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!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Friday, April 9, 2010
Reflection on Oral Presentation
For this presentation, I felt that I was relatively more confident. We had a number of practices before, and this helped me to be more familiar with the content, and consequently, I was less nervous during the presentation itself. I also realised that the more nervous I am, the faster I tend to talk and the more likely I am to fumble over my words. Thus, I was glad that this time around, I felt that I stumbled less often than usual and was relatively more fluent than my usual self. In terms of articulation and projection, I thought that I was relatively fine as well. I felt that the slides were also visually appealing and helped especially in the comparison that I was trying to make, without being a distraction from the presentation.
However, I realised that I gestured excessively to the laptop screen in front of me, instead of at the projection that everyone was looking at. Towards the end of my presentation, I became more aware of this and tried to change accordingly. Also, I probably could have more eye contact with the audience, instead of looking at the screen in front of me. In terms of engaging the audience, I felt that I could probably be more interactive instead of focusing only on presenting my part well. I could also probably have been assertive in developing the argument and highlighting the problem.
In terms of the overall presentation, what I would especially liked to highlight were our slides and video. I thought that the slides looked professional, and this was actually my first presentation in which the slides were not made in the 'conventional' manner, filled with bullets and titles. It did seem to help make the presentation more professional. The videos that Jon made were also very useful in this aspect. I felt that as a group, our presentation flowed naturally and convincingly, where everyone's presentation and argument fitted nicely into the big picture. I hope that came across to the audience as well.
I will very much like to know what the audience thought about our presentation. Please feel free to post your comments, and thank you very much in advance.
However, I realised that I gestured excessively to the laptop screen in front of me, instead of at the projection that everyone was looking at. Towards the end of my presentation, I became more aware of this and tried to change accordingly. Also, I probably could have more eye contact with the audience, instead of looking at the screen in front of me. In terms of engaging the audience, I felt that I could probably be more interactive instead of focusing only on presenting my part well. I could also probably have been assertive in developing the argument and highlighting the problem.
In terms of the overall presentation, what I would especially liked to highlight were our slides and video. I thought that the slides looked professional, and this was actually my first presentation in which the slides were not made in the 'conventional' manner, filled with bullets and titles. It did seem to help make the presentation more professional. The videos that Jon made were also very useful in this aspect. I felt that as a group, our presentation flowed naturally and convincingly, where everyone's presentation and argument fitted nicely into the big picture. I hope that came across to the audience as well.
I will very much like to know what the audience thought about our presentation. Please feel free to post your comments, and thank you very much in advance.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Proposal Draft 2 - Introduction and Background
Introduction
The MICE industry, which stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions, has become a focus of economic growth in Singapore over the last decade. Some of the key competitive advantages that enable Singapore to become a prominent MICE location include its prime location in Asia, where the economy is expected to boom over the next few decades, its understanding of various cultures and values, its reputation as an efficient regional economic hub, well established global transportation network and its open, global economy.
Efforts to spearhead growth in the MICE industry were first started in 2003 by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) with a S$15 million initiative (Singapore Tourism Board, 2003). This comprised largely of incentives offered to organizations such as promotional rates at hotels and airlines as well as a global advertising campaign targeted at key markets such as China, the United States and Japan (Singapore Tourism Board, 2003). Over the first half of 2009, companies in this industry have seen as much as 60% growth in sales, a marked disparity against those of many other sectors (Wong, 2008). Twice as many shows and events have been planned for 2010 as compared to the year before (Wong, 2009). STB has also the ambitious aim of growing the MICE industry at an average annual rate of 3.5 times over the next ten years (Jailani, n.d.). The opening of the two integrated resorts will also increase the infrastructure available for MICE events significantly. The MICE industry has also managed to weather the economic downturn over the past few years relatively unscathed. As these events are likely to be planned a few years in advance, they are likely to proceed despite fluctuations in the economy. Also, the services offered by the industry will still be needed despite difficult economic conditions. Evidently, these indicators translate into immense manpower needs and opportunities in this industry in the near future.
