Very proud Chinese lady at the bank

Today I went out to the DBS bank at Clementi to bank my cheque. After I had filled up the forms, I joined the queue. In front of me was this Chinese aunty who I assume to be in her early 50s. She turned around, saw me and exclaimed "Wah, so tall ah you!". As usual, the expected question that comes after that is - "Do you play basketball?". Haha.. unfortunately, my height has nothing to do with me playing basketball. I didn't really play basketball until after I came to Singapore.

Anyway, back to the point. After asking about my height, she starts to talk about America - Las Vegas. She continued to critise Batam as stupid because they have just banned the casinos there. Her rational was that countries that have casinos prosper well and that casinos earn a lot of money. In my mind, I thought - "Wah, she very support S'pore gov't on the casino". Before long, she went to say - "S'pore now then start have casino. Way too late liao lah. How to compete. You see: Macau, KL (isn't it suppose to be Genting?) all so rich now". I just nodded and didn't really care what she said.

After she stopped talking about casinos, she started to rant about Chinese overseas - how united they were. The way she describe it, I think if I put it on this blog, you might see my name in the newspaper tomorrow for causing some discontent in racial harmony. I was shocked when she started to explain how in countries like America, Chinese overseas are very united and "white" people see color. She went on to explain that see color makes the Chinese people strong and that it forces them to stick together and earn a lot of money. Furthermore, she was virtually attacking any non-Chinese. Everyone in the bank could hear her. I looked around nervously and wondered if there would be someone to protest. People around didn't really bother or as how I would feel if I was one of them - "Seesh, who is this person talking a lot of crap". As she continued, I felt like saying "Lady, please stop. Keep the opinion to yourself."

After talking about "color", she went on to brag about overseas Chinese as super rich. Sugar King, Timber King, Flour King, etc. She said to me "You know Robert Kuok - Sugar King... you see so rich." In my mind I thought - "Heh...Lady, if I was still studying in NUS this year, I would take up the opportunity to have lunch with him in Hong Kong this December." The queue for the bank counter felt like eternity as she continued. It was torturous. I've never met someone who can say so much to a stranger other than the taxi drivers. Taxi driver coffee-shop talk I'm used to but bank customers having coffee-shop talk, this is my first experience. Anyone else had similar experiences before?

First Day of Work

This morning I went off to the company very early. First day mah, so wanna make a good impression. As expected when I arrived at the office at 850am, there were not many people around and the lights were not all switched on yet. I looked around to see if I can find someone to report myself. A moment later, one of the admin staff came and asked. I told her that it was my first day and waiting for the admin officer in-charge. She asked me to sit and wait. While waiting there, I found out that the office itself is separated into two sections. One is TCS and the other is Tata Technologies. TCS people come into the office only around 910~930.

During the wait, I met two others who would be going off to India with me. There's suppose to be another guy but he didn't go to the office today. Anyway, there wasn't much to do at the office today. It was mainly brief abit about when we might be leaving. The exact date I'll be leaveing for India is not yet known. According to the HR manager, we could be off this weekend or middle of next week. We were all abit shocked at the dates set although I was abit prepared as I knew we were suppose to be in India early October.

The best part of working for TCS at the moment is ~ we were all sent back home by 12pm after we settled the administrative stuff and need not report to the office till 30th Sept. This is because TCS Singapore is just a recruitment office/hub. The office here does not have servers or high-tech computer equipments. I suppose those based in Singapore are outsourced to work in projects of clients. My colleagues who would be going to India with me were bragging to their friends that they were on a "paid-leave". This is abit melampau but I suppose it is a good thing that I'm paid to stay at home and sleep till before I fly. =P

Isolation stunts creativity

The more I stay in, the less I feel like blogging. These days I can't seem to think of a good topic to blog about. There are a few issues in my mind but I can't develop my thoughts into a blog post. What to do? I need inspiration! lol~

中秋节快乐

Today's moon was very beautiful. Here's some pics which I took with my new camera. Unfortunately, my camera does not do any justice to the actual view of the moon.

Blur Image of the moon - looks like a light bulb (Taken without flash - my hands are too shaky)

The moon (Taken with flash)

Moon with clouds on the side (not very clear ~ need better camera, SLR?)

I like this picture - looks as if a cosmic explosion just occured. Of course, it's only the moon's light through the clouds. (Again, the fault of my camera.. hahaha.... viewing it through our eyes is much much better than through the camera lens)

My new camera!

After I found out that I would be having my job trainings in India, I realised that I needed a camera. To make things unfavourable, the COMEX held in Suntec City was over. I didn't know what to do as I am not a good shopper. I don't know how to compare prices and bargain. I ended up searching online on how to buy cameras from Sim Lim. Guess what! I found a wonderful site where tourist discuss in the forums on how to get the best camera deals from Sim Lim Square. These 'ang mohs' ah, you always think they go Sim Lim to be 'tang1' (Direct translation - Slaughtered). The forum teaches them how not to be fooled by the shopkeeper's 'special price only for you my fren'.
Step 1: Go Mustafa center check out the prices and the freebies
Step 2: Go Sim Lim check prices
Step 3: Negotiate for a price lower than Mustafa and get them to throw in freebies e.g. memory card.

So, I did follow those steps except for the bargaining part. I'm not very good at it. This is my experience:
1. Went into shop, ask about price for Panasonic & Canon camera. ~Get price liao~
2. Was hesitating as price was abit high so asked if have promotion. ~Salesman say no, over liao~
3. Turned around abit sad thinking "Oklah, maybe I don't really need a camera"
4. Salesman quickly say "What you like? I give you free memory card - 128Mb!"
5. My eyes glimmered. I think he sensed that. But I still hesitated, I was like "er... 128 ah.. too small ler..." Turned around again preparing to leave.
6. Salesman say "Ok ok! I give you 256! You like?" ~BINGO!
7. "Ok... I think I will wan to buy"
8. He then intro me his Konica Minolta camera (according to HF, this shop is the authorized dealer of KM cameras, so they'll hard sell it to you, anyway...)
9. I liked the camera, he gave an offer price of $599. I was like er... I must bargain but how? I am still very naive.. and nice to the salesman so I asked for $580. He was like "Hey.. $19, also wanna bargain meh? Ok lah.. I give u 590".. I accepted.
10. Then he suggested I get 2nd battery - special price for today is $55 compare to usual $75. So total is suppose to be $645. I bargain again.. ask for $640. He was again like "Hey... $5 also wanna bargain." I replied "Yah.. easy mah.. round off". Despite his reply, he gave me what I asked for. I suppose it was a small bargain. He must be laughing inside that he has a weak bargaining customer.

Anyway, overall, I am quite satisfied with the salesman's service. At least he was trying to service me and ensured that the camera was all in good order. I will look towards the positive side of this and prevent myself from suffering 'post-purchase dissonance' syndrome (Besides, this syndrome is common so no need to feel bad). Here's a pic of my camera :D

Cool morning yesterday

Actually I wanted to blog this post yesterday night but was busy until quite late. Why was yesterday cool? Well, to start off, I actually forced myself into bed early the night before. This was to ensure that I could wake up early yesterday. I hate the feeling of getting up from bed tired and stretching all over. It spoils my mood. The best way to start of the day is when I get up feeling fresh and energetic. So... trying to lead a healthy lifestyle - Got up -> wash up. After that, turned on Channel News Asia to catch Prime Time Morning while drinking my cup of tomato juice (Vitamin C is good for body u noe?). Ah~ This is the life.

After that, I spent another hour watching the news. It got abit boring when the same news are repeated over and over again. I decided that I should get out of my chair and do some exercise. So.......... I prepared myself and went out to swim! This is my 2nd time in the pool after being here in S'pore for 3years. I didn't swim far as I got tired very easily. I can't swim 50m without resting. I remembered the first time I went to the pool here in S'pore, I was abit over-ambitious - recalling the days when I represented my district swimming team to compete in the nationals back home in Brunei (which was like 10years ago). I swam half-way realised that I was too tired to swim further, I struggled to the ledge at the side. I thought for a moment there I was going to drown. Scary... After that incident last year, I only swim near the sides. I dare not swim far from support liao. I suppose I need to swim more frequently to get my body used to the water as well as building up stamina. After the swim yesterday, I'm planning to go to the pool again soon.

我的汉字很不ok

我发觉到原来我很久没写汉字了，所以我想试试看用电脑打汉字。我知道我自己的华文grammar一定有错。我差不多有一年没有学华文了。很多汉字我已经忘了怎么写也有很多我忘了怎么念。如果陈老师和林老师知道，他们一定会觉得 disappointed。
因为我已经找到工作，工作还没开始所以天天很得空。从明天起，我得天天学写汉字。(要不然到了台湾会给弄笑话) 在 interview 的时候,我说我会说华语可是我会一点儿汉字。。。。哇，我觉得很累打这个 post。我需要很多时间来打这么短的 post。好吧，这次我就打这么的 post 吧，改天才打一个有意思的 post。

The new NLB at Bugis

From the outside, this building looks very futuristic and cool. Many people have complain that the design is out of place because Bugis is filled with heritage buildings. I went to the National Library yesterday after a frustrating window shopping experience at Sim Lim. I was totally not in the mood to shop so I left Sim Lim before I even properly started.

I took the glass elevator up to the highest level - 14th floor. As the lift moved upwards, I started to feel afraid because I have a fear of heights (more specifically - falling). I could feel cold sweat running down my forehead and my legs are weak. I tried to control my fear by telling myself that it was all in the mind. At the 14th floor, I marvelled at the view. It was quite good but abit limited. One can vaguely see familiar landmarks at Orchard road. The view of the city is completely blocked or maybe only when they properly open all sections in the library then can one see the city.

