Looking back on the past 13 weeks, it was really amazing how much we were to accomplish within the relatively short time span. I think we have all enjoyed ourselves in the process of picking up useful and effective communication skills, as well as life skills.
To be concise, I will talk about the most important thing that I learnt from this module, that is, to speak effectively in front of an audience.
Prior to this module, I did not have many opportunities to do presentations. Initially, I was slightly daunted by the amount of public speaking that we had to do but I then realized that these experiences were opportunities for me to brush up on my presentation skills. Throughout the course, I put in a substantial amount of effort to make sure my presentation skills were up to mark, be it in the peer teaching, the oral discussion or the oral presentation. Today, I think my presentation skills have improved significantly as compared to three months ago. But this achievement would not have been possible without the comments by Brad, my group members and the rest of the class. To Brad, I really appreciate the detailed comments that you have written in our assessment. To my group members and my classmates, I sincerely thank each and every one of you, for all the comments and encouraging words that you have written in my blog and voiced out during the class. All of these have been instrumental in my pursuit of a better presenter.
Next, with regards to blogging, I think it is imperative for students to constantly practise and hone their writing skills. Unlike speaking, blogging requires one to be more careful with the use of grammar and the choice of words. In addition, I thought it was actually a good platform for me to get to know my classmates better in the first few weeks, especially when we were still a little reserved in class.
Finally, I think we all chose to take this module at the start of the semester because we wanted to improve our communication skills, but I think none of us (at least for me) would have expected to come away with so many friends and so many pleasant memories, on top of learning the syllabus of the course. Once again, I thank Brad and all of you from Group 10 for making my learning experience so enjoyable!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Oral Presentation
For this oral presentation, I have spent a great deal of time preparing and rehearsing my speech. What I did was to internalize the outline of my speech, read the proposal a couple of times, and then it was practice, practice and more practice. I think the more I rehearsed, the more confident I felt, and it made me less nervous today.
Just to refresh everyone's memory, I talked about the 3 unhappy faces versus 1 happy face, the 7:1 ratio and the 3 cases in NTU, Hong Kong and UK.
For my delivery, I think one of my strengths this time round was that I made a point to pause at the right places and emphasize words appropriately. That was something that I did not do in the past. I tried my best to speak as fluently as I could, and to pronounce the words clearly and accurately. However, there were still occasions when my words rolled over themselves, especially when it came to big jargons. So, I still need to improve on that.
With regards to my pace, some people have said I spoke too fast, while others have commented that the speed was okay. So, I need your input, as to how whether my pace was alright or I should have slowed down.
As for nonverbal cues, I realized (after watching the video) that I had lots of gestures this time round. I hope it was not too distracting. Other than that, I think I did well in turning to visual aids effectively, having effective eye contact and a good posture.
Finally, if you have any suggestions for me to improve my presentation skills, please feel free to comment. Thanks in advance!
Just to refresh everyone's memory, I talked about the 3 unhappy faces versus 1 happy face, the 7:1 ratio and the 3 cases in NTU, Hong Kong and UK.
For my delivery, I think one of my strengths this time round was that I made a point to pause at the right places and emphasize words appropriately. That was something that I did not do in the past. I tried my best to speak as fluently as I could, and to pronounce the words clearly and accurately. However, there were still occasions when my words rolled over themselves, especially when it came to big jargons. So, I still need to improve on that.
With regards to my pace, some people have said I spoke too fast, while others have commented that the speed was okay. So, I need your input, as to how whether my pace was alright or I should have slowed down.
As for nonverbal cues, I realized (after watching the video) that I had lots of gestures this time round. I hope it was not too distracting. Other than that, I think I did well in turning to visual aids effectively, having effective eye contact and a good posture.
Finally, if you have any suggestions for me to improve my presentation skills, please feel free to comment. Thanks in advance!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Peer Teaching Feedback
Hi, we are Team 5 - Yong Feng, Elin and Pavi.
