A young child was trying to sit up on the hand rail outside a supermarket, and the father instantly said "later you fall down then you know."
I was thinking would it have been more useful if the father had taught the child how to sit properly without falling off instead. He won't always be around to make sure that the child doesn't fall all the time, would he?
It's natural that parents want to protect their children from harm, but does this means that the child should not try out and merely follow what the parents say? Thinking back about the kids from Cambodia, they seem much tougher mentally and physically compared to local kids. None will cry even if they had a hard fall, but just laugh it off. Perhaps we need to rethink the way we train the kids here.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
PSK 09 Part 3 - The Paintings
Day 4 - 6:
After the weekend, most of the people have adjusted to the place, and we finally are able to start off our first objective - to repaint the youth centre.
With the help of Sreymom, a staff at the centre, we were able to get all the materials needed for the paintings.
The tough part of the painting was not the painting, but the scrapping of the peeling wall. That part took us half a day, causing 2 cut fingers. Luckily at the end of the first day of painting, we were able to scrap the walls and whitewashing it once. Some of the kids also help up, or they really did most of the work, thanks to them. Goodbye to the existing murals.
I didn't help up much on the second day of painting(day 5) since I was the cook for the day. The dinner soup was a ultra salty ABC soup, which I had to add gallons of water to dilute, thanks to ???. We were able to complete the paintings on schedule by the third day(day 6).
Nice new murals, done by Star.
After the weekend, most of the people have adjusted to the place, and we finally are able to start off our first objective - to repaint the youth centre.
With the help of Sreymom, a staff at the centre, we were able to get all the materials needed for the paintings.
The tough part of the painting was not the painting, but the scrapping of the peeling wall. That part took us half a day, causing 2 cut fingers. Luckily at the end of the first day of painting, we were able to scrap the walls and whitewashing it once. Some of the kids also help up, or they really did most of the work, thanks to them. Goodbye to the existing murals.
I didn't help up much on the second day of painting(day 5) since I was the cook for the day. The dinner soup was a ultra salty ABC soup, which I had to add gallons of water to dilute, thanks to ???. We were able to complete the paintings on schedule by the third day(day 6).
Nice new murals, done by Star.
Monday, December 28, 2009
PSK 09 Part 2 - Familiarity
Day 2:
Narong and Theavy were the first two familiar faces who dropped by. Both have grown, especially Narong, who had really grown taller, and maybe a little bit more mature and his voice has started to break. Apart from that, they were still pretty much the same, coming early in the morning and leaving late in the evening.
After breakfast, the whole team visited the market again so as to fam them with the market area. The rest of the day was mostly spent interacting with the two regulars since not many people have come yet.
Day 3:
Breakfast for today was porridge(soggy rice since it was a bit too dry). Oh well, still bearable to eat. After breakfast, and since it's a Sunday, the youth centre is closed for the day, we're free to go to the market again. A few of the members decided to stay behind after the trauma of the previous market visits =)
Just outside the market, someone suddenly called out to me from behind.
"Chit Chin!!"
I can sense the joy in the voice. It was Nirowat, as most people spell the name that way. It's the hip hop king! He's also grown much taller. After the brief exchange of greetings, we parted and met back at the Youth Centre. He brought along a friend named Chanma too, and Sorlick came too. Sorlick was probably the only one who's not grown taller, lol..
After lunch, I received a shocking news from one of the members. And due to personal issue and choice, she had decided to leave the team and return to Singapore. She was accompanied by two others who brought her Phnom Penh, before taking the flight back to Singapore on the following day.
Prior to her departure, we took a few group photos. We're officially down to sixteen strength.
Narong and Theavy were the first two familiar faces who dropped by. Both have grown, especially Narong, who had really grown taller, and maybe a little bit more mature and his voice has started to break. Apart from that, they were still pretty much the same, coming early in the morning and leaving late in the evening.
After breakfast, the whole team visited the market again so as to fam them with the market area. The rest of the day was mostly spent interacting with the two regulars since not many people have come yet.
Day 3:
Breakfast for today was porridge(soggy rice since it was a bit too dry). Oh well, still bearable to eat. After breakfast, and since it's a Sunday, the youth centre is closed for the day, we're free to go to the market again. A few of the members decided to stay behind after the trauma of the previous market visits =)
Just outside the market, someone suddenly called out to me from behind.
"Chit Chin!!"
I can sense the joy in the voice. It was Nirowat, as most people spell the name that way. It's the hip hop king! He's also grown much taller. After the brief exchange of greetings, we parted and met back at the Youth Centre. He brought along a friend named Chanma too, and Sorlick came too. Sorlick was probably the only one who's not grown taller, lol..
After lunch, I received a shocking news from one of the members. And due to personal issue and choice, she had decided to leave the team and return to Singapore. She was accompanied by two others who brought her Phnom Penh, before taking the flight back to Singapore on the following day.
Prior to her departure, we took a few group photos. We're officially down to sixteen strength.
PSK 09 Part 1 - The return to SKYC
Day -1, 0:
After 4 months of preparations, the team is finally leaving for Cambodia. On 9 Dec, sm, kl, sy, hl, and me met in school to transport our barang barang to the airport, and camped overnight at the airport. The night was long, but luckily we had each others' company.
The flight was at 6am, so during the long interval, we had time to travel to terminal 2 to buy ya kun and mcdonald supper.
We had to transit at Siem Reap Airport which was a bit weird since Phnom Penh was closer to Singapore. Anyway, while boarding the plane after the transit, I saw my sec school music teacher and she was just a seat in front of me. Seemed like she was returning to Singapore from her holidays. How small can the world get?