The library has gardens on located on various levels in the building. I only manage to visit the Level 5 courtyard. The place is interesting but again - view is terrible. There isn't anything special to see from here except maybe chiobu walking around Parco hahahaa.....

From my visit, I only like the exhibitions such as Singapore's history as well as on the development projects for Marina Bay. The Marina prject looks very ambitious but if the project is successful, that place so poshy. I would also wanna buy a home there if I have enough S11.

Coffee Bean, Starbucks and so on

These days I've been travelling around Singapore's CBD and shopping centers. Mostly because I need to go for interviews at the offices there. As the title suggest, Coffee Beans, Starbucks, etc catch my attention each time I pass by. The alluring smell of coffee leaves one craving to have a cup of ice-blended coffee with whip cream. But then ar, a cup of it will leave me eating rice with soya-sauce (Labi style - Labi is a rural farming area in Brunei where my father grew up. He likes to intro this dish to us if my siblings and I were to complain about mom's cooking so that we should be grateful... hahaha... :P) or tomato sauce (like the girl who gathers free ketchup from fastfood restaurants so that she could buy expensive fashion labels) for a few meals.

Despite my wallet burning deep these days and I can see butterflies coming out of it, I could not resist the temptation. :S ... I try to give excuse to my guilty conscience by thinking: "It's alright. I'll be earning my own income soon. Once I have my income, it will be alright." True no? Of course, after attending the financial advisory courses, I learnt that this is what most people think and it leads to unsatisfactory results. Majority of people spend first, save later. There are also many who spend future income (like what I'm doing..... eeee.. guilty ler...).

ANYWAY, let's not talk about finance. The more I talk about it, the more sad I am. Boh lui liao~ I realise there are many wants/needs that I want/need to fulfill before leaving for India. I'll make another post on this another day. Back to topic - Coffee Bean, Starbucks & others like Secret Recipe.

I wonder what the secret is in all these Ice-blended coffee. Can one get the same taste and texture from 40cents coffee mix with ice throw into blender? As I blog this, I'm starting to crave for a cup. Maybe I'm just a frap·pé-addict. For now, I will have to control my cravings. See no frap·pé, Smell no frap·pé, Drink no frap·pé.

Offer Concluded

Yesterday morning I went to Tata Consultancy Services, supposedly just to collect the contract then return home to read it thoroughly. Instead, the HR manager led me to another room to read the contract first so that I can clarify some of the terms in the contract. At the meeting room, I joined another potential joinee who was already reading his contract. I happily started to read my first employment contract. The contract seemed alright to me. I quickly flipped to the salary section to check if they are paying me what I requested for and...... THEY ARE. So I was very happy and could just sign without reading on. But of course, it would be foolish of me. What if there are some clauses that suddenly prevent me from doing something? So I continued.

When the guy beside me finished reading his contract, he started to ask me some questions regarding the job scope and length of time we'll be out of the country. In addition, he said that the salary was low. I asked him how much he was paid. He answered S$30k annually. I was like "You are a fresh grad also, you will be getting more than me and still not happy?? -.-" " He then explained about the potential salary he might get if in KPMG ($2k but will reach $3.5k in 1.5year) or PSA ($2.8k). Ok lor... I told him that the opportunity to go overseas is different mah and we'll be paid for our stay overseas. He wanted to make sure that the allowance package was high if he were to join. He went over to the HR to try and negotiate for a higher salary. The HR manager didn't give in. Anyway, he took his contract back to reconsider.

For me, I went to clarify some of the unclear terms in the contract and what the 13th month salary meant. I just found out that it is a common practice here in Singapore that most firms will pay 1 month's worth of salary at the end of every year completed. After clarifying my doubts, without any hesitation, I signed the contract. Voila~ CY is now "Trainee Engineer" at Tata Consultancy Services.

Tired day

I got up yesterday in a half-awake-half-asleep state. I was not very sure why I was like that. All I know was that I felt irritated because daylight had not break and I was already awake. I felt very tired while feeling my entire body being sore. I had interview at 10am so I forced myself up and prepare for the interview.

The interview yesterday was at CSA. Before the interview commenced, I had to take 2 tests - one on Java2 and the other on Servlets. During the test, I find myself being very restless. I could not sit still on the chair because my whole body was feeling uncomfortable sittting up straight. I ended up sitting as if I had no backbone. I spent about 45mins for the test. Most of the questions I do not have an answer to it although it was MCQ (tikam lor). The result -> 28% for Java2 and 30% for Servlet. Of course with such a result, the interviewer is bound to ask. She asked how I felt about the test. I told her that it was very difficult and that many concepts I was not familiar with. Java was suppose to be my forte but I've no knowledge on threading which was asked very often during the test. I suppose the job is more suited to CS students. Her comment: "Oh, this is the type of questions for Sun certified Java programmers".. Hmmm... ok. That means I'm not qualified then. Anyway, abit 不耐烦 already because I was feeling very tired. In addition, at the back of my head, I already know that I'm going to take up the TCS offer so abit bochup also.

After the interview, I was considering whether to or not to go for my lessons at the Prudential Training Center. It was nearing lunch time but I didn't feel hungry. Instead, there was a weird sensation in the stomach - no pain though. Just plain weird - like no appetite to eat. In the end, I went to Boon Keng mrt to help my uncle settle some payment and then went to Dhoby Ghaut for lunch. After that, I decided not to go for lessons. I went back to try and get some sleep. I didn't manage to sleep but I had loose bowels for quite some time. Later in the evening when it stopped, all I felt was my stomach aching. I'm still feeling this ache this morning. It is only when I lie down to rest, the aching stops. Food poisoning?

Another job offer

Today I went to the 2nd interview at Tata Consultancy Services. The result -> I have been extended the offer to work with them. It came as a sudden surprise as I thought that my previous written test and interview didn't go well. I called my parents to tell them about it. The first reaction was: "Huh? India again? The pay very low one wor... Go choose some other company". Not only my parents, I have another friend was also very concerned about the pay that I might be getting from this company. Fortunately, the HR manager clarified that I'll be receiving my salary in Singapore dollars plus additional living allowances when I'm in India. I've not confirmed my salary with the HR manager as I was not sure whether it was the right moment to ask. I'll ask her when I meet her again to get the contract.

At the moment, my heart is more or less set for this job offer. If all goes according to plan, I'll leave for India in early October. The trainings session is for about 3 months and after that I am very likely to be posted to Taiwan to work for a period of time OR I could be posted back to Singapore depending on their needs. I'm very excited. :D

@XP

@XP -> AIESEC Experience

Today I went for an AIESEC exchange simulation session at NTU. During the session, a presentation clip was shown. The clip was full of questions on why AIESECers are in AIESEC. I was able to relate to feelings asked by most of the questions.

Out of all the questions, this one was stuck in my head - 'Have you ever wondered why your friends could never understand why you are so involved in AIESEC?'. Everytime I tell my friends that I'm going out for an AIESEC event, some would respond negatively by giving disapproving looks while others would just question why? I discussed this issue with another AIESEC friend. He was also saying that he complains about the workload in AIESEC to his other friends and he gets no sympathy from them. Cruel?

Just to share with all my blog readers whether you know what AIESEC is or not, AIESEC has changed my life. This is why I'm still so involved in AIESEC. When I started my final year in university, I was quite lost. The thought of graduating from university was terrifying. I was reluctant to move on to an unknown place. I joined AIESEC that semester and was quite involved in the training sessions initially and backed out in the middle. I was starting to think why am I so involved in AIESEC for? Then came NLDS 2004 (National Leadership Development Seminar). I participated in the camp with the intention of just wanting to enjoy not bothering about other stuff.

NLDS 2004..... the turning point of my life. On the first day of NLDS, I had the opportunity to meet some delegates from Indonesia and Malaysia. The meeting to me was the first of its kind. These people are so energetic and passionate to do things. During group discussions, the passion of these delegates in sharing their ideas was refreshing and pulled me along. During dances, they would dance passionately and not care if there are no one else following them. This is proof of working hard and playing hard.

During the evening session, an external coach was invited to train us. He asked a simple question - What is your passion in life?. He made us think about it carefully. When I thought about it, I was like "Hey, yea o... what's my passion in life? er... start business? er... why? er... playing computer games? er... I don't know". He asked for volunteers to share what their passion in life is. I was one of the people called to share. I started by saying "I want to start a business". He looked unconvinced and probed, "What business? Sell what?". I continued with "er...Sel...." *"YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT YOUR PASSION IS! Think carefully again then answer me next time"*, he exclaimed and smiled. It felt like a large slap on the face and a strong wake up call. It was true what he said. I searched deep inside me to the answer.... and I have none. 2nd evening, another slap on the face - different coach, same question. I began to think about it seriously but till today, I have not reached a conclusion what my passion in life is. Nonetheless, through that experience, it has served as a wakeup call to me.

After NLDS 2004, I am more keen in pursuing my final academic semester in NUS. In addition, I was more open to the idea of graduation and going out into the unknown. Of course, this is my personal experience. Others might have other experiences which differ from mine completely. Anyway.... so, what is your passion in life? I strongly suggest that you think about it.

