Graduation Ceremony 2011

Yesterday's graduation ceremony was a whirlwind affair and I can only hope my pictures will turn out alright.

I was the last few to go up the stage as I was one of the prize winners and recipient of diploma with merit. Firstly, my heels were killing me. Secondly, my heart was thumping loudly as I was waiting for my turn at the side of the stage.

I handed over my card, and walked down the aisle as the emcee finished announcing my name and achievements. The director of business school congratulated me as I shook his hand and we posed for the camera man. Then it's over, and I was taking this big turn to go back up to the seats.

I'm glad that I managed to take some photos with my friends since it was so chaotic after the whole event. The place is too small to accommodate so many people. It's also the first time the buffet spread was wiped clean. I guess the guests and students must be hungry, as our ceremony was the evening session. I collected my new alumni card after trading in my matric card during registration.

It's too bad I did not manage to take photos with the lecturers. I didn't even see them.

I returned my gown, had a plaque done, bought a graduation bear - courtesy of my mother, and paid for the official photos.

How many times can you graduate from Polytechnic? How many chances are there to win a prize?

Indeed, this milestone in my life is something I will treasure always simply because of the experiences and memories cannot be gained through other means.

I daresay, I have no regrets choosing the diploma route, choosing Temasek Polytechnic, choosing the Business course. It was the right choice I made almost 3 years ago. There may be times I lament that secondary school is the best education period, but there are unforgettable moments in polytechnic too.

Graduated

Today, marks the end of a journey. Today, I graduated from Temasek Polytechnic.

It has certainly been a bittersweet journey for me. I have really work hard these 3 years and I finally savour the fruit of my labour. I achieved what I set out to do and more. To be honest, getting the Kingsmen Creatives Prize is a big surprise for me.

Regardless of all I have said and rant, there is a part in my heart that love what I have been through. It was a roller coaster ride, particularly in emotions. Every project is meticulously checked and done to make sure our standards surpassed others.

When all is said and done, I miss the almost carefree life I have in the last 3 years. I miss bouncing off ideas with my group members. I even miss the mad rush for projects to be done.

Thank you, to my group members, especially those in the later part of semesters, for all the hard work and great ideas. We couldn't have done it without each other.

POTC: On Stranger Tides review

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides is pretty much an awesome movie.

Johnny Depp returned as the likable Captain Jack Sparrow as well as Geoffrey Rush as Captain Barbossa in this fourth instalment. It certainly surpasses the third, mostly due to the storyline and introduction of new characters. I suppose the change of director is also a factor.

This latest movie still has plenty of fight scenes, shenanigans by Jack Sparrow, verbal sparring between Jack and Barbossa and ship jumping. The film also incorporates rich colours and the scenery is definitely a plus. It doesn’t help that much of the filming is done in beautiful Hawaii.

New characters such as the feared Blackbeard (Ian McShane) and Jack’s old flame, Angelica (Penelope Cruz) and creatures like zombies and mermaids help to spiff up this franchise. What capture my attention the most is the enchanting mermaids. It was both an haunting yet eerie scene when they sang before attacking the boat.

The way their tails move and glitter is really gorgeous. CGI has never look better. The fact that they are portrayed more to be deadly sirens that lure their victims with their songs, drown and eat them differentiate from the usual fare.  

 
What captures my attention is the new romance of two new individuals, the mermaid Syrena (Astrid Berges-Frisbey) and the missionary Phillip (Sam Claflin). They may be newcomers but their onscreen chemistry is definitely up to par. Theirs is a story that many fans would love to delve into. The last scene where Syrena pulled Phillip underwater after kissing him have many new fans crying foul because they want to know exactly what happens.

What else to say? Bring on Pirates 5!

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On Sunday, the family went the newly renovated Shaw Theatres Lido to watch Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides. This is my first time watching a movie here as usually I go for Golden Village. It has been quite long since we watch a movie together, all 11 of us.

It was not in IMAX 3D as one ticket cost a hefty $22. The theatre is too dark and I can hardly see the numbers on the seats, not a good thing. However, the seats are comfortable enough and the theatre we’re in is the biggest out of the ten.

After the movie, we went to Wheelock Place to eat dinner. The day seemed more like a Saturday than Sunday.

Shortsightness

It just proves the shortsightedness of some people, even those adults with seemingly visions, when they make such comments "served no useful purpose except to drain the national budget". Oh please. 

MM and SM are Singapore's special ambassadors and envoys, forging close diplomatic ties with countries effectively. So, how is it they never contribute in their titles? 


The contributions they made are PRICELESS. 


