My Undergraduate experience
Hello Reader,
I want to reflect on my journey at Curtin Singapore, hoping it will offer prospective students a glimpse into the enriching environment they can expect, allow current students to appreciate the unique aspects of their educational experience, and evoke fond memories for alumni who have walked these halls before me.
First Impressions
First Day Excitement
My first day at Curtin Singapore was filled with excitement as I stepped into a new environment. The campus was bustling with students exploring their surroundings, engaging in conversations in the walkways, and familiarizing themselves with the new environment. The vibrant atmosphere filled me with anticipation and curiosity about what lay ahead.
Blackboard Troubles
However, the initial excitement was soon tempered by a minor setback: my Blackboard was not registered for the first week. This hiccup made it challenging to access course materials and stay on top of assignments, but it also taught me early on the importance of adaptability and seeking help when needed.
Adapting to a New Teaching Style
Distinct Teaching Style
The teaching style at Curtin Singapore was distinctly different from the local education system I had been exposed to. This new approach required me to adjust my learning methods as the assignments were more open-ended, sparking analytical thinking and encouraging a holistic view of topics. While the content was supplemented and guided through classes, a lot of learning came from independent research.
Seeking Feedback and Adaptation
To improve my learning, I recognized the importance of constantly seeking feedback and reviewing marking rubrics to improve future assignments.
One of my modules in the first trimester was particularly instrumental in helping me adapt to the methods of citations, writing, and presentation skills expected at Curtin.
Academic Journey
Module Load
A typical trimester included four modules, which demanded a significant amount of dedication and time management.
However, to accommodate my business internship module as a standalone and focus on it without disruption, I made the decision to overload two trimesters, taking five modules per trimester. This decision, though challenging, was crucial for my academic and professional growth.
Time Management and Prioritization
The increased workload taught me valuable lessons in time management and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines. Balancing multiple modules required meticulous planning and the ability to stay organized amidst a hectic schedule.
While the assignments may have appeared daunting, consistent and structured efforts helped manage the workload effectively, ensuring deadlines were met while producing quality work. Staying on top of tasks and having a passion for the subject matter were key.
Diverse and Inclusive Environment
Cultural Diversity
The demographics of Curtin Singapore were incredibly diverse, with many international students. This multicultural environment allowed me to immerse myself in different cultures, learn from various perspectives, and establish various connections with people. The diversity enriched my educational experience and broadened my worldview.
Group Projects and Collaboration
Abundant Group Projects
Curtin's emphasis on group projects provided ample opportunities to learn about teamwork and collaboration. Working with peers from different backgrounds and disciplines helped me understand how to contribute effectively in a group setting.
Conflict Resolution and Documentation
Group projects weren't always smooth sailing. I faced disagreements with team members who resisted setting deadlines or prioritizing tasks. These challenges taught me how to adjust timelines, manage expectations, and resolve conflicts efficiently. I also learned the importance of thorough documentation to keep the team on track and accountable.
Extracurricular Activities
Curtin Singapore also offered various clubs and societies to facilitate extracurricular activities for students. While I was not part of any due to my external activities, I saw the value in clubs such as the Curtin Community Service Club. I saw friends enjoying themselves and contributing to sustainable efforts in making our environment a better place.
Supportive Faculty
The lecturers at Curtin Singapore were generally very supportive, readily sharing their extensive knowledge and experiences. Their guidance helped me focus my efforts on assignments and provided valuable insights into the subjects studied.
Switching to a Business Internship Module
By default, the module "Enhancing Your Business Mind" is designed to teach students corporate skills and help them find their career path. However, I felt that an internship would be more valuable in comprehending my academic learnings. Therefore, I requested to switch to a business internship module, interviewed for the position, and secured an internship role at Zuellig Pharma. This hands-on experience was instrumental in bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application, significantly enhancing my understanding of supply chain intricacies.
Conclusion
Reflecting on my time at Curtin Singapore, I am grateful for the diverse experiences and challenges that shaped my undergraduate journey. From adapting to a new teaching style and managing a heavy workload to navigating group dynamics and embracing cultural diversity, each experience contributed to my growth as a student and an individual. The decision to pursue an internship at Zuellig Pharma further enriched my learning, providing practical insights that complemented my academic studies.
As I move forward, I carry with me the lessons learned and the memories made during this transformative period of my life. I look forward to seeing new and existing students immerse themselves in and appreciate the environment and opportunities available at Curtin Singapore. By doing so, they will not only improve themselves academically, but also personally and professionally.
The vibrant campus life, supportive faculty, and diverse community will offer a wealth of experiences that will undoubtedly enrich their journey as it did mine.
Thank you for reading!
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