We hope you have found the presentation this afternoon entertaining and enriching. We would gladly welcome any feedback you have for the team. Thanks for your attention once again. :)
We hope you have found the presentation this afternoon entertaining and enriching. We would gladly welcome any feedback you have for the team. Thanks for your attention once again. :)
Monday, September 27, 2010
Intercultural Behaviour
This incident took place when I was in Mexico last year. I opted for the host family programme over the hostel accommodation in campus, but unlike most of my peers who had complete families, my 'family' only had a widow and another exchange student from the Dominican Republic.
During my first few meals, I observed that my host mum would set up the dining table and lay the cutlery all by herself. When I offered to help out in the kitchen, she would decline politely. After our meals, I took my initiative to help her stack the dishes and bring them back to the kitchen, but she would take them away and prevent me from doing so.
I was very puzzled at her actions at the time, because I was used to clearing and washing my dishes or cups back in Singapore. But based on my cultural background, my initial assumption was that she was treating me like a guest in her house. So, as a host, she should not let the guest do the chores.
However, this situation continued for another few days. Once, she was not around so I washed my own dishes after my meal. When she found out later, she got slightly furious and reminded me to just leave them in the sink next time.
I was taking a class about the Mexican culture that time, and during one of the lessons, the professor explained that Mexicans had a strong sense of division of labour between men and women. Men were required to work and bring home the bacon, while women were supposed to stay at home and manage the household.
I also brought up this matter to the local students over there, and they explained to me that in some of the more traditional families, they would not even allow boys or men to enter the kitchen. This was because such behaviour was not considered masculine. Interesting to note, all the female Singaporeans said their host families expected them to help out in the kitchen during mealtimes.
During my first few meals, I observed that my host mum would set up the dining table and lay the cutlery all by herself. When I offered to help out in the kitchen, she would decline politely. After our meals, I took my initiative to help her stack the dishes and bring them back to the kitchen, but she would take them away and prevent me from doing so.
I was very puzzled at her actions at the time, because I was used to clearing and washing my dishes or cups back in Singapore. But based on my cultural background, my initial assumption was that she was treating me like a guest in her house. So, as a host, she should not let the guest do the chores.
However, this situation continued for another few days. Once, she was not around so I washed my own dishes after my meal. When she found out later, she got slightly furious and reminded me to just leave them in the sink next time.
I was taking a class about the Mexican culture that time, and during one of the lessons, the professor explained that Mexicans had a strong sense of division of labour between men and women. Men were required to work and bring home the bacon, while women were supposed to stay at home and manage the household.
I also brought up this matter to the local students over there, and they explained to me that in some of the more traditional families, they would not even allow boys or men to enter the kitchen. This was because such behaviour was not considered masculine. Interesting to note, all the female Singaporeans said their host families expected them to help out in the kitchen during mealtimes.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Application Letter
Company: The Royal Bank of Scotland Group (RBS)
Position: Asia Pacific - Global Banking & Markets - Summer Internship Programme - GBM Markets - Singapore - Research & Strategy Analyst
Description of a Research & Strategy Analyst
Research & Strategy provides insights across economics, interest rates, foreign exchange, credit, emerging markets and commodities. If you enjoy intellectually rigorous work, this is an excellent career choice. As a researcher, your insights will not only feed into major financial decisions; they may even shape the opinion of entire markets. You will also develop your communication skills. Whether you’re discussing market developments or explaining a new product, you will over time develop close contact with our clients.
What RBS looks for in a Research & Strategy Analyst
Excellent analytical skills are essential for anyone thinking about a career in Research & Strategy. The ability to communicate your findings clearly and concisely is also key.
Note: This is an online application. The requirements are not explicitly stated on the website, so the best I can get is the job description and what RBS looks for in the applicants.
***
25 August 2010
Tan Yong Feng
[my address]
HP: 9*******
Email: tanyongfeng@ymail.com
The Royal Bank of Scotland Group (RBS)
Singapore Land Tower #08-00
50 Raffles Place
Singapore 048623
Dear Sir/Madam,
RE: Application for Research & Strategy Analyst (Summer Internship Programme)
I am writing in response to the position of a Research & Strategy Analyst for the Summer Internship Programme in 2011. I am a driven and passionate individual with a strong interest in the investment banking and finance industry. RBS’s prestigious track record and excellent business name is highly regarded in the sector and I would be honored to contribute my talents and skills to the successful attainment of the firm’s goals.
