Backside poker

You hate how SMU has transformed itself over the years? Are you disgusted by Office of Career Service (OCS)? You wish the administrators will stop conducting all those bullshit job survey?

Tell you what. Go check out Mr Brown's latest podcast. You will love it.

http://www.mrbrownshow.com/?p=800

I love this line, "Learning is important, but getting a high paying job is even more important!" Haha ~ that's exactly what our dear OCS director has been telling us students. I wish the people in OCS are listening. Hmmmmm ~ maybe I should email them the link. Ok, steady ~ I shall do just that!

by Str|fe

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20 August 2007

A new phase in life?

by Str|fe

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Yawn ~

Good night!

by Str|fe

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Maybe that's enough?

I hope I have the rights to have my concerns and worries. After all, this is mine. You may not agree with some of my actions, but who are you to judge me? Do I not even have the rights to do what I wished to do? Is it wrong of me to have a dream in life, although it may take tens of year to fulfill? I appreciate constructive feedback, but yours definitely don't fall within this category. After all, what do you know?

Footnote: If you suspect that I am referring to you in this post, then don't bother verifying with me.

by Str|fe

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Final count down

15 minutes..........

by Str|fe

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L'esprit de l'escalier

I bet many of you understand the power of uniform. When you wear a uniform, you will tend to live that role subconsciously. Take for example, once the policemen put on their uniforms, they feel a stronger sense of justice and authority. I also have my uniform -The Long-4. This is what we called "the pyjamas" in army. Once we put it on, we will feel sleepy no matter how late the morning is. I have just pulled out my uniforms from the box. 4 years already ~ time to wash them (going to wear them in 2 weeks' time).
Later today will mark my final class in SMU. After all the long hours spent in campus (whether it was for projects, mugging or CCA), I can finally declare that I have reached the final hour. Yes, I am very glad. But again, I wonder if this will be the end of my school life. I do hope to have a chance to get a MBA in a few years' time. Who knows what happens tomorrow anyway.
I have 3 exam papers in 2 days, so pardon me if I mug mug mug. All these 3 papers are cummulative (i.e. first-half of term included), thus I have much to revise. 1 social pyschology papers and 2 law papers. The law papers are the killers since I have to read the statutes (no textbooks). I need some motivation to get me started though.
Ok ~ I dunno what else to say. I am getting abit lost on my social role now. Am I a student? A soldier? Or an employee? Enough of blogging .......

p.s. Understand the meaning of the post title?

by Str|fe

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- Sign now -

I was arranged to meet 2 persons (HR and Finance) in P&G today. When the HR showed me all the benefits P&G is offering, I was pleasantly surprised, except for the fact that there's no performance bonus. I raised up this issue to both the HR lady and the Finance head, but I was informed that P&G doesn't offer performance bonus. Oh well ~
Regarding the salary, there was no room for negotiation too. Although it's not far off (couples of dozen) my target, I will love to have a chance to negotiate. However, the Finance head was firm and assertive which left me with zero chance. She passed me 2 pieces of papers and requested me to read it on the spot. After reading it, she passed me the (cheapo) pen and said, "Sign now". I was stunned (again) for a moment, not realising that these two pieces of paper are actually the offer letter. Bah. The moment I requested for a few days to consider, she stood up and left the room after a few words. -_- attitude sia ~
So here I am staring at the letter, wondering if that's where I truly belong. It may sound weird now, but I wish they have a variable component to salary as I regarded it as a form of motivation. Not that the money really matters, but I do appreciate the pros of performance-based reward.
Oh ya, I seek her advice on my opportunity of oversea posting, and the Finance head told me bluntly that it will be at least 4 years later. Only the top performers will get a shot at it. Yeah ~ maybe this will be my motivation then.
Where do we go from here?

by Str|fe

2 comments

Have you been cheated for years?

School experiment sinks Ribena in court
Tuesday March 27, 4:08 PM

The global giant which makes Ribena pleaded guilty Tuesday to making misleading claims about the drink's health benefits after being exposed by two New Zealand teenage girls in a school science project.

GlaxoSmithKline's embarrassment stemmed from a test done by Anna Devathasan and Jenny Suo at an Auckland high school three years ago which cast doubt on the company's claims about Ribena's vitamin C content. Their findings were initially ignored by the firm but came to the attention of the Commerce Commission, a business watchdog, which took the company to court.

The multinational firm was fined 217,500 dollars (156,100 US) in the Auckland District Court Tuesday for breaching fair trading laws with claims about the vitamin C content of the popular blackcurrant drink. It was also ordered to run advertisements detailing the true contents of the drink, which first became popular in Britain when fruit became scarce in World War II. Ribena is now sold in at least 20 countries worldwide.

Earlier the company admitted in court that its cartoned ready-to-drink Ribena had no detectable vitamin C, despite claims it contained seven milligrams per 100 millilitres. The company also admitted it may have misled customers in advertisements saying blackcurrants had four times the vitamin C of oranges. Commerce Commission lawyer Nicholas Flanagan told the court the product was marketed as being healthy when in fact it contained more sugar than Coca-Cola.