Ups and Downs

I was up last night till about 1am doing some last minute mugging on Module 9. I set my alarm to ring at 830am this morning. I woke up at 8 this morning feeling fresh and good - ready to mug some more for M9. I was in a very good mood. Joyfully I went to have my breakfast and left early for Suntec City. I arrived at Suntec City at about 1030am. Not many shops are open yet and the atmosphere was interesting. To be able to see shop owners getting ready for the new day makes one feel ready to tackle the challenges of the day.

Since I was early, my intention was to sit at one of the benches in Suntec Tropics Atrium (located between Tower 1 and Tower 2). Happily I opened my M9 '10-year series' and tried out questions. There were still a lot of concepts that I didn't understand. Suddenly, I realised that I had totally forgotten to bring my passport for identification! That got me panicking. The time then was 11am. I didn't know what to do. I considered taking the mrt back but that would take way too much time and I won't be back in time. So, feeling annoyed, I took a cab back - paid $8 for the trip just to take my passport. I cursed myself for being so absent minded. The more I think about it then the more I felt irritated. I mean I paid $105 to sit for the exam and now I've paid an extra $8 for something that I have considered pulling out from....

I mugged on cab unhappily. It was a horrible experience to read on a cab. As soon as I got down the cab, I felt nauseous. I quickly grabbed my passport and other important documents just in case then took the bus back to Suntec City. Fortunately I returned to Suntec City Tropics Atrium just in time. I had 15minutes before the exam started. In addition to this, I passed my M9... Yay! Don't really know why I celebrate though. I still have to attend product training sessions next week.

In other news, I got a call from CSA regarding an interview with them. This is the first time the person asked me what grade I got for the Information Systems Development project I did in my 3rd year. I told her "C+" and her reaction was like "Wah! Why so bad?". In my mind I was like "What the??? How can you be so straight forward one? Sh**.... S'pore kiasuism......". I had to explain what went wrong in the project and how we could've improved on it. She was not fully convinced but arranged an interview for me anyway. Hai~ Although I'm only in the process of getting employed, I experienced some office politics even in the training sessions. There was one guy who brags that he's from the top agency in the field. I mean "Duh!"... Don't need to brag all these leh. When talking, he speaks as if he is a level higher than the rest of us. Do I have to be like them to survive this cruel dog-eat-dog world?

My consolation

Gemini 31st August 2005 - "Don't even bother trying to get something done. It won't happen. But starting things -- now that's a whole other story. You're just raring to get things going. Rome wasn't built in a day, but that's how it started." Daily horoscope found here.

This reading sounds abit pessimistic. 'Don't even bother trying' <- how discouraging.... So, just to start things? The journey of a thousand miles start with a single step but no one said there would be pot holes along the way. I'm still keeping my spirits high though. Was just abit frustrated by today's interview session at Singtel. I wonder how the interviewer felt.

Akiramenai (諦めない)

...

Just when I thought everything was moving so smoothly and going so well last week, this week all crashed down. This sucks.

Closing Interview Session with Accenture

Today I went for the "Closing Interview" (the HR manager emailed me with the phrase as the title). I suppose the as the title suggest, this was the final interview. I was interviewed at the Accenture Technology solutions office located at Commonwealth (very near to NUS).

My interviewer started off my explaining the objectives of the interview. She said that the technical interview that I had the other day was basically it. The interviewer was satisfied with my capabilities. It is just a matter of choice now. As she began to explain the whole organizational structure of Accenture and the departmental structure, I began to sense something was not right. She was explaining things like "Accenture Technology is a separate entity from Accenture Consulting. This entity has been formed not too long ago. It is also found globally including Brunei." She would also ask if I mind being posted back to Brunei to work. I thought "Duh, it would be quite good opportunity."

Then the make or break question came. She asked if I prefer consulting or technology. Without hesitating, I stated consulting. I'm passionate about technology but not as much as I would to consulting. After that, everything in the interview went on about the expectations and the lack of freedom to shift focus. I understood her expectations and she understood my expectations. She said that she'll hand in my application to the consulting section and depending on whether they need people, I might get a chance or I might not. After that, we shook hand and bid farewell.

My second job rejection. This time my rejection was abit too fast I think. I should've given myself some leeway by saying that I need time to consider. However, at the same time, I want the get a job in consulting badly and not get stuck in development throughout my life. Ok lah.... hope things go on well. Tomorrow I still have an interview at Singtel.

Monday Blues

Today started as how many people would say Monday is -> Horrible. Well, the situation isn't too bad to the extent where I would ramble non-stop about it. In fact, it was just the initial part where I had trouble waking up at 730am just to attend the tutorials at 930am at Paya Lebar. After passing Module 5, I am left with 1 more module to clear - Module 9. This module is so shiong. Comparing A levels to uni then compare to this, I'd have to say the rule of indirect proportionality applies. In A levels, you spend about 1 and a half year to cover the materials. In university, it is reduced to 1 semester (approximately 3months). This course? 1 week. Superman leh all the people here. I guess 1 week because most are either fresh uni/poly grads (assumed to be good at absorbing information) or industry specialists (people who have worked in banks/financial institutions).

Anyway, more about today. I took a bus out to Buona Vista mrt as usual. The crowd of people at the mrt was expected because of rush-hour. Everyone squeezed in like 'packed human sardines'. Being a tall guy is disadvantageous because my arms had to be kept folded or holding the ceiling. Reasons?
1. Prevent accidents. If not ah, it is possible to suddenly hear a squeal then CY's face is marked red with someone's palm. (Probably the lady thinks there's a mosquito ... How considerate.. Haha...)
2. Increase center of gravity by using shoulder and arm contact on other people to stay stable. (Newton's 3rd law - Action & Reaction)

Well, my day wasn't too bad. During the tutorials, I received two calls for interview. One from Singtel and the other from Accenture. I'll be missing afternoon tutorials tomorrow and the day after because of interviews. My priorities now are on interviews and getting a job quick! But.... at the same time, I don't want to fail M9. How? How? How? Self-study for 26chapters in 3 days is suicide without an instructor to summarize. Ah... it's getting late, I have to go attend early morning tutorials again tomorrow morning.

Watch this space for more updates on Interview Adventures soon.

Funstuff

Your Birthdate: June 21

Being born on the 21st day of the month (3 energy) is likely to add a good bit of vitality to your life. The energy of 3 allows you bounce back rapidly from setbacks, physical or mental. There is a restlessness in your nature, but you seem to be able to portray an easygoing, "couldn't care less" attitude. You have a natural ability to express yourself in public, and you always make a very good impression. Good with words, you excel in writing, speaking, and possibly singing. You are energetic and always a good conversationalist. You have a keen imagination, but you tend to scatter your energies and become involved with too may superficial matters. Your mind is practical and rational despite this tendency to jump about. You are affectionate and loving, but very sensitive. You are subject to rapid ups and downs.

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

I was surfing around someone else's blog then found this. "I easily bounce back from setbacks rapidly whether physical or mental". This is true? Most of the time! The tougher things get, the more determined I am to achieve my goal. Akiramenai (諦めない)! I portray a "easy-going, couldn't care less" attitude? This one I think so but of course, despite my external attitude, I still ensure things are done accordingly. Akiramenai (諦めない)! Excel in writing, speaking and possibly singing!??! LOL! For people who have heard me sing before would definitely reject this statement. Or maybe I can interpret it as "likes to sing often". Now this would be true. Keen imagination eh? Well, when I am alone walking around shopping centres, I would day dream on various future scenarios ranging from career to family to leisure. On a side note, another friend of mine would comment, "Chin Yun ar! You mad ar! You think too much dy. You know.. you should become an actor". Anyway, overall this is just a 'feel good' article.

Note:
Akiramenai (諦めない) - Japanese phrase for "Won't Give Up" (Narutards should know better)

Just another enjoyable moment

Yesterday after going through interview and the Module 5 exam (which I passed. I was first to come out some more... haha...1hr), I had about 4-5 hours to spend before the Horror Show at Suntec City organized by FCBC. First thing I did was just sit down inside Suntec City and read newspaper. After that, went around and had a try at Secret Recipe. Ooooh.... The Marble Cheese Cake was absolutely deliciously creamy. I felt very 'sayang' to cut the only slice I bought in big portions ($5 for a piece... ouch my pocket is burning deep these days.... :'( ). Every piece that I took a bite on, I slowly played with it in my mouth enjoying and sucking out the flavour. Ah.... that was a piece of really good cheese cake. I craved for more but the hole in my pocket is too large to ignore so I walked away feeling slightly sad. At the same time, I was in a super jolly mood because everything seemed to go smoothly (although I didn't know my interview result).

Went window shopping at Carrefour - Lowest Price Everday! (which is quite true especially those that are put on offer. I mean where can you get shaving cream that costs $7.80 in Brunei, $8.50 at NTUC BUT at Carrefour, it's only $5.10) After walking around Carrefour, I had about 2 hours left to spend, so I walked out to the benches outside Suntec Tower 5. The first thing I saw were couples getting cozy with each other then I saw non-couples smoking away. The benches are positioned in such a way that no two bench are near each other. If they are, it will face a different location. I suppose this place is suppose to be 'lover's corner'. Anyway, I just sat down and enjoyed the environment around me. I was feeling over the moon, smiling from inside out (And no, I was not there waiting for a girl. Although I think, it is a good location to get one :P).