We reach Phnom Penh at around 8.45am, and went straight to the hotel for a short break. Like last year, the first meal there was KFC. Soon after lunch, we head off to the Central Market, and most people came back with loads of goodies. The team name was unofficially renamed Team "North Face" after more than half the team bought a new Northface bag at the market.
Day 1:
After a good night rest at the hotel, we had breakfast at one of the Chinese Restaurant near the hotel and checked out of the hotel soon after. But before we head to Prey Veng, we had to do more shopping at another market. This time, I bought a Adidas shirt, which was really handy throughout the trip.
I was mostly asleep during the two hour trip to Prey Veng. Upon reaching, we had lunch at another Chinese Restaurant before going to the Youth Centre. When we were finally at the Youth Centre, what I saw wasn't the familiar crowd of kids, but some youths using the new internet services. Not the lively sight I was expecting.
The first day at the youth centre turned out rather uneventful as the team gets settled into the quarters. The first trip to the market actually disgusted some of the people :p, and the first night was filled with some screaming, lol.. Probably just need some getting use to.
After 4 months of preparations, the team is finally leaving for Cambodia. On 9 Dec, sm, kl, sy, hl, and me met in school to transport our barang barang to the airport, and camped overnight at the airport. The night was long, but luckily we had each others' company.
The flight was at 6am, so during the long interval, we had time to travel to terminal 2 to buy ya kun and mcdonald supper.
We had to transit at Siem Reap Airport which was a bit weird since Phnom Penh was closer to Singapore. Anyway, while boarding the plane after the transit, I saw my sec school music teacher and she was just a seat in front of me. Seemed like she was returning to Singapore from her holidays. How small can the world get?
We reach Phnom Penh at around 8.45am, and went straight to the hotel for a short break. Like last year, the first meal there was KFC. Soon after lunch, we head off to the Central Market, and most people came back with loads of goodies. The team name was unofficially renamed Team "North Face" after more than half the team bought a new Northface bag at the market.
Day 1:
After a good night rest at the hotel, we had breakfast at one of the Chinese Restaurant near the hotel and checked out of the hotel soon after. But before we head to Prey Veng, we had to do more shopping at another market. This time, I bought a Adidas shirt, which was really handy throughout the trip.
I was mostly asleep during the two hour trip to Prey Veng. Upon reaching, we had lunch at another Chinese Restaurant before going to the Youth Centre. When we were finally at the Youth Centre, what I saw wasn't the familiar crowd of kids, but some youths using the new internet services. Not the lively sight I was expecting.
The first day at the youth centre turned out rather uneventful as the team gets settled into the quarters. The first trip to the market actually disgusted some of the people :p, and the first night was filled with some screaming, lol.. Probably just need some getting use to.
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Exam 7 finally over
Today is the last day of examination for me, summing up the semester with 2 papers.
The highlight of this semester's examination was my last paper. It's a level 4 CS module and really, ought to be really hard, right? It turned out the module only had 5 sets of lecture notes, and it's grading is 30% project + 70% final exam, with the topics of the 3 exam questions spell out to us in the final lecture.
The paper for the module was even more pro. 9% of the module fell on 2 yes/no questions, 5% on a true/false question, and the rest mostly one-line answers. I almost broke into cold sweat seeing people scribbling in their papers, when I only had around 70 words on the script I had handed in. Hopefully what I wrote made sense. If not, it's another module down the drain.
The highlight of this semester's examination was my last paper. It's a level 4 CS module and really, ought to be really hard, right? It turned out the module only had 5 sets of lecture notes, and it's grading is 30% project + 70% final exam, with the topics of the 3 exam questions spell out to us in the final lecture.
The paper for the module was even more pro. 9% of the module fell on 2 yes/no questions, 5% on a true/false question, and the rest mostly one-line answers. I almost broke into cold sweat seeing people scribbling in their papers, when I only had around 70 words on the script I had handed in. Hopefully what I wrote made sense. If not, it's another module down the drain.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
why I don't belong
Attended a lecture today which was conducted by a guest lecturer. He was monotonous, speak with an accent, an outright boring, at least for me.
During the lecture, he tried to have a little bit of joke, but wow, I couldn't find the funny part, and only me. So this suggest I probably was at the wrong place.. Looking forward to have the regular lecturer back.
During the lecture, he tried to have a little bit of joke, but wow, I couldn't find the funny part, and only me. So this suggest I probably was at the wrong place.. Looking forward to have the regular lecturer back.
Fun-raising
Two weeks of fund raising is finally over and I think that now I will be chased by my project work members from the various modules cause I have been busy with the bazaar and car wash. The two fund-raising activities were the same as last year, but not exactly the same.
Though we sold donuts like last year, we also sold many other things bubble tea and lecture refreshment pack (on e-learning wk?). We had car wash like last year, but we did the washing over 5 mornings, instead of 3 full days.
Now the focus will be on selling t-shirts and I would like to express my gratitude to people who have bought the t-shirts. :D
Though we sold donuts like last year, we also sold many other things bubble tea and lecture refreshment pack (on e-learning wk?). We had car wash like last year, but we did the washing over 5 mornings, instead of 3 full days.
Now the focus will be on selling t-shirts and I would like to express my gratitude to people who have bought the t-shirts. :D
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
The Serial Position Effect
And there's the long queue of people again.. This time round the queue gathered in front of the transitlink office, to replace their old ezylink card with the new cepas card.
During the start of the replacement exercise in January, people also queued for the replacement though there was nine months to do so. Now the end of September, and the last day of free replacement, people once again queue up to change the cards. So where were the crowd during the remaining of the time?!