I am currently on my penultimate year of my undergraduate studies as a Statistics major in National University of Singapore (NUS). At NUS, I have developed a very unique educational experience which has combined academic studies and character building. Studying statistics has developed my analytical skills through the analysis of samples and data. In addition, the rigorous lab work in statistical modeling and programming lessons have prepared me well for research-based job scopes.
Furthermore, I am part of the executive committee of the Tabletop Gaming Interest Group (TGiG) in NUS. The weekly board gaming sessions have given me the opportunity to improve my communication skills and interact with a diverse group of undergraduates, ranging from locals to foreigners from China, Malaysia and India. I was also in the organizing committee of Gaming Lallapalooza 2009, which was a board gaming competition held in Singapore. Within the short period of time, I was entrusted to various tasks from looking for sponsorships to being one of the judges for the final round.
During the summer of 2009, I went on a 7-week exchange programme in Queretaro, Mexico. I studied in Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM). In addition, I participated in a 2-week China Immersion Programme during the summer of 2010. I believe it is important to step out of my comfort zone and explore the different cultures and lifestyles the world that we live in offers. These programmes have taught me to be independent while living in a foreign country far from my own, to be adaptable in an unfamiliar environment, and to be sensitive to people who are from different cultural backgrounds.
I believe these are portable skills which I can bring to RBS as a Research & Strategy Analyst. Please feel free to contact me at 9******* (HP) should you have any questions. Attached is my resume for your perusal. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Truly yours,
Tan Yong Feng
Position: Asia Pacific - Global Banking & Markets - Summer Internship Programme - GBM Markets - Singapore - Research & Strategy Analyst
Description of a Research & Strategy Analyst
Research & Strategy provides insights across economics, interest rates, foreign exchange, credit, emerging markets and commodities. If you enjoy intellectually rigorous work, this is an excellent career choice. As a researcher, your insights will not only feed into major financial decisions; they may even shape the opinion of entire markets. You will also develop your communication skills. Whether you’re discussing market developments or explaining a new product, you will over time develop close contact with our clients.
What RBS looks for in a Research & Strategy Analyst
Excellent analytical skills are essential for anyone thinking about a career in Research & Strategy. The ability to communicate your findings clearly and concisely is also key.
Note: This is an online application. The requirements are not explicitly stated on the website, so the best I can get is the job description and what RBS looks for in the applicants.
***
25 August 2010
Tan Yong Feng
[my address]
HP: 9*******
Email: tanyongfeng@ymail.com
The Royal Bank of Scotland Group (RBS)
Singapore Land Tower #08-00
50 Raffles Place
Singapore 048623
Dear Sir/Madam,
RE: Application for Research & Strategy Analyst (Summer Internship Programme)
I am writing in response to the position of a Research & Strategy Analyst for the Summer Internship Programme in 2011. I am a driven and passionate individual with a strong interest in the investment banking and finance industry. RBS’s prestigious track record and excellent business name is highly regarded in the sector and I would be honored to contribute my talents and skills to the successful attainment of the firm’s goals.
I am currently on my penultimate year of my undergraduate studies as a Statistics major in National University of Singapore (NUS). At NUS, I have developed a very unique educational experience which has combined academic studies and character building. Studying statistics has developed my analytical skills through the analysis of samples and data. In addition, the rigorous lab work in statistical modeling and programming lessons have prepared me well for research-based job scopes.
Furthermore, I am part of the executive committee of the Tabletop Gaming Interest Group (TGiG) in NUS. The weekly board gaming sessions have given me the opportunity to improve my communication skills and interact with a diverse group of undergraduates, ranging from locals to foreigners from China, Malaysia and India. I was also in the organizing committee of Gaming Lallapalooza 2009, which was a board gaming competition held in Singapore. Within the short period of time, I was entrusted to various tasks from looking for sponsorships to being one of the judges for the final round.
