewhat understood the importance of studying, however, it is through experiencing the realities of working that made me realize that I actually had the potential to achieve more in life. As a lifeguard and swimming coach, I had the chance to converse with people from different walks of life and gradually formed a broader view about my future. Also due to the nature of my work, I had time to reflect on myself and think about my future. This has spurred me to strive harder in the pursuit for higher education.
With my improved results from my second ‘O’ Levels sitting, I was accepted the course of my choice, Diploma in Business & Information Technology which allowed me to understand the best of both worlds. After being given a chance to receive higher education and a better understanding of myself, I was able to excel in my interest, both in academics and extra-curriculum activities. With that, I was able to earn a place in the top local university, National University of Singapore where I am currently pursuing a Degree in Computing (Hons) in Electronic Commerce.
Q4) My most significant leadership experience.
During my National Service, I was involved in a major operation for Asia Aerospace (AA). Then, I was in charge of the vehicle allocation and movement for my entire division. This required me to oversee the co-ordination of vehicles and transportation of supplies such as rations, equipment and water to various locations.
AA is a major national event where the entire nation’s defence force is put to the test for the two week-long operation. It was a complex project and required immense coordination and cooperation from people of different vocations and playing different roles to ensure the success of this operation.
Prior to the operation, long meetings were conducted and I had to fully understand the workings of the entire operation and had to advise various commanders on the utilizing of the resources as they were limited. With the information gathered, I devised the vehicle movement and personal plan and briefed my superiors and colleagues. I also took extra effort to communicate and work with my fellow colleagues and subordinates to ensure everyone is aligned and fully understand their role. In addition, I went to the ground personally to participate in the checks to ensure that vehicles are prepared according the operation requirements. In the mist of the operation, there were various difficulties that we had to overcome, such as the breakdown of vehicles, the lack of trained manpower and replacement at times when servicemen falls sick, etc. Despite the ad-hoc notice, my team was able to rise to the occasion to provide remedy. I am very happy and proud that our efforts paid off as the entire operation was a major success. The success was made possible by the high level of commitment and the professionalism showed by my servicemen, colleagues and superiors. In addition, I am extremely proud that my efforts made during my course of duties were recognized and were commended by my Division Commander during the post-operations review.
Those were the days...
Q1) Experiences that have shaped your decision in choosing your functional preference.
Technology, and in particular, the Internet Revolution, has brought about various advantages to the way we live our lives. However, in the 1990s, many companies, in their attempt to maintain competitiveness, employed the use of Information Systems in their pursuit of technology. Many of them had to change the way businesses were done in order to accommodate the fit of the various information systems.
In the 21st Century, the focus has once again shifted back to the businesses and people, and the utilization of IT is now seen as a strategy to give the company its competitive advantage. The continued focus and importance of the relationship between technology and business directions and the drive to bridge this gap despite the constant evolution of technology influenced me to take up a diploma in Business & Information Technology.
During the course of my study for my Diploma, the knowledge that I had gained spurred me on to pursue a higher education in my current course of studies, which is focused on identifying and understanding of various technologies; and more importantly how to compete more effectively and efficiently with the use of technology. I have learnt about the use of the ERP system which effectively reduced cost and helped companies to better manage their resources; and CRM systems that are used in the service industry to better cater to customers’ needs.
In addition, I have personally witnessed the effects of new emerging technology such as social networking sites that has brought about a new spectrum of connectivity. All these have left a deep imprint in me on the interconnectivity between technology and our daily lives, and the ability of technology to improve the quality of the way we do things.
Supply chain is a complex area and is no doubt a challenging aspect as well. During my internship with Huntsman Singapore, I was shown the complexity of managing petrochemicals supply chain. It was definitely an eye opener and generated a keen interest in me due to my analytical nature. I was also involved in the International Leadership Program where divisional managers from Asia Pacific formed teams to strategize and tackle emerging business issues and SCM is a major topic of discussion.
Thus, if given this opportunity, I have the utmost belief that I will be able to provide valuable contribution to the corporation especially in my chosen functional preferences.
Q2) What is my proudest achievement and why?
My proudest achievement was emerging triumphant despite the various obstacles during my journey to being commissioned as an officer during my National Service (NS). It was an opportunity for me to play a leading role in defending my country and this also signified the great responsibility that was entrusted upon me as a citizen. The officer corps represents an elite group due to the stringent selection criteria as well as the mentally and physically strenuous training one had to go through for 42 weeks in order to become a commissioned officer. During my journey I faced several obstacles which, despite being a struggle at times, spurred me to overcome them and which eventually became a stepping stone for me to become an officer.