This phenomena can be explained by the Serial Position Effect. When people are asked to recall a list of words, they tend to recall words from the beginning and end of the list. The findings is illustrated in the graph below:
image taken from wikipedia
People tend to remember words from the front of the list(Primacy Effect) because they have more time to rehearse the words to themselves, allowing the words to go into long-term memory; People tend to remember words towards the end of the list(Recency Effect) because those words are still in the short-term memory. Collectively, the two effects are known as the Serial Position Effect.
How can this explain the queues? People who queued up during the January period are under the Primacy effect; people who queued up today are under the Recency effect. People tend to forget that they can actually exchange the cards during the months from February to August, though there were special booths set up for that purpose.
Conclusion:
It's amazing that people like to queue so much.
During the start of the replacement exercise in January, people also queued for the replacement though there was nine months to do so. Now the end of September, and the last day of free replacement, people once again queue up to change the cards. So where were the crowd during the remaining of the time?!
This phenomena can be explained by the Serial Position Effect. When people are asked to recall a list of words, they tend to recall words from the beginning and end of the list. The findings is illustrated in the graph below:
image taken from wikipedia
People tend to remember words from the front of the list(Primacy Effect) because they have more time to rehearse the words to themselves, allowing the words to go into long-term memory; People tend to remember words towards the end of the list(Recency Effect) because those words are still in the short-term memory. Collectively, the two effects are known as the Serial Position Effect.
How can this explain the queues? People who queued up during the January period are under the Primacy effect; people who queued up today are under the Recency effect. People tend to forget that they can actually exchange the cards during the months from February to August, though there were special booths set up for that purpose.
Conclusion:
It's amazing that people like to queue so much.
Thoughts
For the first time, I invigilated for a mid-term test instead of taking the test. To speak the truth, it's quite boring, lol. But at least I get paid for standing around.
On Monday, I saw a few youths maybe around thirteen seated at a bball court taking puffs of smokes in their school uniform. Clearly, they don't have the age but wander how they got their cigarettes.. It's quite sad to see this happening, but what can I do? Could I have approached them and start preaching to them? Nah, I doubt that will work. Change doesn't come about in a day and certainly doesn't come after preaching by some stranger. I can only hope they find someone who care for them and capable of guiding them soon.
On Monday, I saw a few youths maybe around thirteen seated at a bball court taking puffs of smokes in their school uniform. Clearly, they don't have the age but wander how they got their cigarettes.. It's quite sad to see this happening, but what can I do? Could I have approached them and start preaching to them? Nah, I doubt that will work. Change doesn't come about in a day and certainly doesn't come after preaching by some stranger. I can only hope they find someone who care for them and capable of guiding them soon.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Social Service Agency Visits
Went visiting 2 agencies yesterday and today to Shan You Counselling Centre and Student Care Service Centre. I have to be quite unlucky to get places that are so far from my house, but lucky they were interesting visits.
Before entering Shan You an elderly woman came forth and asked a girl beside me what place is this, showing that people are still generally still unaware of the help that are available?
Of the two places I went, I prefer the latter visit as there was an ice breaker session which helped me to know some other people who also went to the same visit. Think the ice breaker could come in handy for me soon too. :p
If I were to choose to volunteer for either of them, I would choose the latter as well. Cause I prefer to work with youths and children.
Anyway, after the visits, I'm supposed to write a reflection paper to be submitted. Think it's gonna be more difficult than I thought, cause it's not the first time that I had visited these agencies, and the novelty is long gone :'( It's still nice to learn about some of the programs that are ongoing in the centres, and I could join them as a volunteer in future.
After the second visit, I asked Kai and Miz out to lunch at AMK, eating at the food court of AMK hub, getting a not-so-cooked chicken laksa from the stall, condemned that stall.
Miz rushed off to school after lunch, while the remaining stayed behind for a cup of Mc Milkshake. We settled down at an open square to chat and drink the milkshake, when something interesting happened, steps away from us.
A guy grab a girl then I don't know what they do, but seem like they were tussling. After a while, they left. Just when we had finished our milkshake and wanted to leave, we were stopped by someone who said she wanted to interview us. Of course, I pushed Kai to manage her. Initially, he accepted to be interviewed, but when he saw a big camera being taken out, he didn't want to, and push me over, lol..
I didn't want to either. Anyway, the first question was what's the reason that we did not attempt to intervene. My answer would be "Their acting didn't look convincing." That's one reason why I didn't wanna be interviewed.
Before entering Shan You an elderly woman came forth and asked a girl beside me what place is this, showing that people are still generally still unaware of the help that are available?
Of the two places I went, I prefer the latter visit as there was an ice breaker session which helped me to know some other people who also went to the same visit. Think the ice breaker could come in handy for me soon too. :p
If I were to choose to volunteer for either of them, I would choose the latter as well. Cause I prefer to work with youths and children.
Anyway, after the visits, I'm supposed to write a reflection paper to be submitted. Think it's gonna be more difficult than I thought, cause it's not the first time that I had visited these agencies, and the novelty is long gone :'( It's still nice to learn about some of the programs that are ongoing in the centres, and I could join them as a volunteer in future.
After the second visit, I asked Kai and Miz out to lunch at AMK, eating at the food court of AMK hub, getting a not-so-cooked chicken laksa from the stall, condemned that stall.
Miz rushed off to school after lunch, while the remaining stayed behind for a cup of Mc Milkshake. We settled down at an open square to chat and drink the milkshake, when something interesting happened, steps away from us.