During the summer of 2009, I went on a 7-week exchange programme in Queretaro, Mexico. I studied in Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey (ITESM). In addition, I participated in a 2-week China Immersion Programme during the summer of 2010. I believe it is important to step out of my comfort zone and explore the different cultures and lifestyles the world that we live in offers. These programmes have taught me to be independent while living in a foreign country far from my own, to be adaptable in an unfamiliar environment, and to be sensitive to people who are from different cultural backgrounds.
I believe these are portable skills which I can bring to RBS as a Research & Strategy Analyst. Please feel free to contact me at 9******* (HP) should you have any questions. Attached is my resume for your perusal. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Truly yours,
Tan Yong Feng
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Interpersonal Conflict
My last major conflict happened last year. I applied and was selected for the summer exchange programme in Mexico through the Faculty of Science in NUS.
However, with less than a month to go, there was an outbreak of the H1N1 flu in Mexico. Unsurprisingly, the university placed travel restrictions to Mexico, US and Canada because these three countries had the highest numbers of cases. After a few weeks, the travel restrictions were lifted and the programme was given a go-ahead.
When I informed my parents about it, my mother strongly objected to my decision to participate in the summer programme. Her reason was because she felt that the situation in Mexico had not settled down and was unconvinced about their healthcare facilities.
Adding on to my woes, my father was concerned about my safety after learning about the security issues in Mexico. He wanted to know how I was going to travel to Mexico, how the university staff in Mexico was going to pick me up from the airport, etc. The travel restrictions were only lifted that very day, so all the details were hazy and nothing was finalized. Thus, I was unable to answer my father's questions and that did nothing to reassure him.
At that time, examinations were still ongoing and I already had enough to deal with. Somehow, I lost my temper and said that I was going to Mexico and no one was going to stop me. I said I was old enough to take care of myself and they should stop treating me like a child.
I had consulted my parents before applying to this programme, and they had no objections, so their paranoia with the H1N1 flu befuddled me. To me, it was an once-in-a-lifetime experience and I was determined not to let the opportunity slip.
So the question is, if you were in my shoes, what would you have done to allay your parents' worries without backing out from the programme in Mexico?
P.S. Apologies for going over the 250-word limit. I have tried my best to keep it concise, but it was important to be complete in the description as well. Eventually, I resolved the conflict and managed to go to Mexico. Before I share my solution, I'm curious to see what my classmates have to offer.
However, with less than a month to go, there was an outbreak of the H1N1 flu in Mexico. Unsurprisingly, the university placed travel restrictions to Mexico, US and Canada because these three countries had the highest numbers of cases. After a few weeks, the travel restrictions were lifted and the programme was given a go-ahead.
When I informed my parents about it, my mother strongly objected to my decision to participate in the summer programme. Her reason was because she felt that the situation in Mexico had not settled down and was unconvinced about their healthcare facilities.
Adding on to my woes, my father was concerned about my safety after learning about the security issues in Mexico. He wanted to know how I was going to travel to Mexico, how the university staff in Mexico was going to pick me up from the airport, etc. The travel restrictions were only lifted that very day, so all the details were hazy and nothing was finalized. Thus, I was unable to answer my father's questions and that did nothing to reassure him.
At that time, examinations were still ongoing and I already had enough to deal with. Somehow, I lost my temper and said that I was going to Mexico and no one was going to stop me. I said I was old enough to take care of myself and they should stop treating me like a child.
I had consulted my parents before applying to this programme, and they had no objections, so their paranoia with the H1N1 flu befuddled me. To me, it was an once-in-a-lifetime experience and I was determined not to let the opportunity slip.
So the question is, if you were in my shoes, what would you have done to allay your parents' worries without backing out from the programme in Mexico?
P.S. Apologies for going over the 250-word limit. I have tried my best to keep it concise, but it was important to be complete in the description as well. Eventually, I resolved the conflict and managed to go to Mexico. Before I share my solution, I'm curious to see what my classmates have to offer.
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