The weather wasn't hot. The sun was shining softly but mainly because most of the rays were blocked by the tall buildings around. The trees around the fountain helped in to keep the place cool as well. I just found out that the fountain is not turned on before 5pm. Anyway, back to the atmosphere, it is just very calm and peaceful. I could sit there all day without a care for anything in this world. Enjoying every moment there, I looked around at the couples, at the tourists armed with cameras looking facinated by the fountain and taking many shots of the area as well as admiring the wonderful architectural designs of the buildings around Suntec City.Of course, I didn't stone there for the full 2 hours. As I sat there feeling very happy, I also wrote down some points I wanted to write for my blog posts. Haha... which resulted in this post lor~

Accenture Singapore - My Interview

Yesterday I had my interview at Accenture's Singapore office located on the 33rd floor of Raffles City Tower. The office is AWESOME..... They have spent a lot in really ensuring that the name Accenture equates to something of high quality and class. I could easily describe the office with adjectives like professional, classy, chic, beautiful, smart, elegant, fashionable and the list goes on. I mean.... "WOAH!" ... No wonder people pay Accenture consultants $300+ just to sit down and have coffee with them. (Of course, listen to the consultants tell them things they already know. LOL)

First entry, I thought that I had entered the lobby of a hotel. The receptionist gave me a form to fill up and asked me to go into a small room near the entrance. The small room again... anyway, cut long story short.... made me day-dream. What did I day-dream? I'm somewhere on the other side of the globe on an assignment. I'm just settling the paperwork in the comfort of my hotel suite after a day's negotiations with my clients. Ah... then I snapped back to reality and focused myself - "I WANT THE JOB. I am going to sell myself like I'm the candidate for Google developer position."

After finishing the forms, my interviewer came out to invite me to the interview room. As I walk past the corridor, I can't help noticing but.... "Wah... telescope... wah... pinball machine.... wah... jukebox... wah..... interview room.....wah... flask..... wah......cool cup....wah.. wah...wah...". The feel of the office is very much similar to the main level of NUS Central Library plus the cool discussion rooms. Amazing..... I was just too awed by the environment that made me crave for the job more and more.


My Interview:
Interviewer: "So, tell me about yourself"
CY: "What should I tell him? Hmm" ... Smiled at interviewer and said, "Hmmm, what would you like to know?"

Interviewer: "Up to you. Just make your sales pitch."
CY: "Oh Sh**! Why open ended? Tell what? Tell what?" ... smile some more and answered, "I'm friendly, er.... responsible? er.... tall? er..... I don't know...."

Interviewer: "Hmm... is that how you want me to remember you as?"
CY: "Ah.... **** ... how how how??" .... smile again... and answered, "Haha...er.... " ... smile

Interviewer: "Ok, nevermind. Let's move on to the questions."
CY: "Sh**..... minus marks for CY..... there goes my opportunity".. just smile as if nothing was wrong....
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The interview ended about half an hour later.....Things weren't as bad as it started off. I was actually quite happy with how I presented myself throughout the interview.

The result? Well, as a jesture of courtesy for every interview, I will send an appreciation to my interviewer and whoever contacted me for the interview. I sent my appreciation note very late last night. This afternoon, I received a reply to the appreciation note saying that I passed Round 1 and will be informed of Round 2 next week. :D

Interview at Singtel

When I hear of the name Singtel, I think of something that is branded, classy and has quality. Today I went to the Singtel Academy located at Bukit Timah (next to NJC). I was surprised by the building. It is very old and run down. Ironically, this is where all the Singtel IT people work. However, they are moving to North Serangoon by end of this year. Maybe the building there is newer and more representative of Singtel's name.

Anyway, for today's interview, I am very reliefed that I did some last minute studying of my CS3214 textbook. I read up on J2EE and the differences between the entity and session beans. Questions were again asked related to those. I don't like answering them because it reveals how rusty I am with those technical stuff. It has been over a year since I last worked with the J2EE environment. The previous project was a disaster but I learnt a lot from it.

As for my interviewer today, he has visible 'black rings' around his eyes. I can tell that he lacks sleep. I begin to question if I would end up like him if I work there. Anyway, if I am successful, I'll be called up for Round 2 soon. More good news:
1. Interview at Accenture tomorrow!! (Finally! After sending 3 applications...3 times to strike?)
2. Daimler-Chrysler Internship interview soon? (I was rejected for the job 1 month ago... I received a call today asking if I still want or not. I was asked if I have read the job responsibilities because most people didn't and rejected them after they were called up. I suppose that's why after rejecting me 1 month ago, they are crawling back to ask. Hahaha...)

Change of Perception

After attending 2 days of tutorials, my perceptions and confidence in financial advisory services has turned very positive. Before this, or should I say long before, I always have a negative impression of insurance agents. Not only me - people around me also feel the same way. Almost every friend I meet with the exception of one or two who have been consulted by financial advisers instead of insurance agents felt differently.

The Singapore government has done a lot to raise and improve the image of financial advisers by passing the Financial Adviser's Act (2002). There are some strict criterias which financial advisers and their representatives must fulfil before engaging a client. The primary objective is to help clients fulfil their financial objectives and NOT pushing for a sale. I don't know whether I'm being biased here or not BUT my confidence for investing money in insurance has never been positive until I learned of Prudential. This company goes the extra mile to ensure that their customers are well-taken care of, through trainings and seminars for the representatives(agents) to train them on better customer relationship building.

I think it is very likely for me to join this industry if I quit the IT field.

Shopping! An unusual experience.

Weird topic for a guy's blog no? I sound so grrl leh.

Anyway, irregardless of what you think. You are still reading on so I guess it doesn't matter. After the tutorial, I went to Suntec City to do some shopping at Carrefour. Instead of doing a guy's shopping like what I usually do, I took my time to slowly walk around Suntec City first. As I walked along, I took notice of my surroundings and people passing by. Just enjoying my time I guess since I have nothing to do (study Module 5-Chapter 1-4 leh?).

I went to Carrefour to buy my necessities (ah... finally, guy's shopping style... phew). As I was buying my stuff, suddenly an announcement was made that sushi was on sale for 1/2 price. It is quite unusual right? I thought that maybe they have 2 sessions of sushi selling offer. One is now and another is at night when they are about to close. Not long later (maybe 1/2hr later or 1hr later.. I didn't check my watch), another announcement was made that Carrefour is closed for the day. I was abit stunned as I've not finished shopping. Anyway, I quickly made my way to the counter to check out what I have. I asked the cashier what happened and why are they closing so early. She just answered, "Company affair". ('???' filled my head... doesn't matter..)

At the end of the day, I managed to buy the things that I need as well as a new shirt for a bargain! LOL (-.-" ... CY... hai~)

Tutorials!

I went for tutorial today from 930am-4pm on Module 5 of Singapore College of Insurance. The tutorial was held in the Prudential Training Center located at the 8th Level of Singapore Post Center (Paya Lebar mrt). This building is amazing. I like the design of the offices and the spacious area available. From outside, it looks like a giant UFO. Previously, everytime I pass by this building I would think, "What the heck is Barang-Barang? This building looks strange."

Tutorial was conducted by one of the Prudential trainers. Although she was lively but the content of the course was dry so most people were falling asleep including myself. As like in NUS, the tutorials have tutorial project groups. My group members were friendly and one said she stayed in Bukit Batok... OMG I thought, OH NO I thought... Then I told her my address. She was not familiar with it which made me feel relief. Hehe...

Today I realised something (sth that is S'porean or prevalent elsewhere).... having a degree increases one's status and rank. It is not that I want to look down on others. It was never my intention in the first place. When my people ask me where I studied, and I told them NUS, immediately they gave me a weird kind of stare and they 'talk down' things. They didn't say where they are from so I asked and they would just say "poly" in a shy/embarassed manner. I don't know what to say for this situation. It is the first time I've encountered it although I was in a room full of poly grads for an interview previously (I didn't asked previously). In the previous case, I find that they are more reserved and timid. However, in this case, they weren't like that until they found out that I'm from NUS. I wonder what they are thinking inside. IF I were them, a possible thought would be "Heh, NUS grad ah? So what? I will do better than you in my career." Abuthen, this is me. I think I'm having these thoughts because I don't want to be looked down on. I demand recognition and acknowledgement. Hahaha.... Oh well...

Of course, after stating the above, I don't mean polytechnic grads are low class. This is why I felt weird after they gave me those looks. I mean, so what? Heck care the education level or school one is from! What matters more is how well one cope with the University of Life. Entrepreneurs like to quote this: "Do you know that only 20% of top managers have university degree while the 80% have only O levels or lower? The top university students work (slave) 12hours under them daily." Does this make university education obsolete? No. It is still important to do well in university because what we learn from university is not knowledge but skills. It gives us opportunities to hone analytical skills, writing skills, time-management skills, presentation skills, etc. I'd like to use AIESEC way of questioning and answering here - 'Are you studying to get good grades or preparing yourself for future challenges? It's Up To You how you want to spend your university life.'

Unfortunately, my university life has 'expired' :(

One step at a time

After making countless changes to my resume and cover letters, I am starting to get results. I am receiving more and more phone calls from potential employers. This proves how lousy and horrible my first few resumes and cover letters were. In addition, the first 2 interviews that I had taught me a few things. Some of the things that I should note on my next few interviews:

1. Speak with confidence irregardless of whether the interviewer is intimidating. I mean, what the heck! He might just be testing me out or forcing me to say what he wants to hear. I might not be happy if I work for such people.
2. When asked "Do you have any questions for us?", I should just say "Yes. When will I know the results of the interview? Are there any more interviews after this?"
3. Prepare backup copies of resume, transcripts and photo. This is so as to show sincerity that you really want the job. The HR manager can be forgetful at times so just pull out a copy from your bag and voila, impressed.

