Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Job advertisement

Thanks Ms Lim a lot for reminding me to post the job ad to blog post ^^


The Learning Lab
 Client Ambassadors
 Mountbatten Square,United Square
 Monday, January 17, 2011
 Wednesday, February 16, 2011 

http://www.thelearninglab.com.sg/images/psle2007.jpg

Shape the future with us.

The Learning Lab runs premium learning programmes in English, Mathematics and Science at primary and secondary school levels. We are committed to creating our own distinctive brand of education that ensures both academic excellence and world-readiness.

We take pride in nurturing the next generation of leaders by cultivating each student’s unique talents and abilities. We aim to take each child on an exciting learning journey, and we are willing to go the extra mile.

We are looking for the very best.

Joining the private education sector translates to greater flexibility and an accelerated progress track.

Make your journey with us today and start shaping the future.
Responsibilities


·  Accelerated client management track
·  All disciplines of study
·  Exceptional people & project management skills in a front office environment
·  Starting in comm centre & front desk, developing into planning & management functions
·  Entry salary $2,500, premium for relevant experience

Requirements


Please email your resume to hr@thelearninglab.com.sg
For more information, please visit our website at
www.thelearninglab.com.sg
Please quote the reference no. NUS2008630CA in your application

The Learning Lab
NURTURING FUTURE LEADERS®

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Application letter

Vo Huynh Phu Khanh, Kelvin
Block 30, #B-C, 27 Prince George’s Park Residences
Singapore, S118425
___________________________________________________________________________________January 31st, 2011

The Learning Lab
Mountbatten Square, United Square #03-03
101 Thomson Road
Singapore 307591

Dear Recruiting Manager,

I am writing to respond to your job advertisement on NUS e-job center. I am now a second year Applied Chemistry student specializing in Medicinal Chemistry. Working in lab is one of my favorite things, especially working in lab to teach children and enhance their interest towards science really makes me excited and inspired. Therefore, I am writing to apply for a full-time position as a client ambassador in The Learning Lab.
During my first two years in NUS, I have attempted to gather theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills through all the chemistry and pharmacy modules. I have really enjoyed all the benefits together with challenges during the courses. Despite the first obstacles in communication and different academic levels, I endeavored to overcome and build a rigid background for myself in theoretical organic synthesis, drug discovery and analytical chemistry as well as get familiar with basic laboratory skills such as: TLC, column chromatography, gas chromatography, doing extraction and separation, and conducting different chemical reactions. In addition to that, I have learnt how to work in deadline-oriented environment and get well-prepared in order to be able to solve the sudden problems originated during lecture, tutorial or laboratory session.

Besides studying at university, I have also taken part in some Co-Curricular Activities during my first two years. I’m now holding the position as Vice Director for VietnamJUMP – a community service project aiming at improving the poor’s lives in underprivileged areas in Vietnam. We try to raise fund and seek for sponsorship to help build a kindergarten room in Vietnam and teach children about health, safety awareness. Concurrently, I am a volunteer for World Model of United Nations – WorldMUN, a conference with 2000 delegates from 270 universities in more than 65 countries. Working in such projects really improved my team-working skills and experience. In addition, I learnt how to negotiate to solve conflicts and maintain the good relationship among team members. My ability of strategic planning and working under pressure was enhanced as well.

This is the first time I apply for a full-time position, though, with my enthusiasm, high commitment and what I obtained during the first two years, I believe that I will overcome the difficulties I might face. Therefore, this job would be a great chance for me to experience and explore about my major. I will finish my final exam in May, 2011 and can commit to the job from June onwards.

I have enclosed a copy of my curriculum vitae for your review. I very much look forward to the opportunity for further discussion on the position with you and I would be glad to come for an interview any time at your convenience. Should you need any more information, I can be reached at (+65) 8765 4321 or kelvin@es2007s.nus.edu.sg.

I am very grateful for your precious time and greatly appreciate your consideration.

Yours faithfully,

Vo Huynh Phu Khanh, Kelvin

Monday, February 7, 2011

An argument between mom and son

In daily life, when people communicate to each other, they may either agree or disagree to the others' ideas/actions. Sometimes, there are situations in which they neither support or object. However, in this post, we won't touch that aspect. Generally, when people disagree with anyone, they may choose to keep silent or try to argue to convince that their own opinions are correct, the others shouldn't act/say like this or that, etc. If a compromise is not reached, a conflict most probably occurs. Let me tell you one of such situation which happened recently between me and my mom.

Around a week ago, I had a phone call back to my family in Vietnam. The main content of the call was my desire to switch my course from Chemical Science to Chemical Engineering. By the way, I am now a student in Drug - Applied Chemistry. Initially, everything seemed not a big trouble as I told my parents that I were then considering whether I should do so but most likely, I would do it.

2 days ago, I made a call again and this time, there was a big argument. My mom insisted that I had to pursue this course and did not allow me to change my major. She told me that the decision to go to Applied Chemistry belonged to me after I failed to get admitted to Pharmacy. Therefore, I shouldn't have any change at this point of time. She personally preferred me to complete this course as she wanted me to go for higher education in Pharmacy or Medicinal Chemistry. One more important issue is the financial one. Currently, I'm holding ASEAN Scholarship. The change in major may result in the reconsideration of the scholarship and loss of it. Given that situation, there will be a financial burden on my family.

In my point of view, changing major isn't a terrible thing but a good choice. Switching to Chemical Engineering, I have chance to be more exposed to real industry. I could choose any among Oil and Gas, Pharmaceutical, Chemical Process, or R&D. After graduating, I could go to work immediately or think of applying for Master or PhD while going for Master and PhD is the only choice for Science graduates if I really want to receive high salary.

We really had a big argument. I told mom that I would do it regardless mom and dad agreed or not as it would affect my life. I now should have my own opinion and my choice for my life. Mom, in the contrast, remained her viewpoint and did not allow me to do so. Well, it was terrible, indeed.

Nevertheless, I decide not to switch my major any more as I won't get enough financial aid from Tuition Grant which will offer only 2 more years if I successfully change the course. But the conflict isn't completely resolved. Perhaps it'll take a long time for the conflict to be solved. Anyway, I just think that the way I expressed my idea wasn't so appropriate. Maybe I need to have another way of approach next time when I have something I think that parents won't accept it at first sight. Well, what do you think I should and shouldn't do ?