Background
Professionals working in the MICE industry often have to handle a multitude of tasks and responsibilities, including managing interpersonal relationships between clients, suppliers and caterers, developing marketing strategies for their businesses, handling customer service relations and overseeing operations of events. In most of these job functions, effective communications is a vital part of ensuring the smooth running of the event. This can be in seen in the job requirements described in job openings in the industry. For example, in looking to fill an Assistant Sales Director opening in Singapore Expo, they require that candidates must have “strong negotiation, public speaking and presentation skills”, “excellent written and spoken communication skills”, as well as “excellent interpersonal skill” (Singapore EXPO Convention, n.d.). The Ministry of Manpower (n.d.) also described excellent communications and interpersonal skills as a key requirement for those interested in positions such as Conference Manager or Event Organiser. Our interview with Miss Samantha Lee, Catering and Communications Manager in Marina Bay Sands, also confirmed the importance of communication skills in her position. Some of the communication skills that she particularly highlighted include being aware of the suitable tone and language use when communicating with clients, as well as frequent and effective communication between sales and operations personnel to prevent any potential misunderstandings. These examples highlight the importance of competent communication skills to professionals in the MICE industry.
Among the three local universities, the main source of skilled personnel for the local economy, the way in which these universities ensure that their graduates are equipped with communication skills is varied. In Nanyang Technological University (NTU), undergraduates in the Nanyang Business School have the option to pursue a specialization in tourism and hospitality management. On top of being equipped with knowledge of the various components of the MICE industry as well as fundamental communication courses, Communication Fundamentals and Communication Management Strategies, NTU students are also exposed to marketing issues and strategies specifically related to the tourism industry (Nanyang Business School, 2008). While Singapore Management University (SMU) does not offer any specific specialization in this field, there are numerous communication courses offered that will be especially handy to new graduates in the MICE industry. These include Management Communication, Business Negotiation, Conflict Resolution and Effective Business Presentations (Lee Kong Chian School, 2010). Furthermore, courses offered under the Corporate Communication specialization, such as Intercultural Communication, Public Relations Writing, and Persuasion: The Business of Influence ensure that SMU students who pursue this track will be well-equipped to handle the communication challenges in the MICE industry.
On the other hand, students in the National University of Singapore (NUS) are comparatively less prepared in terms of their undergraduate curriculum. There are no courses in events management or related fields for business students wishing to pursue a career in the MICE industry. A one-semester course, Business Communication, is a compulsory module for business undergraduates. The contents of the course include understanding the different communication models, the basics of writing letters and reports, the dynamics of interpersonal and intercultural communication as well as the art of business presentation skills (“ES2002 Business Communication”, 2009.). However, trying to learn, internalise and practise these wide varying skills in the matter of thirteen weeks may be too demanding and ineffective. Comparatively, SMU students have the opportunity to hone their communication skills through the many various communication courses described above. Also, courses offered by the Geography Department in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, such as Leisure, Recreation and Tourism and Tourism Development tend to take an academic and theoretical approach in understanding the industry and its impact on society, as opposed to equipping students with the career skills needed in the industry. For example, in the course Leisure, Recreation and Tourism, students study the implications of tourism on the economic, social and cultural landscapes (“GE2218: Leisure, Recreation”, 2010), while in Tourism Development, students study basic components of tourism development and the models that are used in tourism development and planning (“GE3226: Tourism Development”, 2010). Training students to have the necessary communication skills for the MICE industry may be inadequate to meet the demands of the industry.
Thus, there appears to be a disparity between the curriculum offered by the three major local universities in terms of how they are equipping students to be effective communicators in the MICE industry. Our preliminary research suggests that NUS students may be at a disadvantage when it comes to the communication needs in the MICE industry. This may be especially worrying as communication is an integral component of MICE, and the lack of preparation in the undergraduate schools may result in the decrease in employability of NUS students in this industry.
The MICE industry, which stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions, has become a focus of economic growth in Singapore over the last decade. Some of the key competitive advantages that enable Singapore to become a prominent MICE location include its prime location in Asia, where the economy is expected to boom over the next few decades, its understanding of various cultures and values, its reputation as an efficient regional economic hub, well established global transportation network and its open, global economy.