Anyway, hopefully next week I get more phone calls. (My phone bill is gonna kill me again this month.)

Big Company = Big Stress

I went for TATA Consultancy Services' written test and interview. I prepared wrongly for both. I thought that the written tests will be related to programming and the interview related to analysing my soft skills. Instead, the written test is exactly the same as American SATs and the interview..... heck... I was interrogated by two people whom I assume to have PhD in Computer Science. I'm doomed.

The learning point from this - study my Java well.

Suddenly Financial Adviser, Suddenly Not....

The interview with Nicholas Goh went by so fast that suddenly Nicholas just called in his HR manager to process my PR application form. After that, he set me up for 2 tests which is necessary for those who wish to work in this field. I paid $200 for the $210 test because I did not have the change. The HR manager, Merle was a nice person. She was friendly and helped me by checking out the requirements of the forms and told me what to bring. As I did not have the necessary documents at that point, I made an appointment to meet her again yesterday.

I went back happily thinking, "Ok. Financial adviser, an opportunity to try something new and learn something else. Don't worry. Everything will turn out alright." AS IF! There must have been something deep inside of me that is rebelling. Yesterday morning, I received a sudden call from Tata Consultancy Services asking if I would be free to do their tests and interview TODAY! I thought "What the heck? I've already accepted another job. Is ok, I can look for Tata next year if I want to." Again, deep down inside, I felt uneasy. I had an aversion to work as a financial adviser? What am I seeking?

Afternoon came, a friend/resume adviser of mine was online asked if I got a job. I told him yea, non-IT. He was shocked and I told him about the Tata offer. He said that I should try it out and my employment contract says that I can break it anytime. *BAM* This was the point where all my inner thoughts came out and I felt like screaming... I mean, $210 will disappear and I'll be thrown back into the point of job uncertainty... Anyway, I was in a dilemma for quite sometime and talked this out with Loon......... He just helped me clear my doubts a little. Deep down inside me, I felt like quitting the insurance job. On the surface, I give myself 'an wei' by sugar-coating the job opportunity. In the end, I called Tata back and begged the HR manager to send me the details for the event. After that, I called the Merle and told her that I wanted to withdraw. It took me quite some time to build up some courage to say "I want to quit". I thought rejecting job offers are easy. Although I'm not in the job yet but it is also quite hard....

At the moment, I'm jobless once more and thrown back into the world of uncertainties.

Interview Round 3

It seems that the HR manager liked me despite the fact that I feel the opposite. He sensed potential in me? From 269 applicants, narrowed down to 11 people for the first interview and don't know down to how many for 2nd interview and now finally the 3rd interview. I'll finally get to meet the director of the company - Nicholas Goh. I wonder what kind of person he is....

In other job hunting news, an IT recruitment agency has finally called me up in the afternoon. We didn't discuss much other than to verify that my application is valid. I wonder if they'll offer me some vacancy any time soon.

Weekend Fun!

This year I volunteered to be an Orientation Group Leader (OGL) for AIESEC's Recruitment Orientation Camp (@ROC) 2005. @ROC took place in Dairy Farm Adventure Camp (DFAC) this year. This location is spacious BUT NO A/C! I was sweating profusely throughout the camp and I could smell myself. *P U*

As like previous @ROCs, each group is assigned a country. This time, I was assigned to lead Kenya (Ma kay tu eh tu eh ba, Ma kay tu eh tu eh ba, Tu tu eh tu tu eh ba ba, Tu tu eh tu tu eh ba ba....). A brief description of my group members. I had a group of 10people and out of which only 2 are girls. One from NTU and the other from UTM. Last year, Kenya - also about 10 people BUT out of which only 2 are guys. This proves the concept of 风水轮流转? Haha... Anyway, camp started off with registrations and then a sponsored talk by Eu Yan Sang on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Our @ROC goodie bags include some herbal tea which have to be cooked by slow cookers/clay pots from Eu Yan Sang. Now I know that the grandfather of the current CEO of Eu Yan Sang is Eu Tong Sen which is the name of one of the streets in Chinatown. The session was very informative and explained abit on the basics of the 5 elements and the EYS clinics around Singapore.

After the talk, the Organizing Committee played music and immediately forced everyone to dance along. This must have been a shock/surprise to the juniors. Everyone looked and acted so shy. I remembered myself back then as well, I was just like them. So as an OGL, I had to lead them in the action. Monkey see, Monkey do. During the evening, @ROC night was glamourous. When the soon-to-be-elected Miss @ROC 2005 came out, 'she' made everyone else looked lousy. Gals, eat your heart out, I mean, this guy (possibly gal) has very beautiful legs.... Er... what the heck am I saying? Haha... anyway, Miss @ROC was just too good. Miss Indonesia on the other hand had extended her hand to touch (more like molested?) our dear friend ..... poor him.... Our poor friend also had a good view of what's ....er... under skirt.... (need to wash eye liao). If only I had a camera, it was definitely a Kodak moment. I don't know what else to do but to laugh so hard that I fell to the floor rolling. ^_^

After the event, sculling and partying took place. This year due to lack of budget and sponsorships, there was only a limited supply of beer such that they had to dilute the beer available. I didn't get to drink any... :( ... But I had lots of fun dancing with the rest who didn't scull. After that, I went to sleep at about 3am but was half awake all throughout. I didn't sleep well. I was aware of what went on around me such as people talking, insects outside.

I 'woke up' at 730am. Breakfast was just instant cup noodles which were sponsored. The day continued with more dancing and team games as well as info sessions. Before the event officially ended, most of my members had already left the group due to other commitments. They missed the 'ultimate' roll-calls presented by us seniors. Oh well....

I enjoyed myself during the camp, though I don't know about my juniors. I gotta find out from them.

Round 2 coming up~

I just had a call from Nicholas Goh & Associates for Round 2. I'm starting to feel afraid. Being in round 2 means that I have a good chance of being employed by them soon. Although no guarantee, I can feel cold-sweat. Why? Because I'm venturing into a totally an unknown field. Because once I get in, it is bye-bye IT (unless I take up some professional certification). The IT firms which I applied to have not called me other than requesting for more information regarding my qualifications. How much longer do I have to wait? In the event I do get selected for this job, I need time to consider. I don't have a pool of job offers to choose from. This is my first and only offer. Should I go for it? I'm desperate for a job though and more desperately need PR status.

I talked to a friend from BizAd regarding the firm yesterday. She said that financial firms are a good start. One can learn can network a lot and maybe move on to a better career. This seemed like a plus point that I can focus on. What should I do? Someone advise me on this? Should I talk to the career center people? Of course I should, shouldn't I?

My First Job Interview

Early this morning I received a call from a lady who identified herself as from Nicholas Goh & Associates. Immediately in my mind I was like "Woo hoo! First Break!". She asked if I was free for interview in the afternoon. Happily I agreed. She ended the phone conversation by telling me her company's address.

The next thing that came to my mind was "Nicholas Goh & Associates"? I've never applied to the company before. I checked my applications and guessed that it might have something to do with the "Management Executive" position I applied to from Jobstreet.com. An hour after the call, I found that someone has read through my application 3 times. As I have no idea what I got myself into, I quickly googled for "Nicholas Goh & Associates". Luckily, these guys have a website. Although I would have to say that the website does not contain enough information for me to understand the company better. All that struck me was "Prudential Advisers" in the list of employees. I was abit stunned and thought "OMG! What have I done? I'm putting myself into an interview for an selling insurance????"

Anyway, I looked on the brighter side of things. This is my first interview so I should go irregardless - I might learn something from this. I was right. I went through some personality tests and had a 'nice' chat with the recruitment manager. He looks young but I suppose he is about 35 as he said sth about that. Anyway, I felt weird when he spoke to me. He sounded friendly but yet... there seemed to be a weird aura emitting from him. I'm not sure what it is. I'm not sure if it is good or bad. I learnt a thing or two about what wealth management is from him. Bank savings interest - 1.5% p.a. then S'pore inflation rate is about 3.5%p.a. so every year, savings lose 2% value. He considers putting money in bank as putting it to rot. It breaks the conventional Asian thinking.

As for the interview, I don't think it went well. At the start of the interview, I was cool and confident. As it progressed, I felt over-powered by the recruitment manager.... or his 'reiatsu' (bleach =P) is too strong. I can sense my voice getting softer. I started to mumble. This is the first time I felt such a weird presence. Was it because he was scrutinizing every word I say and every move I make?

I wonder if I would get an offer for 2nd interview for this job after the interview. Do I want the job? I have to seriously consider... What about my IT related jobs? Why no reply so far?

The Interviewer VS The Interviewee

Ironically, as I still await companies to give me interviews, I am conducting interviews for AIESEC LC NUS. It makes me feel sad but at the same time happy. By conducting the interviews, I gained more confidence and learnt from the performance of the interviewees. If I had time to take notes, I think I would try to note down some impressive performances as well as those that I should avoid following.

I had different types of interviewees. Some were extremely shy and quiet while others would just speak everything that comes to their mind. Of course, this does not mean that those who are quiet are disqualified straight away. I consider myself as a fair and NEUTRAL interviewer. Even if I was interviewing my close friends, wo bu hui shou xia liu qing. I had several experiences where my friends bu shuang me because I didn't favour them and I voted for others. Although by right, people say fren fren must give fren face. I to help fren at times if fren really "cmi" unless desperate situation. I'll dig out every information that I need. Abuthen.... I must say that I'm not easily seduced by the interviewee despite their qualificatins/looks although there was a girl whom I must admit is quite chio..... *ahem* .... back to the topic...