A guy grab a girl then I don't know what they do, but seem like they were tussling. After a while, they left. Just when we had finished our milkshake and wanted to leave, we were stopped by someone who said she wanted to interview us. Of course, I pushed Kai to manage her. Initially, he accepted to be interviewed, but when he saw a big camera being taken out, he didn't want to, and push me over, lol..
I didn't want to either. Anyway, the first question was what's the reason that we did not attempt to intervene. My answer would be "Their acting didn't look convincing." That's one reason why I didn't wanna be interviewed.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
eat and eat and eat
The last few days was spent mostly on food. With 5 meals a day, plus going around to buy snacks to bring back to Singapore.
Well, it's still a good break to visit my relatives whom I've not seen for more than 2 years. :p Upon return, it's back to replying so many emails. Hope my students don't submit junk programs, cause I've failed to reply them in time. Good luck to them.
Well, it's still a good break to visit my relatives whom I've not seen for more than 2 years. :p Upon return, it's back to replying so many emails. Hope my students don't submit junk programs, cause I've failed to reply them in time. Good luck to them.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
PSK Interview
About a year ago, I was being interviewed to join Project Sang Khem 08. Even though I felt I had flunked the interview, I was quite happy that I had went for the interview despite the many doubts I have about myself at that point of time.
A year later, I am seated at the other side of the table, interviewing people for team 09, and now I can understand how much effort it takes to schedule interviews. Though I wasn't without error during the process, I tried my best to simplify the signing up process.
During the actual interviewing of people, some people asked what was the yardstick of our interview? A truthful answer for this would be "I don't know.", but I know many people will not take that as an answer, so I'll now try to coin an answer for the question.
A simple answer which I had stood by would be expressed in the equation
Empathy + Sincerity = Persuasion (post)
For starter, you can show empathy by being polite in your email for signing up. Of course, being punctual for your interview is another way.
The sincerity part is a more difficult part to show even though I can basically summarize it as you have to be truthful and show the interviewer the real you.
Hope this information helps.
A year later, I am seated at the other side of the table, interviewing people for team 09, and now I can understand how much effort it takes to schedule interviews. Though I wasn't without error during the process, I tried my best to simplify the signing up process.
During the actual interviewing of people, some people asked what was the yardstick of our interview? A truthful answer for this would be "I don't know.", but I know many people will not take that as an answer, so I'll now try to coin an answer for the question.
A simple answer which I had stood by would be expressed in the equation
Empathy + Sincerity = Persuasion (post)
For starter, you can show empathy by being polite in your email for signing up. Of course, being punctual for your interview is another way.
The sincerity part is a more difficult part to show even though I can basically summarize it as you have to be truthful and show the interviewer the real you.
Hope this information helps.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Rot Remedy
After a perpetual period of rotting, school has finally started again. With a 3-hr lecture from 11am-2pm, I woke up early with all enthusiasm to attend punctually.
Indeed I was early and even found time to print my notes before proceeding to the lecture venue. It was then I found something odd about the seminar room, it was pitch black inside. Not knowing where's everyone, I decided to hang around. After waiting for a while, I finally saw someone coming to check out the room, but walk away after looking at the door. And so, there was a notice on the door, which I had not seen when I was there.. How unobservant..
"Dear Students,
The lecture for CS4211 has been relocated to SOC1/05-46..."
The new location was no where near where I was. In the end, I was late by half hour for class, and the lecturer ended 1.5hr earlier. Should really have stayed home today.
Indeed I was early and even found time to print my notes before proceeding to the lecture venue. It was then I found something odd about the seminar room, it was pitch black inside. Not knowing where's everyone, I decided to hang around. After waiting for a while, I finally saw someone coming to check out the room, but walk away after looking at the door. And so, there was a notice on the door, which I had not seen when I was there.. How unobservant..
"Dear Students,
The lecture for CS4211 has been relocated to SOC1/05-46..."
The new location was no where near where I was. In the end, I was late by half hour for class, and the lecturer ended 1.5hr earlier. Should really have stayed home today.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Run & Hike
After two bogey attempts to go Bt Timah Nature Reserve, I finally found the way there yesterday.
Starting from where I live, I first ran towards my first check point - Bt Batok Nature Park. At the entrance of the park, I was greeted by a dozen of monkeys by the road. I took a short break at the park, before continuing my journey up the hill. After conquering the first hill, I went towards my final destination.
It was just across the road, but I can't find the entrance the last time I came after making a wrong turn. This time however, I made it. It's my first time to the nature reserve, though it's not exactly that far from my house.
After another short break at the foot of the hill, I hiked up the 163.63m landmark. There were at least 2 choices up the hill, via the main route or through the woods along the South View Path, I took the latter.
The walk was somewhat fun, as not many people took that path, so I was able to enjoy some tranquility while walking up the hill.
The final stretch was called the summit path, and was definitely the most tiring part, consisting of maybe a 100 steps up to the summit.
The total distance of the journey according to the distance calculator was about 7.5km. Though it's quite far compared to my normal run, it was more enjoyable as there much more things to see. Probably gonna go again someday to explore the other side of the park, and maybe if I buy a bicycle, I'll try out the mountain bike trail, looks really cool and slightly dangerous.
image generated using google maps distance calculator
Starting from where I live, I first ran towards my first check point - Bt Batok Nature Park. At the entrance of the park, I was greeted by a dozen of monkeys by the road. I took a short break at the park, before continuing my journey up the hill. After conquering the first hill, I went towards my final destination.
It was just across the road, but I can't find the entrance the last time I came after making a wrong turn. This time however, I made it. It's my first time to the nature reserve, though it's not exactly that far from my house.
After another short break at the foot of the hill, I hiked up the 163.63m landmark. There were at least 2 choices up the hill, via the main route or through the woods along the South View Path, I took the latter.