Efforts to spearhead growth in the MICE industry were first started in 2003 by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) with a S$15 million initiative (Singapore Tourism Board, 2003). This comprised largely of incentives offered to organizations such as promotional rates at hotels and airlines as well as a global advertising campaign targeted at key markets such as China, the United States and Japan (Singapore Tourism Board, 2003). Over the first half of 2009, companies in this industry have seen as much as 60% growth in sales, a marked disparity against those of many other sectors (Wong, 2008). Twice as many shows and events have been planned for 2010 as compared to the year before (Wong, 2009). STB has also the ambitious aim of growing the MICE industry at an average annual rate of 3.5 times over the next ten years (Jailani, n.d.). The opening of the two integrated resorts will also increase the infrastructure available for MICE events significantly. The MICE industry has also managed to weather the economic downturn over the past few years relatively unscathed. As these events are likely to be planned a few years in advance, they are likely to proceed despite fluctuations in the economy. Also, the services offered by the industry will still be needed despite difficult economic conditions. Evidently, these indicators translate into immense manpower needs and opportunities in this industry in the near future.
Background
Professionals working in the MICE industry often have to handle a multitude of tasks and responsibilities, including managing interpersonal relationships between clients, suppliers and caterers, developing marketing strategies for their businesses, handling customer service relations and overseeing operations of events. In most of these job functions, effective communications is a vital part of ensuring the smooth running of the event. This can be in seen in the job requirements described in job openings in the industry. For example, in looking to fill an Assistant Sales Director opening in Singapore Expo, they require that candidates must have “strong negotiation, public speaking and presentation skills”, “excellent written and spoken communication skills”, as well as “excellent interpersonal skill” (Singapore EXPO Convention, n.d.). The Ministry of Manpower (n.d.) also described excellent communications and interpersonal skills as a key requirement for those interested in positions such as Conference Manager or Event Organiser. Our interview with Miss Samantha Lee, Catering and Communications Manager in Marina Bay Sands, also confirmed the importance of communication skills in her position. Some of the communication skills that she particularly highlighted include being aware of the suitable tone and language use when communicating with clients, as well as frequent and effective communication between sales and operations personnel to prevent any potential misunderstandings. These examples highlight the importance of competent communication skills to professionals in the MICE industry.
Among the three local universities, the main source of skilled personnel for the local economy, the way in which these universities ensure that their graduates are equipped with communication skills is varied. In Nanyang Technological University (NTU), undergraduates in the Nanyang Business School have the option to pursue a specialization in tourism and hospitality management. On top of being equipped with knowledge of the various components of the MICE industry as well as fundamental communication courses, Communication Fundamentals and Communication Management Strategies, NTU students are also exposed to marketing issues and strategies specifically related to the tourism industry (Nanyang Business School, 2008). While Singapore Management University (SMU) does not offer any specific specialization in this field, there are numerous communication courses offered that will be especially handy to new graduates in the MICE industry. These include Management Communication, Business Negotiation, Conflict Resolution and Effective Business Presentations (Lee Kong Chian School, 2010). Furthermore, courses offered under the Corporate Communication specialization, such as Intercultural Communication, Public Relations Writing, and Persuasion: The Business of Influence ensure that SMU students who pursue this track will be well-equipped to handle the communication challenges in the MICE industry.