When you are dealing with cross-cultural ties and relationships, you do not send a "green-horn" or a newly minted minister there. Particularly in the case of Asia, do you think any random minster will be received personally by the Premier of China or Prime Minster of Japan? Even for the Middle East and USA, MM Lee Kuan Yew is always received by the leaders themselves.

In company context, this is the same. If one is truly interested in getting business deals done, one would send the best qualifying person for the job. You don't send a supervisor or young assistant manager because the other party would not treat you seriously. They won't even send their manager or GM to meet you, they will too send their lower-in-rank managers. This is the truth.

That paycheck cannot buy you the "human touch". That paycheck is nothing compared to what they did for Singapore's future. By using the amount on the paychecks as an excuse practically shows that those people cannot think big. I have said, and will say it again, money can't buy you individuals like Goh Chok Tong and Lee Kuan Yew. 

If it is that easy, richer countries would not have to suffer from brain-drain and lack of qualified leaders for the posts. If money can buy you security, Venice would not have fall. 

Do you think spending an even bigger sum of money on advertising Singapore would fare better than the irreplaceable human touch? It's all about "guan xi" and titles. That's how things roll. 

When that "touch" is the heavyweight MM, it shows the other world leaders that Singapore is serious about getting things done. 

With MM's charisma and reputation, I'm sure there will be many opportunities where world leaders would still want his advice, but with an official title, it's always a better thing. 


Yes, new minsters must take the helm. But that would take time to build up the amount of trust and reputation that MM and SM enjoy. 


A thought, he could be earning much more than what he gets if he goes private. I'm sure a few million is nothing to international corporations. CEOs are earning a few times more than what Singapore pay our senior ministers... 

Tribute to the Founding Fathers

The latest news came as MM Lee Kuan Yew and SM Goh Chok Tong decided to step down from the Cabinet.

Once again, I can't help but to lament the loss of two fine gentlemen who are the founding fathers of modern Singapore. I know that they are old, particularly MM Lee, and as a concerned citizen, I ought to take into consideration his age, but there is a part in me that feel that it is still too soon. Of course, if he is a loved one, I would want him to retire, for his own good.

There is no denying his massive contributions to Singapore and no words can extend my gratitude to where Singapore stands today. Money can't buy you someone as inspiring as MM Lee who love this country above all. Indeed, where would we, the younger citizens, who enjoy all the fruits of the labour the previous generation slave and sweat for us be, if we were not blessed?

I mean, he can always continue with his law firm business. I am sure he too will shine in that area. What made him give that up and dedicated his life to Singapore, its people and future?

What made these politicians give up their easier lives and help the citizens instead? For sure, it is not an easy job looking after citizens' demands. I wouldn't do that. There must be a calling which they found and I salute them for that.

It irks me so much that people of my age have taken things for granted. These feelings of contempt breed under a circumstance where everything is bright and fine.

Ignorance. Rude. Ungrateful. Whiny. Shortsightedness. These are some choice words which describe some of the young generation at this age and time.

It's too bad they forget the struggles their parents faced. It's alarming how fast the people can become complacent, thinking that all they have now is no big deal. It's only one generation!

My parents still talk about the good old days at the kampong and I can't see myself living that kind of life. Is this why this generation is dubbed the unappreciative lot?

I do not consider myself to be in the same category as these young adults. Heck no. I would draw a very thick line if I have to.

Sure, I have my grouses and complains, but ultimately, I never hate Singapore, its leaders and policies. I can never do that. I would not betray the country that gives us so much in life.

For the greater good, there are sacrifices to be made. MM Lee saw that, I know that, I don't see why others can't see that too.

Birthday Dinner

Celebrated my belated birthday dinner at Paradise Inn at Changi Airport Terminal 1. The mango sago is just so delicious!

And that concludes my 20th birthday. I'm already looking forward to the next.

Celebrating 20 years

Today, I officially turned 20. The big 2-0. Still not quite the adult as you have to be 21 to book a hotel room or go into a casino. Nearly there but not quite.

Thank you everyone for the wishes and gifts, even if it's just a message on Facebook.

Mothers' Day & My Birthday

On Saturday, after the adults had cast their votes, we had lunch at Bosses at Vivocity to celebrate Mothers' Day.

On Sunday, my aunt bought 2 chocolate cakes from Awfully Chocolate, one was pure chocolate while the other is chocolate banana, to celebrate Mothers' Day as well as my birthday. That evening, we ate pizza.

Today, the parents took a day off as my mother had a checkup near Orchard Road. I finally managed to buy The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide from Kinokuniya. And it's in hardcover, no less.