The walk was somewhat fun, as not many people took that path, so I was able to enjoy some tranquility while walking up the hill.
The final stretch was called the summit path, and was definitely the most tiring part, consisting of maybe a 100 steps up to the summit.
The total distance of the journey according to the distance calculator was about 7.5km. Though it's quite far compared to my normal run, it was more enjoyable as there much more things to see. Probably gonna go again someday to explore the other side of the park, and maybe if I buy a bicycle, I'll try out the mountain bike trail, looks really cool and slightly dangerous.
image generated using google maps distance calculator
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Leadership Workshop day 4
The final day started with the heavy downpour at dawn which woke me up from my sleep and half drenched me.
Breakfast was instant noodles :( and bread.
After breakfast, we did a summary for the previous day followed by the presentation of the proposal for the project that we had come up with. The proposal was subsequently accepted.
Lunch follows, with the choices of instant noodles and leftover biscuits and bread. After which, I managed to take a picture of a crime scene. Apparently, KL in a frenzy, shot almost everyone in the group.
That explains why when he went down later on, everyone else kept themselves busy by scribbling away, not intending of helping him out.
The last part of the workshop was a re-enactment of an emergency situation that could happen during the trip. By popular demand, I was elected the casualty and the trainer smeared ketchup over my forehead and thigh. This basically meant that I need not do anything for this lesson. During the debrief, I still smell of ketchup, delicious..
Just before leaving the house, we toasted to the completion of the workshop.
Breakfast was instant noodles :( and bread.
After breakfast, we did a summary for the previous day followed by the presentation of the proposal for the project that we had come up with. The proposal was subsequently accepted.
Lunch follows, with the choices of instant noodles and leftover biscuits and bread. After which, I managed to take a picture of a crime scene. Apparently, KL in a frenzy, shot almost everyone in the group.
That explains why when he went down later on, everyone else kept themselves busy by scribbling away, not intending of helping him out.
The last part of the workshop was a re-enactment of an emergency situation that could happen during the trip. By popular demand, I was elected the casualty and the trainer smeared ketchup over my forehead and thigh. This basically meant that I need not do anything for this lesson. During the debrief, I still smell of ketchup, delicious..
Just before leaving the house, we toasted to the completion of the workshop.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Leadership Workshop day 3
It's time for the field component of the workshop. We were supposed to meet at Changi Point ferry terminal at 10am, but I reached ahead of time at 9.10am. After packing lunch when it's almost 10, we set off on the short ferry ride to Pulau Ubin.
Upon arrival, we took the van to the house where we will be staying for the next 2 days. I weren't really shocked by the state of the house since it was somewhat like Sang Khem Youth Centre, except slightly worse.
The first activity for the day was the recce around the island for the group members to design a meaningful YEP if our destination was to be Ubin. After the recce, we returned to the house for our packed lunch. Auntie's dog sure had a filling lunch like us.
After lunch, we had a few theory-based lessons, including duty of care that leaders need to exbihit, understanding reciprocity in culture and risk assessment.
Getting blessed by the village head
After the lessons, we went to Chek Jawa for our "R&R". Even though it's called R&R, it's still part of our lessons as we had to adhere to the rules we set during risk assessment. This is the third time I went to Chek Jawa, and the fastest I had completed the board walk.
Dinner time follows and it's instant cup noodles. We had our meals over TV, watching harry potter and the chamber of secret. Before we could finish the show, we had to go for the last module of the day, life journey, facilitated by me!
This was quite a tricky module, and since we only know each other for 3 days, it does make it even more difficult. After I had a nervy start, passing down instructions, my partner Stella set the ground rules and we're off for our 20mins time-out.
I started the sharing, and went in a round-robin as each of us shared something significant in our lives. It really wasn't easy leading the discussion, but at least, everyone was very cooperative. Not sure what'll happen in my own team.
After our lessons have officially ended for the day, we still had another discussion for the project in ubin that we had to design to be presented the next day.
After supper and a bit of talk-cock, I went to sleeping bag at around 1am. :p
Upon arrival, we took the van to the house where we will be staying for the next 2 days. I weren't really shocked by the state of the house since it was somewhat like Sang Khem Youth Centre, except slightly worse.
The first activity for the day was the recce around the island for the group members to design a meaningful YEP if our destination was to be Ubin. After the recce, we returned to the house for our packed lunch. Auntie's dog sure had a filling lunch like us.
After lunch, we had a few theory-based lessons, including duty of care that leaders need to exbihit, understanding reciprocity in culture and risk assessment.
Getting blessed by the village head
After the lessons, we went to Chek Jawa for our "R&R". Even though it's called R&R, it's still part of our lessons as we had to adhere to the rules we set during risk assessment. This is the third time I went to Chek Jawa, and the fastest I had completed the board walk.
Dinner time follows and it's instant cup noodles. We had our meals over TV, watching harry potter and the chamber of secret. Before we could finish the show, we had to go for the last module of the day, life journey, facilitated by me!
This was quite a tricky module, and since we only know each other for 3 days, it does make it even more difficult. After I had a nervy start, passing down instructions, my partner Stella set the ground rules and we're off for our 20mins time-out.
I started the sharing, and went in a round-robin as each of us shared something significant in our lives. It really wasn't easy leading the discussion, but at least, everyone was very cooperative. Not sure what'll happen in my own team.
After our lessons have officially ended for the day, we still had another discussion for the project in ubin that we had to design to be presented the next day.