My interview partners (those who don't know me very well) felt that I acted quite differently from how I was usually. They think that I'm quiet but when it was my turn to ask questions, my partner felt as if I stunned the interviewees with my questions. I doubt that I was torturing them because the questions I asked are more of their own experience. I was just probing into what they had actually done in the past. Asking questions about future outcomes usually result in model answers while asking questions about the past experience paints a better picture. e.g. How can you commit? Ans: I will quit all my other CCAs, I will put in all my heart to work for AIESEC, etc. Thanks to the training session held last Sunday for the interviewers, it has helped me understand how interviewers might think and why they asked those questions. This teaches me how to make better 'model' answers to my advantage during work interviews. Hahaha.... then again, this is just an ideal situation and truthfully, I can't lie about my past. My face skin isn't that thick enough and as I have expressed earlier about myself not supporting friends at times shows how objective(evil) I am. I have answered very truthfully during my traineeship interview. Nonetheless with this experience, I can better sell myself in the interview.

When will I get my FIRST job interview?

PGP Welcome Fest Grand Finale

This year's Grand Finale is the most organized of the 4 years I've been in PGP. The event is very grand and the opening skit performed by the RAs was great! It was a mix of Lord of the Rings, Titanic and Star Wars but of course they were just spoofs replacing the key objects with transponder. The jokes were all about staying in PGP, guy and girl behind closed doors as well as the maintenance and cleaning staffs. The best part of the show was when they actually pulled out light sabers and fought. The crowd went wild as they extended their light sabers. Anyway, the events after that was just so-so... Belly dancing, seen before during the previous welcome fest - same drummer guy and same *cough* lady. The Chinese song item wasn't very suited for the Welcome Fest Grand Finale. It felt more like a 'shiok sendiri' item for the performer. Most of the people in the crowd either weren't able to understand the song or don't appreciate it as people around were just talking among themselves rather than listening. Maybe in a different setting, his songs would be appreciated. Anyway, as no major performances can end till the fat lady sings, no major PGP event is over until the fat lady eats! =P The food served was delicious!

Anyway, every year there is a different experience for the welcome fest. Despite the formality and organized Welcome Fest of this year, I missed the 'Welcome Fest' that I had. It wasn't formal but it was well organized (thanks to the volunteering seniors from TCS). That year, every freshman who participated could actually feel the bonding with the seniors and the other PGP residents around. I still see some of the Vietnamese I met during that time. Although we just say 'hi and bye' but we know each other by names and where we came from. We remembered what we talked to each other about at that time. Of course, this is my personal experience and it belongs to me. Others may feel differently about this (as in they also felt quite bonded with the other freshman in PGP) and I'm alright with it because that is their experience and I have no right to say that they don't have a fruitful freshman experience. What I want to say is maybe Welcome Fest can be improved further if they had a buddy-buddy system that I experienced as compared to "I'm an RA, call me if you need help else go play with your fellow freshmen". But of course, the seniors from TCS are still around. Every year, they'll come down to PGP to look out for the freshmen but some how not as large scale as before. Maybe it is also because of the various cliques that are already formed such as AMCISA (looong ago), VNC (my 2nd year in NUS) and Indon group (dunno when ... just saw them gang together recently).

Job Searching

Since 2 weeks ago, I have shifted gear to send in more and more resumes for job applications. Until now, it seems that I have no reply. It is so weird. I would expect at least a reply for interview from 1 or 2.... The situation is starting to be a little frustrating. However, I'm not giving up yet nor am I exhausted from this. Today I just found 'another' online job portal WHICH was advertised to me SO VERY OFTEN when I was studying in NUS. The NUS E-jobcenter... Not the NUS E-career but the NUS E-Jobcenter operated by the NUS Career Center. The jobs offered here are more relevant to what I studied and are grouped as such that I can choose entry level jobs. In addition, NUS students who are looking for part-time jobs/internships can also applied through this webportal. I should've found this one earlier, think there were a number of relevant jobs that had already 'expired'.

Anyway, I have applied to a number of jobs through this portal liaoz. I'm really really looking forward to an interview soon. On another note, I'll be interviewing others soon. Hahaha... AIESEC work. Join AIESEC, Apply online now! Don't miss the opportunity BUT of course, IT IS UP TO YOU!

Matriculation Fair

This year is my 3rd year of matric fair helping experience. On the first day of the matriculation fair, I did not know what to do. Despite being experienced, I had already forgotten the strategies and tactics to lure freshmen to signing up for a club. In addition, I didn't have the mood to actually talk to them. I felt very not responsible/attached to the club that I was promoting. After a while when more freshmen came, all I did was just pass around the flyers.

On day two, when Ah Loon and I were manning the booth, I remembered how it was like to handle matric fair. I motivated myself to approach the freshmen but selectively. It was only when KY came that changed my work pace. It was his first experience at matric fair and enthusiasm of recruiting is in him. I saw the passion in him and was motivated further to work.

At the end of the day, we recuited quite a number of people and the following tips were noted for matriculation fair recruitment:
1. Think positively and be happy
2. Set target of how many recruiments to be made
3. Apply marketing strategy -> Customize and re-brand the product for each individual faculty/student. Talk to them, learn a little about them, package the club's positive points to suit their needs/wants

Anyway, after 4 days of matriculation fair, I find that my throat is now sore and I'm down with a cold. The selling points are ingrained in me. Fortunately, this is my last matriculation fair helping? From this experience, maybe I can do sales liao? Hahaha... maybe not.

New blog skin?

My blogskin has changed? I didn't remember clicking on the save button.... argh.. I lost my previous customized skin.. Anway, the previous one wasn't that nice also...I want to change my blog skin to something that I like. Someone teach me how to code those cool tables and colors schemes... Any blog coding tutorial around?

Graduation (My Long Over Due Post)

After 3 years of studying in NUS, I have finally graduated. During and before the graduation ceremony, people around me asked how I felt about graduating. Truthfully speaking, I don't feel any different from before. Maybe it is because I am still hanging around in PGP often and have yet to get a job interview. *sigh* .... I am very eager and excited to start my first full-time job. Ironically, just about a year ago, I felt insecure and scared because I know I was going to graduate. I felt like my world is coming to an end. However, as the semester progressed, I started to look forward at the exciting new possibilities. By the start of last semester, work was on my mind.

Commencement 2005 - I was expecting something bigger and more spectacular as it was the centennial commencement. Maybe my expectations were abit too high. Anyway, the ceremony was just like how a ceremony should be. Everyone wearing formal, act well behaved, silence throughout the hall as the names were read, clap boringly....... except for 1 of my classmates who lighten up the scene by hugging the Dean of SoC when presented with his scroll. That made everyone laugh and gave him a good applause. The loudest and longest applause went to a handicapped graduate. He was on wheelchairs. Sign of respect to him for not letting his handicap bother his studies.

After the ceremony, I was stuck in the hall because of the heavy rain. The UCC was so packed with people because no one could leave. Fortunately, the rain stopped about an hour later. Afterwhich, I went back to PGP to had photo sessions with my PGP gang. =)

Time Spent Back Home

I know I made a resolution to finish blogging 3 posts before the end of last week... It seems that I can't fulfill it. Before the end of this week, confirm can... =P

Well, my previous post was about my flight back home. The flight experience was cool! (which led me to blog such a loooong post about the flight) Anyway, the first few days I was home, I spent most of my free time sleeping. I slept early at around 10pm every night and woke up early at 7am every morning. In addition to the normal sleeping hours, in the afternoon, I would also take short naps of 1-2hours. I don't know why but it was kind of stressful to be sleeping all day like that. I don't really want to sleep so much but I can't help it if I'm tired. My mom didn't seem to mind me sleeping so much so it was ok (because I fulfilled her requirement for me to sleep early and wake up early). Instead she asked me to rest more. Maybe I was trying to catch up on all the lost sleep for the past half year.

My final semester in NUS was one of the most packed schedule semester I have ever had. I started off the semester thinking that I will sit back and enjoy the final semester, singing "Let it be, let it be". Ironically as the semester progressed, I worked harder and harder. Kiasuism has been ingrained into me. I know I don't need to worry too much about my grades BUT I felt bad and insecure everytime I ignored my assignments. I would wake up every morning with a shock and my body wet with cold sweat. I told this to some of my friends back then. This led to me making the resolution to focus on my assignments. At the end of the day, I guess, it was worth the effort. Looking back and saying - Oh wow... my final semester... I had worked hard and played hard as well (although it was more of play hard initially then work like siao at the end)

Anyway, back to the main topic. There are so many changes in Brunei over the past 1/2 year I was away. When I went back in December, there were a number of constructions taking place. This time I was back, the new buildings/roads are up. New hang-outs. New people around. However, somethings never change. Every Saturday, tamu at Seria is still filled with the familiar aunties and uncles, buying their weekly fresh groceries. Whenever I walk around Seria town, I would take my time to scan faces of people who are there. Once in a while, I'll meet someone I know. It could be a friend; it could be my teachers from my previous schools; it could be just shop-owners who have been running their shops in Seria for decades. It makes me feel nostalgic to think of it.

Most of the people whom have not seen me for a long time are have this same comment - "哇！你这么白阿". My GP teacher on the other hand commented - "You look like a typical Singaporean". I don't know how to reply to these comments. My GP teacher could be right as I peppered my conversation with lah's and lor's. My skin very fair? I think it has been fair since I was young especially before I was a teenager. Every time I engage myself in physical activities, my whole face would turn red. My best-friend from primary school, MK nick-named me apple-face.. Don't know if he still remembers. I don't know when my skin became 'thicker' such that I'm no longer apple-face. Abuthen har... 2 years ago, the PGP gang discovered my red ears... which I don't know why they turn red. They say that I am embarrased over those issues but I don't. If embarassed, my would be face turning red, right? It still remains a mystery to me......