My first obstacle was a mild pneumonia that I came down with during my basic military training. This illness resulted in me being hospitalized for 2 days and subsequently, on medical leave for two weeks. As a result, my training and fitness level was severely affected. However, I had managed to recover in time for the situation test, which was one of the major assessments in the officer cadet selection process. Despite being out of training for a long duration, I was able to prove to my Platoon Commander that I was able to perform well beyond my current ability and successfully avoided a recourse of the basic military training. I believed that another key factor that contributed to the selection in becoming an officer cadet was my strong bonding and teamwork within my platoon. It was through my platoon mates’ help that I was able to cope and perform well during training.
The second obstacle which struck me on the first day after my “Passing Out Parade” as a recruit was a car accident. Although it was not too serious, doctors kept me under observation for a couple of days as they suspected that I had a hairline crack to my upper cervical spine. Consequently, I was given two weeks medical leave and was instructed to avoid physical training for a long while.
Having not suffered from any side effects and despite having one more week of medical leave before I was to engage in physical training, I decided to report to the Officer Cadet School (OCS) on the reporting day. I soon realized that the level of expectation was drastically higher than what I have been used to due to it being a congregation of the best .The learning curve was steeper than anything I had known. Cadets are expected to perform in the harshest environment which can be both physically and mentally draining. Additionally, I was faced with an uphill task of coping with the daily physical training after being absent from training for a prolonged duration. Fortunately, I was able to adapt quickly to the physical and mental demands of the training, and was one of the 43 cadets who were selected for the Air Force from the cohort which comprises of 246 cadets.
Upon being selected for Air Force, it marked the start of the service and professional term where a new series of hurdles and challenges were presented to me. However, Air Force cadets being a small cohort, we showed strong camaraderie and teamwork to help one another to overcome these hurdles and challenges. One of the instances was a collective goal for everyone to achieve gold award for the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) though I only managed the silver award due to an injury. Even till my last attempt to strive for the gold award, my entire course showed their support by participating in every test that those of us who have not yet achieved the gold award went for. This instance of solidarity was one of many as we fought through various challenges during the 36 weeks as a team. However, in the quest of becoming a commissioned officer, battling through all the ups and downs during the 42 weeks with strong camaraderie with the nation’s elites, has become my proudest achievement.
Q3) What is my major disappointment and why?
My major disappointment was my failure to enroll into the course, Diploma in Information Technology (DIT), which I had strong interest in. As IT courses in Polytechnics are highly sought after by students, therefore the cut-off points are high and there was stiff competition for the limited places. In addition, my GCE ‘O’ Level results was below my expectations. Due to heavy commitment with my extra curriculum activities as well as being a member of the National Water Polo Youth Team, I struggled to manage the time spent between my studies, activities and trainings. Although I suspended these activities after my preliminary examinations results did not meet my target, and even though my ‘O’ Level results had improved since; it was still a distance from my aim. This disappointment was further magnified with my failure to enroll into DIT which I had strong interest in. Although I was unable to pursue the course I wanted, I was offered a place for engineering. Through my family’s support and encouragement for me to pursue my interest, I turned down the offer and decided to redo my ‘O’ Levels as a private candidate in an attempt to improve my aggregate score in order to enroll into the course that I desired. It was a tough decision for me to make as this would also mean that I would be lagging one year behind my peers. Also, it would mean that I had fallen short of expectations of a student leader, who was often looked up by peers and who had represented my school on numerous occasions and had received many awards - to someone who had to redo his ‘O’ Levels. This was a major setback for me.
During that one year of self-studying, I worked as a life guard and swimming instructor. It was also during this time that I realized the importance of education after stepping into the working world. During my school days, I had somewhat understood the importance of studying, however, it is through experiencing the realities of working that made me realize that I actually had the potential to achieve more in life. As a lifeguard and swimming coach, I had the chance to converse with people from different walks of life and gradually formed a broader view about my future. Also due to the nature of my work, I had time to reflect on myself and think about my future. This has spurred me to strive harder in the pursuit for higher education.
With my improved results from my second ‘O’ Levels sitting, I was accepted the course of my choice, Diploma in Business & Information Technology which allowed me to understand the best of both worlds. After being given a chance to receive higher education and a better understanding of myself, I was able to excel in my interest, both in academics and extra-curriculum activities. With that, I was able to earn a place in the top local university, National University of Singapore where I am currently pursuing a Degree in Computing (Hons) in Electronic Commerce.
Q4) My most significant leadership experience.
During my National Service, I was involved in a major operation for Asia Aerospace (AA). Then, I was in charge of the vehicle allocation and movement for my entire division. This required me to oversee the co-ordination of vehicles and transportation of supplies such as rations, equipment and water to various locations.