A chastened GlaxoSmithKline said it has already changed its labelling and advertising to remove the misleading and incorrect information. "The fact that some of our products had incorrect labelling is to us, unacceptable, and we sincerely regret any confusion caused to customers who feel they may have been misled," it said after the conviction.

http://www.ribena.co.nz (This is an official annoucement by the company, I think)

I hope the local authority will sue the ass of GlaxoSmithKline too. If this giant can cheat on a drink, I wonder if it will cheat on its health products as well.

by Str|fe

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Counting down .....

14 more days to the end of my university life. 14 more days to the closure of this blog. Counting down day by day now .......
By the way, I doubt my NS liability is an issue with P&G anymore since the HR has called me up this morning to extend the offer. I will be heading to the office tomorrow to check out the details. Although the salary is relatively high for a non-financial corporation, I will still like to try to negotiate. Haha ~ that's just me.
Believe it or not ~ the moment I think of my financial independency in 4 months' time, the first thought that came to my mind is a dog. Haha ~ finally. I have been waiting for years to own a dog, hopefully I can fulfill this wish by this year. :)

by Str|fe

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If you ask me

Many of you won't believe it, but I will choose P&G rather than UOB. There are pros and cons to both jobs; but one important factor in my decision is the culture. No disrespect to UOB; I believe I will do better in P&G.
Any comment?

by Str|fe

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SK-II, anyone?

The HR from P&G asked if they can write a letter to the army to get me exempted from the 3-month liability. I almost laughed out loud when I heard it. When I asked "Why?", she replied that she wants me to start ASAP so that she can put me on assignment. So when I asked if I have passed, she replied, "Yes". Wahahaha ~
But there's no offer yet due to the bloody NS liability. The HR will only get back to me by the end of the week on the outcome. Fingers crossed.

by Str|fe

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It's your business

As expected, the fucking army doesn't give a shit. I only wished to check the number of days of leave left, and the bloody idiot claimed that she will only check it out when she received the official request from the new unit. Tell me ~ how long will it take to take out my file to check my leave balance? Even when I explained why I need it so urgently, she replied that she doesn't care about job offer. Fucking idiot. Fuck you, you hear me?
That's army for you.

by Str|fe

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It's just my luck

You won't believe it. Just like for Shell, I managed to clear all the rounds in UOB. However, just like Shell; UOB decided that my choice of business unit isn't the one for me. Yes, UOB has just called and they want to check if I am keen on the Private Banking sector.
Once again, I had to remind the HR lady that I don't wish to be a specialist in UOB, that's why I have chosen Risk Management sector so as to learn the different business units of the bank. For private banking, they are offering product specialist now and hopefully convert me into RM position in 2 years' time.
No, I won't be joining UOB.

1. I don't like this department at all. (And I have promised myself not to jump into any offer)
2. I can't start in time for the program anyway since I have my NS liability to clear.

I will have to call up the army tomorrow. I need to check out the number of days of leave I have left, and then possibly work out the "unofficial ORD date". Bah ~ this NS liability is really getting on my nerve and I am so bloody sure that they won't release me any earlier for me to start working.
Yeah ~ another missed opportunity

by Str|fe

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My love-hate relationship with Chartered

Recall my post back in October when I was invited to Temasek Holding for a career talk. During the discussion with one of the directors, I actually questioned her on the feasibility of holding on to Chartered Semiconductor when it had been in the red every quarter (I took special interest in Chartered due to the project I had done in my Strategy class). When the director asked me what would I do instead, I replied, "Cut loss". But again, I mentioned that it is an unlikely move since Chartered employs over 3,000 locals and it supports many other businesses in Singapore (Yes, I know I was too frank). Basically, I was accusing Temasek of holding on to a loss-making company for the sake of "national service", just like the Singapore Zoo (in case you dunno, Temasek owns the Zoo).
There's an interesting article in BT today on Chartered which brings new insight to the likely strategy of Temasek. Many of you should know that Temasek has recently made an offer for STATS and it has plan to privatise it. Privatisation allows Temasek to have full control of the restructing of STATS, without having to answer to the market. Since STATS complements Chartered's businesses, the BT corespondent is sharp in pointing out the possibility of Temasek privatising Chartered sooner or later. Cool. But again, Chartered has been issuing alot of junk bonds through the years. If this source of funding is terminated, is Temasek ready to pump in the capital? Lets see ~

by Str|fe

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Dog eats dog II

Do you think Citigroup will bid for ABN Amro too?