On the other hand, students in the National University of Singapore (NUS) are comparatively less prepared in terms of their undergraduate curriculum. There are no courses in events management or related fields for business students wishing to pursue a career in the MICE industry. A one-semester course, Business Communication, is a compulsory module for business undergraduates. The contents of the course include understanding the different communication models, the basics of writing letters and reports, the dynamics of interpersonal and intercultural communication as well as the art of business presentation skills (“ES2002 Business Communication”, 2009.). However, trying to learn, internalise and practise these wide varying skills in the matter of thirteen weeks may be too demanding and ineffective. Comparatively, SMU students have the opportunity to hone their communication skills through the many various communication courses described above. Also, courses offered by the Geography Department in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, such as Leisure, Recreation and Tourism and Tourism Development tend to take an academic and theoretical approach in understanding the industry and its impact on society, as opposed to equipping students with the career skills needed in the industry. For example, in the course Leisure, Recreation and Tourism, students study the implications of tourism on the economic, social and cultural landscapes (“GE2218: Leisure, Recreation”, 2010), while in Tourism Development, students study basic components of tourism development and the models that are used in tourism development and planning (“GE3226: Tourism Development”, 2010). Training students to have the necessary communication skills for the MICE industry may be inadequate to meet the demands of the industry.
Thus, there appears to be a disparity between the curriculum offered by the three major local universities in terms of how they are equipping students to be effective communicators in the MICE industry. Our preliminary research suggests that NUS students may be at a disadvantage when it comes to the communication needs in the MICE industry. This may be especially worrying as communication is an integral component of MICE, and the lack of preparation in the undergraduate schools may result in the decrease in employability of NUS students in this industry.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Proposal Draft 1 - Background
The MICE industry, which stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions, has become a focus of economic growth in Singapore over the last decade. Some of the key competitive advantages that enable Singapore to become a prominent MICE location include its prime location in Asia, where the economy is expected to boom over the next few decades, its understanding of various cultures and values, its reputation as an efficient regional economic hub, well established global transportation network and its open, global economy.
Efforts to spearhead growth in the MICE industry were first started in 2003 by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) with a S$15 million initiative (1). This comprised largely of incentives offered to organizations such as promotional rates at hotels and airlines as well as a global advertising campaign targeted at key markets such as China, the United States and Japan (1). Over the first half of 2009, companies in this industry have seen as much as 60% growth in sales, a marked disparity against those of many other sectors (2). Twice as many shows and events have been planned for 2010 as compared to the year before (3). STB has also the ambitious aim of growing the MICE industry at an average annual rate of 3.5 times over the next ten years (4). The opening of the two integrated resorts will also increase the infrastructure available for MICE events significantly. The MICE industry has also managed to weather the economic downturn over the past few years relatively unscathed. As these events are likely to be planned a few years in advance, they are likely to proceed despite fluctuations in the economy. Also, the services offered by the industry will still be needed despite difficult economic conditions. Evidently, these indicators translate into immense manpower needs and opportunities in this industry in the near future.
Among the three local universities, the main source of skilled personnel for the local economy, the response to the growing MICE industry is varied. In Nanyang Techonological University (NTU), undergraduates in the Nanyang Business School have the option to pursue a specialization in tourism and hospitality management. On top of being equipped with knowledge of the various components of the MICE industry as well as fundamental communication courses, Communication Fundamentals and Communication Management Strategies (5), NTU students are also exposed to marketing issues and strategies specifically related to the tourism industry (6). While Singapore Management University (SMU) does not offer any specific specialization in this field, there are numerous communication courses offered that will be especially handy to new graduates in the MICE industry. These include Management Communication, Business Negotiation, Conflict Resolution and Effective Business Presentations (7). Furthermore, courses offered under the Corporate Communication specialization, such as Intercultural Communication, Public Relations Writing, and Persuasion: The Business of Influence (8) ensure that SMU students who pursue this track will be well-equipped to handle the communication challenges in the MICE industry.
On the other hand, students in the National University of Singapore (NUS) are comparatively less prepared in terms of their undergraduate curriculum. A one-semester course, Business Communication, is a compulsory module for business undergraduates, but this general communications course may not adequately prepare undergraduates for the specific communication needs in the MICE industry. Also, courses offered by the Geography Department in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, such as Leisure, Recreation and Tourism and Tourism Development tend to take an academic approach in its teaching, as opposed to equipping students with the career skills needed in the industry.
Thus, there appears to be a disparity between the curriculum offered by the three major local universities in terms of how they are equipping students to be effective communicators in the MICE industry. Our preliminary research suggest that NUS students may be at a disadvantage when it comes to the communication needs in the MICE industry. This may be especially worrying as communication is an integral component of MICE, and the lack of preparation in the undergraduate schools may result in the decrease in employability of NUS students in this industry.