Anyway, distracted again. Ok... This time I was back, I don't watch as much tv as I used to. I spent more time on my brother's computer though - playing "Feeding Frenzy". This game is cool! I have it in my laptop although I don't play it as often these days. When I was back in Brunei, I didn't get to meet up with my Brunei friends. I wonder how they are. All I know is that most of them are having industrial attachment. I managed to meet up with a friend who recently got married. He was a great athlete and the fastest 100m dasher from my secondary school. I think he ranked 3rd in the district. These days, he doesn't look as sporty as he used to and have gained some weight. Nonetheless, I still can't out run him. Hahaha.... I met up with KY and JH once in a while though to go yum cha with JH's cousin. Now, I'm wondering when is the next time I will be back in Brunei since there is no fixed holiday season for me liao once I start work. I also wonder what the market condition in Brunei would be like 3 years later....

Updates!

Oh my, my poor blog.... I've not updated you for nearly A MONTH! I wonder if there are still readers to my blog.... I've also been wanting to change my blogskin for so long now... :s

Well, there are a lot of things I want to blog about. However, as soon as I start my laptop, I can't find the mood to blog. There are so many distractions - anime, DOTA, mails, blog-reading, etc...Quick update on what I've been doing so far - graduation ceremony (Centennial Commencement... Cool :P), job hunting - sent plenty of resume to apply for jobs.

I shall make a resolution to blog the following before the end of this week:
1. Time spent back at home
2. Graduation
3. Uncertainties of my future now that I've graduated

Flight Home

It was drizzling in Singapore at about 8am yesterday morning. I enjoy the feeling of the dark and cool weather but at the same time, I was getting drowsy. I did not sleep the night before. This is because I played DoTA with my friends till early dawn. After that, I left at 6am to catch the first bus 200 out to Buona Vista MRT station. I carried my luggage up PGP road. The walk made me sweat profusely. KN who went with me was also sweating. We were very eager to get on the bus as soon as possible because we expect the bus to be air-conditioned and cool. To our dismay, the first bus that came was non-ac. We waited patiently till we can enjoy the ac from the MRT. It is interesting to note that they are quite a number of people on the MRT despite it being 615am in the morning. Most of the people are from the older generation but there are also white collar workers who got off at Tanjong Pagar, Raffles Place and City Hall. It makes me wonder what they are doing that early in the morning. On the other hand, maybe they are meeting clients for breakfast? Or maybe an online conference with their counterparts who live in another time zone?

Anyway, I’m feeling very pleased with myself to have chosen Singapore Airlines to fly home this time. My flight was serviced by a Boeing 777-200 aeroplane. This is the long range aircraft. I’m not sure why they are using this type of plane for a short 2hour flight. The only reason I could think of is that they are using it to fly the huge number of passengers from Brunei who are visiting Singapore for the Great Singapore Sales and other events. The plane is the largest plane that I sat in. In the past, whenever I fly into Changi Airport from Brunei, I would feel sad to compare the size of the plane that I was in with the other planes parked there. A small Airbus versus Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet or Boeing 777s – there is no way to compare the size. Finally, my dream of sitting on a large plane has come true! =P In addition, every seat has its individual LCD TV and entertainment system.

On my previous flight back home to Brunei, I was cheated. Although I bought a Singapore Airlines ticket, the service was operated by Silk Air using a small Airbus plane. At that time when I went into Changi Airport, I was very surprised to see why they gave me a Silk Air boarding pass. I didn’t think much of it until I went to the gate. As there were so many planes parked at Changi Airport, I walked slowly to my departure gate while admiring the beauty of those planes. (I love aeroplanes! In the past, I collected plenty of pictures of aeroplanes especially fighter jets). The planes parked were all huge (mostly Boeing 777s or 747s). I was thinking: “Wow! Do I get to sit in one of them?” However, upon reaching my departure gate, I was so shocked to see the size of my plane. It was dwarfed by all the other planes. You can’t imagine how happy I was to fly in a 777. When I got off at Brunei airport, I walked proudly out of the plane because all the Royal Brunei Airlines planes were dwarfed by the Boeing 777-200. It was at least 1/3 bigger than the biggest RBA plane around (a 767, I think). :D

Ok, back to what happened during my flight. It was a rainy weather but not pouring heavily. The rain was just drizzling lightly but visibility was still low. Therefore, most of the runways were closed. At Terminal 2, there was only one runway opened for all flights departing from there. All the planes had to queue up in a line to take off. I was very happy that I had chosen the window seat earlier. The view from the window seat of the planes taking off was magnificent. First, the plane would be parked there waiting to be cleared by the control tower. Once cleared, the thrusters from the wings will start. The sight of the water from the ground being blown back, displaying the monstrous power strong enough to lift the heavy bird. On a side note, I visited the Royal Brunei Airlines hangar before and learnt from the engineer that the force of one thruster is sufficient to blow a person *100 meters away. (*I could have remembered the value wrongly as this was more than 5years ago) There were about four or five planes in front of the plane I was in. I enjoyed seeing each and every one of them taking off. I think I can sit there all day. =P

After they had all taken off, it was my plane’s turn. As the plane slowly accelerates, the rain drops on the side window can be seen to trickle slowly. Then, the plane increases its acceleration more such that the force of the plane can be felt. The experience is something that I always look forward to. I love the experience of the force exerted on me and the speed of the plane. It satisfied my need for speed although I would have loved it if the force was greater. This I think can only be satisfied by a fighter jet. When I was young, I dislike flying. I had a fear that the plane might drop from the sky. Every flight, I would be holding very hard to the armrest and ‘biao leng han’. Minor turbulence or adjustment of the plane’s altitude would cause my heart to sink and grab the armrest harder. Once, I grabbed it so hard that I pulled the adjustable armrest up. It is then I realize that it wasn’t that safe to hold it tight as well. Nonetheless, I still held on to it to provide myself comfort. It was only 3 years ago, when I flew to Singapore, I realize that the fear is no longer there. I don’t know how and why it disappeared. I loved to fly in an aeroplane ever since.

Back to the description – During the acceleration, the rain drops trickled past the window so quickly that the window was dried quickly. As the plane lifts off, I was able to see the wings cut through the mist. I am unable to describe my feelings of awe and the view of this event well. I can only say that it was an event that I enjoy. Once in the air, we were above the dark clouds, there wasn’t any new or exciting to see. This is when I start trying out the in-flight entertainment. ‘I very the sakai’. First thing I tried, was the radio. There is nothing special about this because it is available in most planes. After that, I tried the video game! I was gaming for about 10minutes playing the classical SNES game – Blackthorne. I completed the game before. I got bored after a while because the game would pause whenever an announcement was made. Then I tried out the movie channels. To my delight, it was showing Hitch!

Although I watched it before, I didn’t mind watching it again. There were other movies available such as Robots but I preferred Hitch. It was heart touching and hilarious to watch Hitch again – Alex Hitchin’s role in trying to set up the slob but genuine good guy Albert Brenneman with the beautiful and rich Alegra Cole. Alex Hitchin, the date doctor creates opportunities for the ‘poor’ guys who can’t seem to get anywhere near the girl of their dreams.
“1 dance, 1 date and 1 kiss is all you get. This 1 chance to make it ‘Happily Ever After’ or wake up feeling regret for the rest of your life because she’s with the wrong man”
“At any day, any woman can be swept off her feet with the right broom”

By the way, I didn’t sleep on the plane despite planning to, neither did I sleep the whole day. I conked out at 8pm last night and officially went to bed at 9pm. I was just relaxing in my brother’s room then accidentally doze off on his bed. He chased me back to my room at 9pm. This morning, I was forced to wake up at 7am because I had to meet my relatives for breakfast. I think, if my mom didn’t drag me out of bed, I would have slept till 10 or 11am. I actually conked out again at about 5pm earlier this evening and had a good 2hours of sleep before taking a shower and eating dinner. I think I’ll go to sleep early again tonight. It seems to be a policy for me – “Come back to Brunei to sleep”

‘Cool’ Birthday Experience

First of all, I would like to thank my friends who organized my birthday celebration two nights ago. The experience was chilling especially when I entered the airconditioned r2 tv room after the fountain event. To tell the truth, I was surprised. I didn’t think much of what happened when KY switched off the lights in the TV room. I was concentrating fully on the game and didn’t give a second thought on what had happened. KY came over and said “Wah, zhe yang juan xin da game ah?” Even with those words, I didn’t pay much attention to him either and continued. It was only when the people behind started to sing “Happy Birthday”, I realize that they were throwing a celebration for me. Hahaha…. Good one. This is really a big surprise.

My experience in throwing birthday parties – First time, can catch people by surprise. After that, no more surprise liao. For my birthday celebration – last year was the ULTIMATE. Really original idea – Triple celebration, none of us three knew what really happened. Wah lao… I would like to congratulate whoever it was to get me DoTAing because I would be caught by surprise by the event. (My weak point – concentrate on game too much. =P) When they asked me if I was surprised, I answered “Partially”. As I was usually the one who organizes the birthday parties so I roughly know when and where it would take place. I had a feeling about it earlier in the day but totally forgot about it when we were DOTA-ing so much.