After supper and a bit of talk-cock, I went to sleeping bag at around 1am. :p
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Leadership Workshop day 2
With the ground rule set at being punctual and if you break it, you will have to serve coffee to the class, I managed to reach a good half minute prior to start of workshop. However, it was delayed slightly due to technical problem.
I was then handed the ultimate sk that I will have to conduct one of the lessons which I think is probably the most difficult during this weekend's stay at Ubin.
Anyway, the lessons were like the first day except that mostly the trainer just sit by and observe while selected participants were asked to conduct.
So now, all that is left of the workshop is the Ubin part where we will likely be simulating the expedition itself.
I was then handed the ultimate sk that I will have to conduct one of the lessons which I think is probably the most difficult during this weekend's stay at Ubin.
Anyway, the lessons were like the first day except that mostly the trainer just sit by and observe while selected participants were asked to conduct.
So now, all that is left of the workshop is the Ubin part where we will likely be simulating the expedition itself.
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Leadership Workshop day 1
It's the first day of the four-day course to begin my next YEP. It was quite paiseh for me as I was late on the day. Luckily, I weren't the latest with another girl stepping in about 2 seconds after me.
After a bit of settling down, I looked around at the other participants and realized a familiar face belonging to my classmate from secondary school. He's leading a team to India I think. How nice to meet up this way.
For the course, the first two days are theory based with lessons conducted at SMU, and we've covered six modules today, though I shan't list them out.
At the end of the day, we had to choose a leader for next week's Project Ubin, and I volunteered for day 1 of that trip as it seems like it's more like a logistics leader. Hope I'm right.
After a bit of settling down, I looked around at the other participants and realized a familiar face belonging to my classmate from secondary school. He's leading a team to India I think. How nice to meet up this way.
For the course, the first two days are theory based with lessons conducted at SMU, and we've covered six modules today, though I shan't list them out.
At the end of the day, we had to choose a leader for next week's Project Ubin, and I volunteered for day 1 of that trip as it seems like it's more like a logistics leader. Hope I'm right.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Library tour
After searching 3 libraries in the past week, I've finally borrowed the book I wanted. But now, after maxing my borrowing quota, I'm quite backward in my readings again.. Even the free extension might not be enough for me to finish reading all the books.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Trip to Ulu-ululand day 2
Everyone woke up at 6.30am on the second day and breakfast at 7am. After breakfast, it's off to the high element course. Of course, safety brief was conducted before that to the kids and volunteers helped out in gearing the kids for the course.
At the course, I helped out at the abseiling station, making sure the kids have all the required equipment before allowing them up the platform. It's quite funny helping them wear the gloves, as the gloves are so big that I can't feel some of their fingers after putting them on.
The volunteers had their chance at a higher course after the kids were done with their activities.
Lunch was outdoor cooking, which include army delicacies like sardine, baked beans, sausages and maggi! Thankfully, those food were for the kids only. After that, the kids went off to the milo pond for dessert while the volunteers had chicken rice for lunch. I never take any photo there as it was advisable to stay away unless you want milo for dessert as well.
At about 4pm, the kids washed themselves up and were back at the MPH and had some simple games while waiting for the bus to come. And at 6pm, we were all finally on our way home from this very fun camp.
At the course, I helped out at the abseiling station, making sure the kids have all the required equipment before allowing them up the platform. It's quite funny helping them wear the gloves, as the gloves are so big that I can't feel some of their fingers after putting them on.
The volunteers had their chance at a higher course after the kids were done with their activities.
Lunch was outdoor cooking, which include army delicacies like sardine, baked beans, sausages and maggi! Thankfully, those food were for the kids only. After that, the kids went off to the milo pond for dessert while the volunteers had chicken rice for lunch. I never take any photo there as it was advisable to stay away unless you want milo for dessert as well.
At about 4pm, the kids washed themselves up and were back at the MPH and had some simple games while waiting for the bus to come. And at 6pm, we were all finally on our way home from this very fun camp.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Trip to Ulu-ululand day 1
I spent the last two days with this batch of kids, and a group of volunteers on an even ulu-er place than the armour centre that I frequent five years ago. But it was something I was really excited about since the Cambodia trip 6 months ago. Maybe because it's the holidays, and I've not planned any activity at all.
We were early at the camp, and had to wait a while before the kids reached the campsite. When they finally arrived, they were first split into 2 groups. (p.s. pictures don't do justice to how "well" they behaved)
The first activity was to bring the kids to fam the ground and the trainers brought us out on a treasure hunt to search for materials to make the group flag. With the gathered materials, it's time to get started getting their hands dirty.
Afternoon was team-building games and supposedly, there should have a gulp of nice milo dinosaur, but was postponed due to CAT1. Luckily, after dinner, the weather was good for the campfire.
Both teams had a performance, and towards the end, the trainers wanted to sabo somefour volunteers by getting them wet, lucky for me, I was convinced that I should be a spectator for that performance.
Afterward, it's bed sweet bed for us after supper and bath. However it's dream on if you think it's really sweet, cause volunteers are sleeping with the kids, muahaha...
More photos shall be posted on facebook..
We were early at the camp, and had to wait a while before the kids reached the campsite. When they finally arrived, they were first split into 2 groups. (p.s. pictures don't do justice to how "well" they behaved)
The first activity was to bring the kids to fam the ground and the trainers brought us out on a treasure hunt to search for materials to make the group flag. With the gathered materials, it's time to get started getting their hands dirty.
Afternoon was team-building games and supposedly, there should have a gulp of nice milo dinosaur, but was postponed due to CAT1. Luckily, after dinner, the weather was good for the campfire.
Both teams had a performance, and towards the end, the trainers wanted to sabo somefour volunteers by getting them wet, lucky for me, I was convinced that I should be a spectator for that performance.