Efforts to spearhead growth in the MICE industry were first started in 2003 by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) with a S$15 million initiative (1). This comprised largely of incentives offered to organizations such as promotional rates at hotels and airlines as well as a global advertising campaign targeted at key markets such as China, the United States and Japan (1). Over the first half of 2009, companies in this industry have seen as much as 60% growth in sales, a marked disparity against those of many other sectors (2). Twice as many shows and events have been planned for 2010 as compared to the year before (3). STB has also the ambitious aim of growing the MICE industry at an average annual rate of 3.5 times over the next ten years (4). The opening of the two integrated resorts will also increase the infrastructure available for MICE events significantly. The MICE industry has also managed to weather the economic downturn over the past few years relatively unscathed. As these events are likely to be planned a few years in advance, they are likely to proceed despite fluctuations in the economy. Also, the services offered by the industry will still be needed despite difficult economic conditions. Evidently, these indicators translate into immense manpower needs and opportunities in this industry in the near future.
Among the three local universities, the main source of skilled personnel for the local economy, the response to the growing MICE industry is varied. In Nanyang Techonological University (NTU), undergraduates in the Nanyang Business School have the option to pursue a specialization in tourism and hospitality management. On top of being equipped with knowledge of the various components of the MICE industry as well as fundamental communication courses, Communication Fundamentals and Communication Management Strategies (5), NTU students are also exposed to marketing issues and strategies specifically related to the tourism industry (6). While Singapore Management University (SMU) does not offer any specific specialization in this field, there are numerous communication courses offered that will be especially handy to new graduates in the MICE industry. These include Management Communication, Business Negotiation, Conflict Resolution and Effective Business Presentations (7). Furthermore, courses offered under the Corporate Communication specialization, such as Intercultural Communication, Public Relations Writing, and Persuasion: The Business of Influence (8) ensure that SMU students who pursue this track will be well-equipped to handle the communication challenges in the MICE industry.
On the other hand, students in the National University of Singapore (NUS) are comparatively less prepared in terms of their undergraduate curriculum. A one-semester course, Business Communication, is a compulsory module for business undergraduates, but this general communications course may not adequately prepare undergraduates for the specific communication needs in the MICE industry. Also, courses offered by the Geography Department in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, such as Leisure, Recreation and Tourism and Tourism Development tend to take an academic approach in its teaching, as opposed to equipping students with the career skills needed in the industry.
Thus, there appears to be a disparity between the curriculum offered by the three major local universities in terms of how they are equipping students to be effective communicators in the MICE industry. Our preliminary research suggest that NUS students may be at a disadvantage when it comes to the communication needs in the MICE industry. This may be especially worrying as communication is an integral component of MICE, and the lack of preparation in the undergraduate schools may result in the decrease in employability of NUS students in this industry.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Intercultural Exchange
Recently, we invited a group of students from a Japanese high school to NUS as part of a cultural and language exchange project. The students were mostly around 17 years old, and were in Singapore due to their parents' work commitments. For this project, we showed them around NUS and chatted about various aspects of life in Singapore.
Based on our conversation, I realized that even though most of them had stayed in Singapore for at least a year, most of them do not really have many Singaporean friends. Instead, they spend most of their free time with their classmates and families. Some of this could possibly be attributed to the language barrier. While most of them have a good command of English, they seem hesitant to use it. This may probably be due to their lack of confidence. There have also been numerous cultural exchanges held between their school and local students. For example, the Ministry of Education Language Center regularly organizes various activities with them. While it may be easier for them to mix with students of their own age, the interactions do not seem to have extended beyond these organized settings. It is understandable that people from similar cultures tend to stick together when they are in a foreign environment. However, the extent to which these students remain within their culture 'bubble' was rather surprising to me. After all, one of the advantages of living in another country is to gain exposure to different cultures and experiences. However, our tendency to stick to what we are familiar with often prevents effective intercultural exchange.