I also bought a bracelet from Pandora. I wished I had more choices to choose from, but the beautiful ones are too expensive. I got one murano glass and 2 sterling silver charms. When there are memorable moments in the future, I guess I could just add on to bracelet, which is supposed to be the whole point.

It's been a wonderful weekend and though tomorrow is my birthday, the days leading up to it are always better and full of anticipation. I'll like to thank everyone who have make this birthday special for me, especially the parents.

1 more day to my 20th Birthday!

Of Winning & Losing

Aljunied had fallen (to the dark side). So has Hougang although that was never PAP's. As much as things are concerned, the ruling party still remains unchange.

Although it is to be expected, I can't help but to feel upset for the PAP team led by Mr George Yeo, Singapore's capable Minister of Foreign Affairs. Yes, I may not personally know him but I know of his contributions to Singapore and its society.

Not only did he lose his MP position, he also lose his position as the minister. And this is a huge blow to me, or rather us. I can only be heartened to know that his skills will always be in demand.

I wasn't this emotional when any elections are taking place in other parts of the world. Does that means I am really maturing to become a Singaporean who takes pride in our own well-being? Too bad many people still don't get the big picture.

The next election will be the new generation, including me, and I will of course, vote for the greater good. It's still too early to determine, but I really hope, for the sake of its own party, PAP will stand strong and continue to work for the good of Singapore. Please, do not forsake my firm support for the team.

But, remember, first and foremost, politics is mostly just a game. Sometimes you win a little, you lose a little.

Cooling Day

Tugging on the heartstrings of voters. Playing the emotions game. That is what the various parties are doing in this leg of the race.

Today being Cooling Day, I hope that voters will take a couple of steps back, and think with their heads and not hearts. Do you want to vote for the opposition because you want to rebel like some angsty teenagers? Do you want to vote because you like someone better over the other? Do you vote because of self-interest?

Now it's not the time for this. Do not vote for some superficial reason like "I want to help the opposition". Oh? The opposition do not need your help.

Being serious about your vote goes a long way in ensuring Singapore's future and growth. Disregarding the past days campaigns and performances by the candidates, let's make this a right choice and not regret it.

The country's well being is of utmost importance and I'm afraid there are some citizens who will not get it. Now, majority of Singaporeans will get it, they will vote not base on their gut feel, but because the party proved to be exceptional on many levels.

No one is perfect but I'm sure ours is darned close. One cannot deny that. Even if perfection is reached, there will still be disgruntled citizens whose demands are not met. And that is exactly what somr citizens felt, unfortunately.

No cheap housing. No "world-class education", whatever that means. Not enough healthcare support. Raising commodities prices. Whine and complain, that's all we ever do. If you think what we have now is not to be appreciated, then you ought to be shipped off to some developing countries, or even "first-world" countries to experience what is it like.

See how you will like it to queue for months for treatments and surgeries. See how you will like it when your grandchildren are repaying for the house mortgage you own. See how you will like with no proper education facilities.

Are you voting for the benefit of yourself or for the greater good that is the country? Fingers crossed for tomorrow because that's all I can do.

Of Rallies & Elections

Today will the last day for rallies. Tomorrow will be Cooling Day. And the day after, general elections 2011.

I almost can't wait for Saturday to come.

Not only do I want to see what voters have chosen, I also want to see how badly the different parties are defeated. Most importantly, I am getting sick of people posting all sorts of political arguments on Facebook.

Once this whole thing is over, we can get back to our normal lives of relatively peace and quiet for the next few years. It is funny how the different voices of the parties came out only when elections draw near.

Next time round, I will be among the first voters to vote. Who knows which direction the wind will be blowing by then? If the ruling party does not step up to the game, it can soon lose an even bigger share of the pie.

But, in the end, what majority of the citizens want is a stable economy where the sun shines bright in all places and yet have lots of things to complain about. The reason being, a human being is never content with what he has, he is seldom grateful for the things he enjoyed now.

Liberation

Yahoooo! The deed is done! It's finally over! Never have I feel so liberated! This will be the one and only post to commemorate this day.

The comprehension was bad enough. I realised what photo caption is after the whole thing was over. What the crap? I don't want to think of it anymore.

The essay was another bad idea. The question I chose was "In this day and age of media, words are arguably louder than words. How far do you agree with this?" Hmmm, as I wrote, I felt slight amused and horrified at the direction I was going. I was freaking writing about politics in that essay!

I wrote about how politicians and governments post their ideas on social media sites and people will believe these without looking at the bigger picture. But ultimately, actions are always louder than words. The examples I gave was Singapore own political scene and USA presidency campaign period.

