Intercultural communcation

My close friends in junior college class were, like myself, from secondary schools made up of Chinese student population. As such, we were oblivious to ethnic culture differences.

During a lunch break, we were sitting at our class bench, complaining about the long time table on Friday with a 4 hours break in between lessons. All of us felt that it is a waste of time to have such a long break and would rather shorten the break so that we could be dismissed earlier. At this point in time, I noticed that Haikal, our Malay classmate who was also sitting at the class bench was staring at us, looking displeased.

On another occasion, my clique was making our way to the canteen for lunch and we met Haikal. Out of goodwill and courtesy, I asked Haikal if he would like to join us for lunch. He turned down my invitation coldly and walked away.

We could not understand why he was so aloof then until James, our class chairperson who overheard our conversation, reminded me that it was the fasting month so it is impolite to ask Haikal for lunch. He also explained that Haikal needs to go to the mosque for his prayers on Friday which is why we have a long break between lessons.

James’ words made me realize how ignorant and insensitive I had been towards other ethnic cultures. Through this incident, I learnt to appreciate the importance of recognizing and showing respect for cultural differences which is essential for anyone living in multiracial society like Singapore.

Biodata

My name is Xin Wei. I am a honours year student studying in National University of Singapore (NUS) majoring in Chemistry. I have chosen to work on the final year project entitled “Synthesis of novel Molybdenum complexes for catalysis” as I am marveled by the wide applications of transition metal compounds. My questioning mind sets me to explore on this area of inorganic Chemistry.

Since young, I have been very interested to teach. In my secondary school years, I took part in the peer tutoring Scheme by the Mathematics department. I took time after class to tutor my peers who were academically weaker in Mathematics and derived satisfaction when my peers’ results improved under my tutoring. My fervent desire to teach made me take up the job as a private tutor and relief teacher during my holidays.

I also have the passion for dance which was my co-curricular activities (CCA) in secondary school. While I did not have any dance background prior to this, I worked harder than my peers who had dance background. My determination and endurance enabled me to master the dance techniques eventually and earn myself a chance to participate in Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) Dance competition through the school audition. Through my CCA, I recognised the importance of teamwork which leads my school to secure Gold medal in the SYF dance competition.

I believe that life is full of uncertainties and hence, it is important to live to the fullest.

Job Application Letter

Chan Xin Wei
Blk 124 Bukit Batok West Ave 1
#10-227, Singapore 650124
Mobile: 8222 1535
E-mail: xinwei@hotmail.com

6 September 2009

The Human Resource Manager
Science Hub
Blk 233 Bukit Batok East Ave 5 #01-43
Singapore 650233

Dear Sir / Madam

Re: Application for a Science Teacher position

I am writing in response to your advertisement dated 3 September 2009 in www.jobscentral.com.sg for the position of a Science Teacher. I am very interested in filling the position as I can meet the requirements and spectrum of the job based on my university education and my past experience in relief teaching and tutoring.

I will graduate in July 2010 and will be awarded a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Chemistry by the National University of Singapore (NUS). While at NUS, I also read courses offered by the departments of Mathematics and Pharmacy to broaden my knowledge on Science.

You asked for a Science graduate who is approachable and able to interact with children and teenagers effectively and comfortably, and I am one. My relief teaching experience in junior college has enabled me to develop strong interpersonal and communication skills through interaction with my students and colleagues. You also mentioned that a positive attitude is necessary. I believe that I possess this positive attitude which explains why I was asked to do relief teaching again by the same school.

You also stated that the candidate you are looking for must be proficient with secondary science syllabus which I am familiar with since I was giving tuition to both secondary school and junior college students. Hence, I am not only confident of teaching secondary school Chemistry but I am also capable of facilitating the transition from secondary school to junior college Chemistry. In addition, I have performed many hands-on experiments independently and performed analysis after the laboratory sessions. Hence, I am also capable to teaching the students the theory behind laboratory work. In addition, I am also a dedicated worker who is willing to commit to work on weekends.

I am conscientious and self motivated worker with an enthusiasm to motivate and create the passion in science in the children and teenagers which is a valuable trait that is desired in a Science teacher. I would like to put my experience, academic achievements and communication skills to work in a tuition centre like yours.

I would welcome an opportunity to discuss with you some strategies I have planned out to stretch student’s potential in science to the maximum. I can be reached at the phone number and email address indicated in the enclosed resume. I look forward to receiving your favorable reply.

Thank you very much for your kind attention.

Yours Sincerely,



Chan Xin Wei (Miss)

Encl: Resume



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(taken from: http://jobscentral.com.sg/viewSimpleProfile.php?eid=35539&jid=180354)