During the speech request, I said my speech topic would be “为什么你们不可以丢我下水” and NOT “为什么你们不丢我下水”. I was already preparing a wonderful speech on all the reasons why you should not throw me in. BUT! All of you have filtered out what you want to hear. Poor me. Poor my ‘bad attitude’ when I said those words. I was just trying to act cool. Of course, maybe it was also partially due to my poor command in Mandarin where I was corrected later – “为什么你们不应该丢我下水”. This would be less confusing. Basic Chinese 4 for me next semester! ….. Wait… I’ve graduated. No more Basic Chinese modules for me. Honestly, after 1 semester of not studying Basic Chinese, I can observe that my Mandarin is no longer as good. I can’t speak as fluently and I’ve forgotten a lot of characters. I guess I’ll have to practise often to keep it smooth just like English. Before coming to NUS, I can safely declare my English is good. Now, I don’t take care in using the correct grammar as long as the message is conveyed correctly to another person. On the other hand, I can say that I speak Singlish very well (which is nothing to be proud of, because I’m not Singaporean). I spiak very the good Singlish lah. If u all nid tuition for Singlish, I can b ur cher – Best in S’pore, JB and some say Batam. Dun play play orh. I also realize that I think more in Chinese rather than in English. In the past, I only think in English because I studied in a mission school.

Thank you all for the celebration. My birthday is actually on the 21st of June. My family celebrates it on the 11th day of the 5th Lunar Month which is why I have to be home before 17th June (which corresponds to 11/5 of the Lunar Calendar this year). Thanks for the wonderful sausage pig BUT NOT for the embarrassing pose. Wah lao eh you guys. I’ll get you guys for that!!! Grrr!! Have a good holiday everyone.

My First AIESEC Welcome Reception

I had previously written a very long post relating to this event. Unfortunately when I tried to save the post, I lost the entire post. :( ... Now no mood to type a long and detailed post liao.

Anyway, last Saturday, I went to the airport to receive my first trainee at 1020am. She took a flight from India by Malaysian Airlines. First off, I brought her to Potong Pasir. As this was my first experience, I forgot a lot of necessary steps to take. For example - I should've asked if she needed to change money, call home, etc. I just hastily asked her to follow me to a cab.

Afternoon, went to Suntec City, helped her get phone cards. Let her call home. I made a mistake of thinking that she would enjoy shopping. I forgot that her needs is to get all the necessities first. I was feeling guilty as I was walking around Suntec for a while before I realise our initial goal was to get her a phone card. After that, I brought her to Orchard at her request. She seemed bored because there were so many people and the weather was very hot.

Finally, brought her back to Potong Pasir. Night time, brought her to a party organized by an AIESEC alumnus. Very wonderful experience. I met a lot of interesting people - a very beautiful Egyptian trainee who can belly dance, a very charismatic Thai trainee who lifted the mood of the event, a very rude Indian who grew up in Canada, an American teenager who jumped off the balcony - fortunately landed on a ledge - he left everyone in shock - very bad joke. End of the party, I made new friends and contacts for job hunt. Bwahaha... I didn't realise the potential and importance of networking until now when I'm desperately searching for a job.

This post is so lousy. I'm just typing out points. I wish I had the passion and motivation to type the same post as I had before.

Updates

I'm not very sure what I've done the past week. I finally did send out my resume and cover letters which seems to be abit late. For this, I comfort myself with the saying that goes "Better late than never". I know I'm cheating myself but it at least covers my guilt for delaying the job search. I should have just checked out all the MOE Tuition grant stuff earlier. It is sad that I can't go on a traineeship.

Anyway, for the past week, I managed to get the information I was looking for regarding student's pass, employment pass and society stuff. I'm going home next Wednesday. Hopefully I don't get any job interviews for the 2 weeks that I'll be home else I might turn the interviewers off. Holidays getting too long liao. Most of my computing friends already have jobs. It's giving me some pressure to get a job quick.

Coaching for the future

Yesterday I attended another seminar organised by AIESEC. It is part of the AIESEC-Differworld series which I've been attending for the past few months. This time, the speaker, Mr. Manoj Sharma facilitated the session. He is a very charismatic speaker who has plenty of experience with the corporate world. However, one friend commented that it is people like him we have to becareful. They have the ability to use words to blur the line between fact and fiction. It can be used either to influence people to be better or worse. Anyway, he's quite a nice guy. The coolest thing about him is the way he treats us students as equals. After every session, there is always a feedback form for the participants to voice out opinions and sharing points of each session. He takes into careful consideration the feedback we gave and improves himself every session.

The session yesterday was on "Coaching". Difference between coaching and training? Well, his definition is quite straight forward but many of us couldn't think of the exact definition when he asked us. Organisations in the 80s focused on developing managers. Later, in the 1990s, more focus was placed on having leaders in the organisation. These days, coaching skills need to be develop in addition to the management and leadership skills. An organisation with a high staff turnover rate would not be able to make much money even if they can save on the pay increments and bonuses of long-term staff. Understanding the relationship deeper, new staff require training and familiarisation with the organisation before they are able to be at their peak productive level.

The main learning point from the seminar was again - Communication. There is so much to learn from him about how to speak/talk. We talk to people - our family, our friends, etc. We all know how important communication is among people to develop relationships and improve understanding between people. However, most of us would just anyhow talk - with or without purpose. With purpose but without a clear purpose. Talk all the time and never giving people the opportunity to talk. Passive listening such that the mind wanders off from the conversation. Some of the above list occurs once in a while for us. The two important points for communication is

1.Active Listening
2.Intentional Speaking

It isn't easy to do either. Imagine trying to give full attention to someone talking and not daydream. Being aware of yourself and your mind's situation. Intentional speaking is the most difficult for me. I usually find myself having an intention to say something but I couldn't say it out. Thoughts like - "Will they accept my idea?", "Oh no, if I say this, I might be the odd one out. People will laugh at me.", etc. Due to this, the first few words will come out from my mouth softly and then turn to mumbling. Is this some sort of speech deficiency? Maybe :P but actually it is more of myself not being confident enough to convey my intention. However, if the intention is clear at the beginning, even if mumbling, the message will still be clear. This is true if the listener is actively listening. So, another thing about going to this seminar is that it builds up confidence. My resolution is to have confidence in whatever I say. It may not be accepted by others but at least my voice is heard. Let others correct me rather than wait for the general consensus. I asked Mr. Manoj on why people like me tend to be this way. The reasoning is that I am quite"B&W" with issues. However, in this world we live in, there is no clear cut distinction between black and white. Instead, so many issues fall in the grey area. 'Do not be afraid to be wrong because there is no right or wrong' (Hehehe.. say all these, but I doubt I'll change much unless I keep myself aware of these 'concepts' when I engage people over a period of time)

I've always kept this motto close to heart - "if it is to be, it is up to me". The first time I heard this was when I realised my ability to pursue my dream of coming to S'pore to study. Preservering through the hardships of A levels and achieving the 'impossible'. Nothing is impossible if one dares to dream.

Hmm... I seem to have written an academic article here. Disclaimer: This article is written based on what I heard and my personal feelings after listening to the seminar. Any copyright infringement or harm inflicted is not intended.

Slow day... reminds me of Sundays!

Today was a very slow day. It started off with me going about my early morning 'rituals'. I went down to R2 tv room as usual and went about continuing all the adminstrative stuff I have to do for BINGO's bank account and also my personal cover letter. Lunch was wonderful thanks to JH. After lunch, watched an incomplete HK movie.

The feeling of the hot weather and watching this HK movie gave me the feeling that today is a Sunday (although today is a Friday). Every Sunday when I was in Brunei, my family and I would visit our relatives. We would have lunch together with them and then watch the HK movies shown on TV2 at 2pm. After that, my parents would chit-chat with my uncles and aunts. My cousins and I would then be around them, fooling around, making plenty of noise because we didn't really understand what the grown-ups were talking about. Sometimes we would be scolded and asked to go play elsewhere. So, usually end up playing at my uncle's farm behind the house. I had lots of fun at the farm especially when I was a little boy. There were so many 'toys'; which in fact are farming tools (well, I was an imaginative kid). There were also farm animals such as chickens, ducks and pigs (before the nation-wide ban). Sometimes for fun, I would scare the chickens silly by creeping up to them then shout out loud. This may be fun to me BUT my grandmother thinks otherwise. I got scolded by her when she found out what I did. Reasoning was because the chickens wouldn't lay eggs well. Anyway, after another national rule for 'halalness' in Brunei, my uncle stopped rearing chickens and ducks because of the need to prepare them confirming to the Islamic rules. It is not easy to sell non-halal chickens/ducks.

Anyway, back to today... actually there's nothing much to blog about for today. It's just a very hot day with me doing nothing productive.... almost nothing. I finished my cover letter!! :P An achievement? Nah.. my classmates already have jobs and I just completed my unsent cover letter and resume. I admit I'm a slacker. -_-

Exam results

OMG!!!!! I'm SUPER SHOCKED! I'm disappointed and I'm super happy. The subjects which I expect to get A or A-, I got a B+ and B respectively. The subject which I expected to get a C+ after the traumatic project which barely made the grade, I got an A-.... I'm laughing like mad in the tv room now. At least for the other remaining 2 modules, not much surprise. Kind of expected the grade. My CAP went up though. Wahahaha... But then again, doesn't make a difference.

I've finally made up my mind. I will postpone my traineeship till dunno when. Now, looking for a full-time job in an IT field here in Singapore. Anyone got recommendations or contacts? =P