I have often heard about how the Japanese may be welcoming to foreigners in their country. However, many foreigners have felt that it is nearly impossible for them to become accepted as part of their society, no matter how long they stay there. Maybe I would get the chance to find out how true this is one day.
Based on our conversation, I realized that even though most of them had stayed in Singapore for at least a year, most of them do not really have many Singaporean friends. Instead, they spend most of their free time with their classmates and families. Some of this could possibly be attributed to the language barrier. While most of them have a good command of English, they seem hesitant to use it. This may probably be due to their lack of confidence. There have also been numerous cultural exchanges held between their school and local students. For example, the Ministry of Education Language Center regularly organizes various activities with them. While it may be easier for them to mix with students of their own age, the interactions do not seem to have extended beyond these organized settings. It is understandable that people from similar cultures tend to stick together when they are in a foreign environment. However, the extent to which these students remain within their culture 'bubble' was rather surprising to me. After all, one of the advantages of living in another country is to gain exposure to different cultures and experiences. However, our tendency to stick to what we are familiar with often prevents effective intercultural exchange.
I have often heard about how the Japanese may be welcoming to foreigners in their country. However, many foreigners have felt that it is nearly impossible for them to become accepted as part of their society, no matter how long they stay there. Maybe I would get the chance to find out how true this is one day.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Application Letter - First Draft
February 7, 2010
Ms. Esther Tan
Director, Human Resource
Singapore General Hospital Human Resource Division
Dear Ms. Tan,
I am a National University of Singapore (NUS) student majoring in Bioengineering, and I am applying to join the Hospital Executive Programme. I believe that my critical thinking skills, communication and leadership capabilities will allow me to benefit greatly from this programme and contribute towards the hospital’s vision of becoming an internationally acclaimed hospital.
I believe that my critical thinking and reasoning skills will put me in good stead to overcome challenges in the hospital. My coursework in the engineering faculty in NUS has emphasized problem solving and creative thinking. Furthermore, the diverse curriculum has exposed me to various fields such as the life sciences, engineering, human resource and language studies. I have consistently performed well in these wide-ranging courses. The faculty has also awarded me the Dean’s list award on two occasions, and I am on track to graduate with a first class honours. I believe that my training in university has taught me to adopt an interdisciplinary mindset in handling problems. It has also equipped me with the skills to learn quickly and actively, which I believe will be essential in picking up the various aspects of hospital management in the programme.
On top of my academic achievements, I have also had exposure to various leadership positions. I was elected into the student committee that represented the undergraduate bioengineering students. I planned student events, promoted interaction between students and faculty as well as introduced prospective undergraduates to Bioengineering in NUS. I also led a team in designing a new ankle prosthesis for a design project. This involved facilitating brainstorming sessions, overseeing the various roles played by each member, as well as planning timeline and goals. I also had to learn to work, lead and motivate effectively while under the pressure of tight deadlines. My efforts in leading my team were recognized when I was awarded the top grade for our project. I also had the chance to interact with students from many different countries when I spent a semester in the University of Connecticut in the first half of 2009. The graduate classes that I took while overseas encouraged discussion of ideas, and this experience helped me to improve my communication skills and increased my cultural awareness. The skills that I have acquired will help me to better manage projects in the role of an executive in the future.
A career in SGH will help me to fulfill my career aspirations to improve the well-being of individuals. The many issues that arise in hospital management will also be part of an exciting and rewarding career that I look forward to. Thank you very much for considering my application, and I look forward to speaking to you in the future.
Yours Sincerely,
Wong Fatt Weng Ronnie
Tel: XXXXXXX
Email: fattweng@yahoo.com.sg
Ms. Esther Tan
Director, Human Resource
Singapore General Hospital Human Resource Division
Dear Ms. Tan,
I am a National University of Singapore (NUS) student majoring in Bioengineering, and I am applying to join the Hospital Executive Programme. I believe that my critical thinking skills, communication and leadership capabilities will allow me to benefit greatly from this programme and contribute towards the hospital’s vision of becoming an internationally acclaimed hospital.