Woow, I can't believe I wrote that. Gods, I feel so weird out.

By then, my neck muscles were straining under the pressure. Thankfully, the interview was next. I finally realised how lucky I was. Imagine having to wait till 9pm for your interview!

The interview was in groups of eight. The article they gave us for reading was about gap year for University students. Some of the questions the interviewers posted are "In your case, do you think gap year is a good idea?" and "If you are the Dean of the Business School, would you choose between a student who has taken a gap year for travelling purposes or the one who took a gap year and work?"

I said that gap year is a good idea if you have the money to travel. And that I would choose the person who work during his gap year because he would have gain much experience and skills needed in the business world. Besides, the transaction between work and study can be quite different, and since he is determined, he should be given a chance.

OK, so I didn't exactly state it that way. I was less coherent than what I typed. I just can't think on the spot! Just like how I can't get my mind off politics.

I'm extremely glad it's over! It was more intimidating than I thought but I think I held out quite well. Well, except for the thundering of my heart when I was preparing to speak. I can literally hear my heart thumping in the quietness of the room.

Do I want to do it again? Heck no!

Fear Factor

Enough have been said on the issue. I know I should stop, but after today, I can be sure that I have conquer my fear.

There are butterflies in my stomach. I'm not as apprehensive for the test as compared to the group interview. Firstly, I am scared to make a fool out of myself. Secondly, I am not exactly a coherent person, I can't seem to think on the spot. And I always regret it when the whole thing is over.

In just a few hours time, I have to face one of my greatest fears, but no pressure. It is not a graded coursework. I won't have to see how badly I did for the English test. I don't even reckon I will see any of them again, with any luck.

It will only set to traumatise me, but no lasting damage will be done. When I am returning home after this, I will probably chastised myself for not answering properly. I will be disgusted by my atrocious spelling.

I don't need to have powers to foresee the future. I already know what the results will be.

Shivers

I'm going to lay bare my thoughts of what I think of this whole mess.

I will be really flattered if I received an offer from SMU, after the interview and test that is tomorrow. I would have literally hit the bull's eye thrice in a row! How many people can boast that they receive 3 offers from 3 Universities with a Diploma?

But if I didn't, well, it is good for me because then I don't have to choose. I have my sight set on NTU Arts and Social Sciences and it is SMU Business holding me back. Of course, I admit I will be slightly disappointed that I fail to perform during the interview and test but, who cares? It's their loss if they think I am not good enough for them. The chance of me choosing them is small too. Let's not call this a case of "sour grapes".

I can't wait for tomorrow's nightmare to be over. Anyway, the English test will be a good indication of my English standard, for myself to know more so than others.

If I can wash out my brains, trust me, I will. If there is a way to cleanly forget about tomorrow's deal, I will. Oh, how I wish I can just get through it! I don't want to think of the 'have-beens' during the journey home.

Jeepers

Yikes, the days passed too soon! Wednesday will be here and I have to face one of my greatest fears - interview.

For all the prep-talk in the world, needless to say, I will still freak out. I'm not desperate for SMU offer, for starters. Therefore, there is nothing to lose. So be it, if I screwed it up. I don't even care for the English test.

Furthermore, I have gone through Oral examination in my primary and secondary schools years. It should be more or less the same. Funny thing was, I was never this scared when I had the Oral exams. True, I will stumble during the discussions, but it was never this tough for me. Weird.

I am really scared to death here. I can only comfort myself knowing that I don't know the other interviewees and interviewers. If I made a fool out of myself, I just have to bear with it.

Grrr.

Royal Wedding Dress

The newly titled Duchess of Cambridge (Kate Middleton)'s wedding dress is oh-so beautiful!

It showcases simplicity yet elegance in this dress which was designed by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen.

I love the intricate and delicate designs for her sleeves and the lovely, gentle pleated skirt. I too love the sheer veil she wore with the tiara lent by the Queen. Her overall look is modern, chic and natural with minimal accessories.

I like the saying that goes "Nobody does pomp and parties like the British". How true is that? I can literally feel the waves of emotions from the hundreds of thousands well-wishers that gathered along the procession route and many more in other parts of London and Britain. It certainly is a gigantic party.

As I watched the coverage by BBC, I couldn't help but wish to be there. One can't help but to get draw into the appeal of the royal wedding of the century. The atmosphere is more than high and I'm sure everyone is giddy with excitement and anticipation. There is something very memorising and enchanting about being part of a 21st century royal fairy-tale wedding.

Amid the gloom and doom surrounding the world, this is indeed joyous occasion as we witnessed the union of a happy couple. Everyone needs a little romance and perfection sometimes.