Afterward, it's bed sweet bed for us after supper and bath. However it's dream on if you think it's really sweet, cause volunteers are sleeping with the kids, muahaha...
More photos shall be posted on facebook..
Friday, May 29, 2009
Motherly Love
I was on the train home today, and a mother was out shopping with her daughter and were on their way home too. With nothing better to do, I listened in on their conversation.
Mother: Tomorrow just tell your teacher you will hand in the work after the holiday la.
Daughter: How can?
Mother: Ai yo, just tell the teacher you were out to collect your passport then went shopping until 11 plus, 12 o'clock.
Daughter: That is not a valid reason...
Anyway, a quick check on the time shows, it's 10 o'clock and they alighted at the same stop as I did.
Mother: Tomorrow just tell your teacher you will hand in the work after the holiday la.
Daughter: How can?
Mother: Ai yo, just tell the teacher you were out to collect your passport then went shopping until 11 plus, 12 o'clock.
Daughter: That is not a valid reason...
Anyway, a quick check on the time shows, it's 10 o'clock and they alighted at the same stop as I did.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Dominating!!!
While an Arsenal fan committed suicide following Arsenal's exit in the Champions League at the hand of Man U, a Man U fan went on a dominating streak after Man U's defeat in the finals.
Nigerian bus driver kills four Barca supporters
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Proof by Contradiction
A very good example, if you don't already know what this proof is about:
Assume the man in green is YOU.
However, YOU can only see this poster, if YOU are in the train. Therefore, by Proof by Contradiction, YOU cannot be the man in green.
Q.E.D.
Assume the man in green is YOU.
However, YOU can only see this poster, if YOU are in the train. Therefore, by Proof by Contradiction, YOU cannot be the man in green.
Q.E.D.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
BackStage
Finally concluded Con Amore (exhibition cum bazaar cum sports day) last week. As the description suggested, this event includes many things. Being the designated driver for this event, I have driven the nussu van and clocked a few hundred miles, wandering all over the island.
Here's two pictures of the backstage staffs, a.k.a. logistics team carrying out their final task for the event, returning of 26 tables to OED.
I can safely say that this is the last time I'm doing a big scale bazaar. Damn tiring. Time to look forward to my next project's preparation starting in May.
Here's two pictures of the backstage staffs, a.k.a. logistics team carrying out their final task for the event, returning of 26 tables to OED.
I can safely say that this is the last time I'm doing a big scale bazaar. Damn tiring. Time to look forward to my next project's preparation starting in May.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Guard Duty
So bored now, this is the week of the much anticipated bazaar, Con Amore. After such a long preparation, it seems as though everything that can go wrong had. I wander how much can the bazaar earn.
This is the first time I'm posting in school at the wee hour. Hope I don't need to stay in school anymore like right now what I'm doing. Jaga-ing the things at the bazaar.
Yawnzz...
This is the first time I'm posting in school at the wee hour. Hope I don't need to stay in school anymore like right now what I'm doing. Jaga-ing the things at the bazaar.
Yawnzz...
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Another story at the Barber
That's why visiting the barber is fun.
I've wanted to keep longer hair for a change, but decided against it, so I went to the usual neighbourhood barber for a cut.
Once there, I was greeted by this old barber whom I vaguely remembered had cut my hair once before. He's one funny old man. He asked my whether I want my haircut the same as last time and I thought wow, he's really got good memory, even I hardly remembered the last time he cut my hair.
After I said yes, he started taking his own sweet time to set the towel and cape in place, then slowly taking his time to cut. The lucky thing was that I've done with all my work for now and not in a hurry.
Halfway through the cut, another customer came in and the boss attended to him, finished cutting and left, while I'm still in there wandering when the uncle will be done with mine.
Finally when he's satisfied with every detail, I took out a ten-dollar note, since I knew it's sufficient and I was expecting a change of $2. The boss was still hanging around and we had a casual chat. The uncle took about one minute before he found the change and handed over to me. Though I haven't paid attention to how much he'd given me, the boss was sharp, realizing he'd given me $4 instead of $2 and asked the uncle in Hokkien, "how much change you want to give him, he's a varsity student."
His memory was not as good as I thought..
I've wanted to keep longer hair for a change, but decided against it, so I went to the usual neighbourhood barber for a cut.
Once there, I was greeted by this old barber whom I vaguely remembered had cut my hair once before. He's one funny old man. He asked my whether I want my haircut the same as last time and I thought wow, he's really got good memory, even I hardly remembered the last time he cut my hair.
After I said yes, he started taking his own sweet time to set the towel and cape in place, then slowly taking his time to cut. The lucky thing was that I've done with all my work for now and not in a hurry.
Halfway through the cut, another customer came in and the boss attended to him, finished cutting and left, while I'm still in there wandering when the uncle will be done with mine.
Finally when he's satisfied with every detail, I took out a ten-dollar note, since I knew it's sufficient and I was expecting a change of $2. The boss was still hanging around and we had a casual chat. The uncle took about one minute before he found the change and handed over to me. Though I haven't paid attention to how much he'd given me, the boss was sharp, realizing he'd given me $4 instead of $2 and asked the uncle in Hokkien, "how much change you want to give him, he's a varsity student."
His memory was not as good as I thought..
Stressful wk
Finally all my mid term tests are over. Almost couldn't catch my breath this week, with 1 assignment and 5 tests due within 4 days. The recess week was so short some more, really not much of a recess.
The result of the first test is out already, and only managed to get 60%, think need to work harder.
Of the five tests, think the most difficult is the second test, and it happened to have the heaviest weightage. Now can only cross my finger and hope for the best..
