oh wells..

While doing research for this blog, I was shocked to realise that there’s more than 160 definitions for the word culture! To me, the one that makes the most sense is to define it as, a set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that characterizes an institution, organization or group. One of the most obvious ways to observe a contrast of culture is to look at different country. From obvious differences such as language, race and religion, to the not so obvious ones such as behaviours. As someone so used to the typical life of living in Singapore, when travelling, it’s unavoidable to face with some culture shock.

A few years ago, my family and I went on a trip to Korea. The very first culture shock is of course the language. It has never been so difficult to communicate with others. Thank god there’s still the universally known calculator for me to use when bargaining with the shop owners, the wonders of sign language when asking simple questions. Those are actually stuff that we kind of expected even before arriving there. However, with regards to behaviour differences, that’s something we never knew what to expect.

While walking around the malls, this guy and me happens to nudged into each other, I wanted to apologize, however, he just continued walking as if nothing happened. In my mind I was like, “probably he’s in a rush”. I ignored what happen and continued to walk around. A while later, there’s this other guy who I am sure banged into me, however, he just continued to walk away. I was quite shocked as I was expecting him to at least turn around and say sorry or something. Back on the tour bus, our guide started to ask us about our shopping trip. She goes on to comment about the huge crowd and as its very pack, Koreans are actually used to such crowd and to them, banging into each other is a very common thing. It’s only then that I realised their indifferent reaction about what happened earlier.

Oh wells I guess it’s just their culture, at least for those living in the crowded cities. Guess every different place will have its own unique culture.

xoxo,
Student A

Application Letter

1 February 2010

Mediterranean Shipping Co (Singapore)
c/o jobreplies-OPS@msc-asia.com


Shipping Officer

Dear Sir / Mdm,

I write in response to your advertisement in the Straits Times of Singapore dated Sunday, 31 Jan 2010 for the above position. A copy of my detailed resume is attached for your information.

I am currently a final year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science with a major in Statistics from the National University of Singapore. I will be graduating in July and will be able to start work anytime in July. During the course, I took several mathematics and project based modules which help me improve my analytical and interpersonal skills.

During my high school days, I served as the captain of the canoeing team. My leadership skills were put to a test and I learned about the importance of teamwork. My high school teacher testified that I am a meticulous and careful student with an aptitude for analytical thinking.

During my term break, I work part-time at SingTel as a customer service officer (CSO). As a CSO, I had first-hand experience of how to handle all kinds of different customers and to communicate with them effectively.

I am proficient in MS Office applications and am effectively Bi-lingual in English and Chinese. I am a quick learner and a strong team player.

I would be grateful for an opportunity to discuss the details of my application at any time convenient to you.

Thank you for your kind attention.


Yours faithfully,

Andy Law
Hp: 9000 1234
Email: andylaw@live.com.sg