Whew

Well, I guess my peer teaching group is finally done with our first assignment. And I would say it would not have been possible if not because of my great team mates, Ho Zong and Kar Liang. :) It is definitely intimidating working with people much older than me. But I've learnt pretty much too.

Comparing my maturity level with theirs, I've realized that I've to start acting more like an adult. Ever since the first day I stepped into NUS, I had a real culture shock. People were mugging hard on the first day already, and the school system was so independent. I could blame it on MOE, which is always making sure students follow their system over the years. But I've decided that hopefully I will take up more responsibility and more control over my next few years in NUS.

Judging by my performance on today's presentation, I was a little disappointed with it. Though some comments were a tad bit harsh, but I guess I'm definitely still learning, and I'm striving to do better for the next one. :D

Why Effective Communication is Important To Me

Communication is part of everyone's daily life. Hence, it is essential for us, social beings, to do so effectively. In my opinion, communication is a crucial part in defining a person. In one's daily life, communication means dealing with a conflict, motivating a team, expressing your opinion and understanding others’ opinion. To us students, it would define our working lives, our social lives and future. Hence, losing effectiveness in these areas could have drastic effects.

Facebook and Twitter have become part of our vocabulary. They help bring everyone a step closer to understanding each other better. Our world is getting increasingly globalized, but yet there is common miscommunication between us. And miscommunication could lead to torn relationships between us.

I would admit that I have faced several communication breakdowns between friends and family. One such would be religious differences that cause such breakdown. I remember simply saying “Merry Christmas” to a Muslim friend was a mistake. Luckily she did not take it to heart, but explained to me the reason. Two words itself could cause a misunderstanding between people. Therefore, I feel it is essential that bridging any miscommunication unintended could make or break a person’s first impression of you.

I have also come to learn that effective communication also does not just mean expressing yourself well, but more importantly, listening. The me in the past, always wanted people to hear my opinions but yet I have realized that listening to people’s feelings and opinions help me to understand them better and build greater friendships. It is important that we show interest in people’s opinions – even though sometimes I fail to do so myself!

In conclusion, I feel that effective communication is important to me because it partly defines who I am – my relationship with family and friends and future!