Final Reflection

I can still remember how apprehensive I was initially about taking this course. The heavy workload described by previous students was a main worry. Now, at the end of it, I am glad that we had taken up the challenge.

Most of us would probably have been exposed to the main principles of effective communication in the past. In this sense, what we have learnt in this class were not novel or unique ideas. However, what distinguishes this class from others in NUS is probably the opportunities that we had to practise these skills. Through this practices, I could feel myself gradually gaining confidence as well. For example, I have always wanted to be better at presenting. I would look at how some of my friends are so engaging and interesting, and wished I could be like them. After this course, however, I started to believe that with confidence, I am better than what I perceived myself to be. Even though I still hate presenting as much as I do before. Nevertheless, this is probably the most valuable aspect that I am able to take away from this course - the knowledge that I can be an effective communicator if I set my heart to it.

The job hunting aspect of the course was also extremely practical, especially for graduating students. I picked up an extremely useful tip in the process, that is, to be aware of what qualities and skills the employer is looking for. This applies to writing resumes, application letters and job interviews. I realised that I used to be too concerned about my own attributes, and failed to paint how I could be a good fit for the positions that I applied for in the past. Now, I cannot believe how I had overlooked something as fundamental as this. Hopefully, with this new insight, I will have more successes in the future!

Lastly, I would like to thank Brad for making the lessons far more interesting than most other NUS courses as well as his useful feedback for all our work. Also, to everyone in group 7, as helpful and friendly as can be!