I believe that my critical thinking and reasoning skills will put me in good stead to overcome challenges in the hospital. My coursework in the engineering faculty in NUS has emphasized problem solving and creative thinking. Furthermore, the diverse curriculum has exposed me to various fields such as the life sciences, engineering, human resource and language studies. I have consistently performed well in these wide-ranging courses. The faculty has also awarded me the Dean’s list award on two occasions, and I am on track to graduate with a first class honours. I believe that my training in university has taught me to adopt an interdisciplinary mindset in handling problems. It has also equipped me with the skills to learn quickly and actively, which I believe will be essential in picking up the various aspects of hospital management in the programme.
On top of my academic achievements, I have also had exposure to various leadership positions. I was elected into the student committee that represented the undergraduate bioengineering students. I planned student events, promoted interaction between students and faculty as well as introduced prospective undergraduates to Bioengineering in NUS. I also led a team in designing a new ankle prosthesis for a design project. This involved facilitating brainstorming sessions, overseeing the various roles played by each member, as well as planning timeline and goals. I also had to learn to work, lead and motivate effectively while under the pressure of tight deadlines. My efforts in leading my team were recognized when I was awarded the top grade for our project. I also had the chance to interact with students from many different countries when I spent a semester in the University of Connecticut in the first half of 2009. The graduate classes that I took while overseas encouraged discussion of ideas, and this experience helped me to improve my communication skills and increased my cultural awareness. The skills that I have acquired will help me to better manage projects in the role of an executive in the future.
A career in SGH will help me to fulfill my career aspirations to improve the well-being of individuals. The many issues that arise in hospital management will also be part of an exciting and rewarding career that I look forward to. Thank you very much for considering my application, and I look forward to speaking to you in the future.
Yours Sincerely,
Wong Fatt Weng Ronnie
Tel: XXXXXXX
Email: fattweng@yahoo.com.sg
Possible Solution to Interpersonal Conflict
Actually, I do not have a good solution to the problem myself. The situation is from my friend's experience. To my knowledge, the two of them are hardly in contact these days. I would thus like to propose a solution based on Jon and Kenny's comments.
Lisa could have probably came up with a list of reasons for her decision. This could include both her personal reasons as well as a number of issues that she has about Candice. For the latter, as Jon suggested, it should be phrased in a neutral manner, such that it is not perceived as a personal insult. Instead of saying that she could not tolerate her slow habits, Lisa could have said that she is aware of her short temper. If they stay together, she is worried that she will be continually snapping at Candice and create a lot of tension between them. For her personal reasons, she could have said that part of her objectives in going for this trip is to experience living abroad alone. While coming up with her reasons, Lisa could have been mindful about what kind of effect they will have on Lisa, and try to understand her possible reactions to them. Finally, Lisa could have stressed that an important reason in wanting to go alone is to maintain their friendship. This will be especially true if she believes that their friendship will be badly affected if they stay together.
Most of us probably face similar dilemmas and problems when interacting with our friends. Being aware of how our words and actions may affect our friends will likely be an important factor towards maintaining friendship.
Lisa could have probably came up with a list of reasons for her decision. This could include both her personal reasons as well as a number of issues that she has about Candice. For the latter, as Jon suggested, it should be phrased in a neutral manner, such that it is not perceived as a personal insult. Instead of saying that she could not tolerate her slow habits, Lisa could have said that she is aware of her short temper. If they stay together, she is worried that she will be continually snapping at Candice and create a lot of tension between them. For her personal reasons, she could have said that part of her objectives in going for this trip is to experience living abroad alone. While coming up with her reasons, Lisa could have been mindful about what kind of effect they will have on Lisa, and try to understand her possible reactions to them. Finally, Lisa could have stressed that an important reason in wanting to go alone is to maintain their friendship. This will be especially true if she believes that their friendship will be badly affected if they stay together.
Most of us probably face similar dilemmas and problems when interacting with our friends. Being aware of how our words and actions may affect our friends will likely be an important factor towards maintaining friendship.
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