The remaining three tests were relatively easier.
The result of the first test is out already, and only managed to get 60%, think need to work harder.
Of the five tests, think the most difficult is the second test, and it happened to have the heaviest weightage. Now can only cross my finger and hope for the best..
The remaining three tests were relatively easier.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Tall Hat
Usually, I'd be very happy when people praise me, but now when people say my maths is very good, I feel very stressed, caused it's not good at all..
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Do you want to be safe?
Not too long ago, I was approached by this random stranger outside JE Library, and he gave me a one hour lecture on salvation and repentance one day before my last paper. That particular paper, I got my worst grade ever.
Today, I was yet again stopped by another random stranger, this time in school.. Many people were walking towards the Central Forum and of all people, this guy came up to me, and started off with his gimmick. The question here is "WHY ME!?"
The most probable reason is that I have a sinful aura. From afar, my aura can already be felt, and when I walked their way, they have to stop me and share with me their story.
The good thing about this is that he knows I need to have my dinner before my last lesson, so this encounter only lasted for 10 minutes.
Today, I was yet again stopped by another random stranger, this time in school.. Many people were walking towards the Central Forum and of all people, this guy came up to me, and started off with his gimmick. The question here is "WHY ME!?"
The most probable reason is that I have a sinful aura. From afar, my aura can already be felt, and when I walked their way, they have to stop me and share with me their story.
The good thing about this is that he knows I need to have my dinner before my last lesson, so this encounter only lasted for 10 minutes.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
adrenaline rush
I simply don't understand why tutorial participation is such a popular component in our grading.
I agree sometimes(most of the times) that I do not participate in the discussion because I don't know how to do the questions. But on the occasions when I'm able to answer the questions, I still don't like to share my answers.
One reason is I find it very difficult to articulate my points when speaking aloud. Sometimes, I find that even I don't know what I'm talking, so I'd rather keep quiet.
Another reason is the post-effect of the contribution. Take for example today, in my smallest tutorial group ever, with a class size of 6, I was easily arrowed to answer questions. I feel quite out of place when I have to go to the board to write my answer. Even when I voluntarily shout out my answer, I feel my heart thumping really fast afterward, and it's too stimulating for my liking, even though I know I've earned an extra 0.5 mark or so for my contribution.
I agree sometimes(most of the times) that I do not participate in the discussion because I don't know how to do the questions. But on the occasions when I'm able to answer the questions, I still don't like to share my answers.
One reason is I find it very difficult to articulate my points when speaking aloud. Sometimes, I find that even I don't know what I'm talking, so I'd rather keep quiet.
Another reason is the post-effect of the contribution. Take for example today, in my smallest tutorial group ever, with a class size of 6, I was easily arrowed to answer questions. I feel quite out of place when I have to go to the board to write my answer. Even when I voluntarily shout out my answer, I feel my heart thumping really fast afterward, and it's too stimulating for my liking, even though I know I've earned an extra 0.5 mark or so for my contribution.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
A chain of many small events has led me to meet my little friend whom I met at the VSA camp last month, though it took me and him 3 seconds to recognize each other. Lol. Happens he was there for VSA arts lesson, so well, maybe we'll meet again. Glad he remembers my name too, many people say it's hard to remember.
Also received an email that I initially thought to be a spam. After reading through the broken English, I realized that it was sent from Cambodia, by one of the youths that came for our education camp. The email was nicely done up with a background picture, only the language needs some brushing up :p
Also received an email that I initially thought to be a spam. After reading through the broken English, I realized that it was sent from Cambodia, by one of the youths that came for our education camp. The email was nicely done up with a background picture, only the language needs some brushing up :p
Monday, January 12, 2009
A Busy Year
The timetable looks slack with a three-day week, but everything points to a busy year.. Especially in the second half of the year.
Starting off will be a series of meetings for an upcoming event in march. Hopefully this won't be as tiring as the trip to Cambodia, though I'll still be in the same job scope of logistics.
Apart from that, still have the post-trip to IMH at the end of January to settle, and many other miscellaneous stuff before we can finally conclude PSK'08.
Bye to PSK'08, say "Hello!" to PSK'09 in June. Let's see what's in for me this year when the date draws nearer. Already seeing some potential pitfall with the ICT coming in December this year..
IPPT will be done in February, clear the faster the better. Anyone wants to take with me just pm me. Thanks. :)
Starting off will be a series of meetings for an upcoming event in march. Hopefully this won't be as tiring as the trip to Cambodia, though I'll still be in the same job scope of logistics.
Apart from that, still have the post-trip to IMH at the end of January to settle, and many other miscellaneous stuff before we can finally conclude PSK'08.
Bye to PSK'08, say "Hello!" to PSK'09 in June. Let's see what's in for me this year when the date draws nearer. Already seeing some potential pitfall with the ICT coming in December this year..
IPPT will be done in February, clear the faster the better. Anyone wants to take with me just pm me. Thanks. :)
Friday, January 02, 2009
return of the BPian Spirit
Two years since I last went back to BPGH, so since the school has completed its renovation, they invited all alumni members to return and visit the "new" school. So I woke up early in the morning to go to school as though I was still a secondary school kid and went back to school on the first day of school.. Of course, my groupies won't give up the chance to play basketball at the new campus!
After the visit, I went on to have sakae buffet at wheelocks place as the gathering for my YEP'08 team, and they still gonna meet up for another 2 times before next Tuesday, wth and we just came back..
After the visit, I went on to have sakae buffet at wheelocks place as the gathering for my YEP'08 team, and they still gonna meet up for another 2 times before next Tuesday, wth and we just came back..
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