AA is a major national event where the entire nation’s defence force is put to the test for the two week-long operation. It was a complex project and required immense coordination and cooperation from people of different vocations and playing different roles to ensure the success of this operation.
Prior to the operation, long meetings were conducted and I had to fully understand the workings of the entire operation and had to advise various commanders on the utilizing of the resources as they were limited. With the information gathered, I devised the vehicle movement and personal plan and briefed my superiors and colleagues. I also took extra effort to communicate and work with my fellow colleagues and subordinates to ensure everyone is aligned and fully understand their role. In addition, I went to the ground personally to participate in the checks to ensure that vehicles are prepared according the operation requirements. In the mist of the operation, there were various difficulties that we had to overcome, such as the breakdown of vehicles, the lack of trained manpower and replacement at times when servicemen falls sick, etc. Despite the ad-hoc notice, my team was able to rise to the occasion to provide remedy. I am very happy and proud that our efforts paid off as the entire operation was a major success. The success was made possible by the high level of commitment and the professionalism showed by my servicemen, colleagues and superiors. In addition, I am extremely proud that my efforts made during my course of duties were recognized and were commended by my Division Commander during the post-operations review.
Those were the days...
Saturday, January 2, 2010
2009 ended in a flash.
I guess at you gets older, times zoom past like flashes (this statement keeps repeating in different forms over the years, haha).
Summary for 2009.
Happy that 2nd half of 2009 did justice to my efforts. Managed to end my final sem in NUS well with As. More impt there's loves ones and great buddies to share the joy with me.
Had lots of activities and fun in Dec (Bali trip, Xmas party, New Year Party), but happy that vic joined my social circle, enjoyed herself and have a glimpse of my life in greater depth.
Now got to get myself focus in finding the right job, instead of just having fun and being a bum.
Summary for 2009.
Happy that 2nd half of 2009 did justice to my efforts. Managed to end my final sem in NUS well with As. More impt there's loves ones and great buddies to share the joy with me.
Had lots of activities and fun in Dec (Bali trip, Xmas party, New Year Party), but happy that vic joined my social circle, enjoyed herself and have a glimpse of my life in greater depth.
Now got to get myself focus in finding the right job, instead of just having fun and being a bum.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Time files.... 5 more weeks to go.
Its has been a long time since my last entry.
Time is really not in my hands. Since I resolved to spend the remaining of my Uni life fruitfully, I am overwhelm with projects. Haha... What's new? That's Uni life man...
Lots of deadline to meet.
30/10 --> Service Science Assignment.
13/11 --> SCM report
16/11 --> IR website
17/11 --> Service Science Final Paper
Then its exam time.
24/11 --> Supply Chian Management
2/12 --> E-Commerce Technologies
3/12 --> Technology Strategy and Management
That's it... Only left abt 5 more weeks to my enriching Uni life. Looking back, I really learnt a lot, grow a lot and been thro a lot. Comparing now with my poly days, I really think its miles apart. I'm no longer the narrow person who only cares about himself and the dictator of things around him. I always thought that my prayers will never been answered, but I was wrong. Everything has its time and space, my conclusion: Be patient and persevere to the very end.
Really happy with life now, but its only the beginning. Nothing will work without any effort, therefore will be doing my best in it.
Lastly, I really hope I will get into UBS. Following above, I'll be patient and persevere.
Guang, Keep going and growing .... =)
Plus looking forward to celebration on 3rd Dec nite with my friends. + Bali trip with Vicky. Heehee...
Time is really not in my hands. Since I resolved to spend the remaining of my Uni life fruitfully, I am overwhelm with projects. Haha... What's new? That's Uni life man...
Lots of deadline to meet.
30/10 --> Service Science Assignment.
13/11 --> SCM report
16/11 --> IR website
17/11 --> Service Science Final Paper
Then its exam time.
24/11 --> Supply Chian Management
2/12 --> E-Commerce Technologies
3/12 --> Technology Strategy and Management
That's it... Only left abt 5 more weeks to my enriching Uni life. Looking back, I really learnt a lot, grow a lot and been thro a lot. Comparing now with my poly days, I really think its miles apart. I'm no longer the narrow person who only cares about himself and the dictator of things around him. I always thought that my prayers will never been answered, but I was wrong. Everything has its time and space, my conclusion: Be patient and persevere to the very end.
Really happy with life now, but its only the beginning. Nothing will work without any effort, therefore will be doing my best in it.
Lastly, I really hope I will get into UBS. Following above, I'll be patient and persevere.
Guang, Keep going and growing .... =)
Plus looking forward to celebration on 3rd Dec nite with my friends. + Bali trip with Vicky. Heehee...
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