This merger between ABN Amro and Barclays is getting very interesting. If the bid is successful, it will create a bank worth more than US166 billion. Wah sei ~ and the outline for the merger looks cool. The combined entity will be listed in London, while the headquarter will remain in Amsterdam. What about the top jobs, you may ask. CEO of Barclays will remain as the CEO of the combined entity, while the CEO of ABN Amro will be the chairman. Speaking of iron ricebowl ~
What's make this more interesting is that many analysts believe Barclays can't create the best value for ABN Amro shareholders in the future, i.e. not much synergy. Thus, many are speculating that powerhouses like Citigroup, RBS, or HSBC will join in the race with hostile bids. Do you think Citigroup will bid? It's currently encountering alot of problems in its bid for Japan's Nikko Cordial Corp, and I believe the development of this acquisition will affect its decision in whether to join in the race for ABN Amro.
Oh well ~ what do you think? Which dog will win?

by Str|fe

2 comments

I heard what they say

I will be heading to Acid Bar tonight with a couple of friends. This alumni friend of mine will be leaving for Shanghai next week, thus we are just going to hold a mini drinking session for a farewell. She will be stationed in Shanghai for a year ~ cool.
It's time to start mugging, but the problem is that I have no sense of urgency at all. I just can't be bother lately. The report card for this term's projects and midterm exam:
A- for Law of M&A project
A- for IT & Law project
A- for Law of M&A midterm exam
Ok ~ A- isn't my best, but I just can't give it a shit now. Can't wait to hit the bar tonight! Oh ya ~ yesterday, a friend recommended me for a IB position offer she received over the phone. Thank you so much. Keeping my fingers crossed that my resume will grant me an interview soon. Eh, nothing else to say now. Acid Bar then!

by Str|fe

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I know I want more

An interesting dream I had last night. I was taking part in a soccer competition with my friends in SMU. The problem was that I am a super lousy soccer player, while my team mates are all good players. None of them wants me to play, but I insisted for an opportunity. Somehow, in the dream, I grabbed the opportunity and I score the winning goal. Everyone in the match froze for a second. None of them believed that I had scored a goal. And I was jumping for joy in the dream because I didn't let my team down.
I know I still crave for winning, but I really need that opportunity. Even my dream is structured this way. Have a good weekend, my readers.

by Str|fe

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Passport to nowhere

See, my only regret in my university life is missing out the opportunity for oversea exchange program. I just have to visit my friends' blogs to remind myself what I have missed out. Sigh ~ sian.
What about grad-trip? My only trip is back to the army camp. Haha. In fact, my gang of close friends just sms me moment ago, asking if I am keen to join them for a holiday from 10th to 12th May. -_- Right in the middle of my birthday. While they are on the bench in Tioman, I will be in that freaking camp. Sian ~
Ok, enough of complaints. On a positive note, I will definitely go Hongkong at the end of this year. :)

by Str|fe

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Learnt my lesson

Many of you asked what was the blunder I committed during my interview at P&G. Here you go ......

"Many of my friends commented that I am not a P&G guy, and this is a real concern for me. What exactly is a P&G guy?"

This is an extemely stupid question, no doubt about it. I shouldn't have raise this comment (negative) of friends about my fit with P&G. The interviewer was obviously stunned by this question as well. That's why I am not positive about getting past that stage.
And the HR lady just called moments ago. She asked when is my graduation date. When I heard that, I was pretty positive that an offer may just follow. When I asked if I had passed that round of interview, she replied that the panel of interviwers have yet to decide. Bah ~ so it's back to square one. Ok, lets just wait ..........

by Str|fe

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Coming home

Finally, the presentation this afternoon concluded my project journey in SMU. Yeah ~ I have no more projects to do! 18 more days to prepare for 3 exam papers and I don't think it will be any problem. Anyhow, I need only an average of B to maintain my honor. Hehe ~
I've spent hours collating the names of friends I've gotten to know through my 4 years in SMU. I have to go through every photos on the student portal since I can't remember any of their surnames. I need their full names in order to send them an email to thank them for our time in SMU. Yeah ~ the new building isn't one which I am going to miss, but all these 200++ of friends are the ones whom I wish to express my appreciation for. So many of them ~ from academic projects to community service project, from E.y.E Club to Bondue, from freshmen camps to oversea expedition project, from being your classmates to being your teaching assistants, from my peers to many more juniors; you are the ones who have made my stay in SMU so fulfilling. Yes, yours truly also experiencing this nostalgia for my university days although it's not officially over as yet.
If you do receive the email from me next week, well ~ thanks once again. If you don't happen to receive it, it may just mean that your photo in the portal doesn't look like you anymore. Haha. In any case ~ I wish you guys all the best in your study and career. Oh ya ~ any of you here, if you still don't have my msn, here you go (just to remain in contact). eternitu25@yahoo.com.sg

by Str|fe

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74

Not bad a record. :)

by Str|fe

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Maybe it's better this way

I had typed a post this afternoon after my interview at P&G. It was regarding my foolish blunder at the interview. Just not foolish ~ I reckon it may cost me the opportunity of progressing to next round. Somehow, the post is lost. I can't find it now. Ok, never mind. I shall just wait and pray. It's plain stupid of me. Sigh ~

by Str|fe

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You might as well keep quiet

The online forum on our student portal is one crappy initiative. Some students shamelessly say nothing in the post, except "I agree with ......"
Eh, don't post for the sake of participation point. If you have nothing special to contribute, then step aside. Don't type "I agree with ....." and continue to repeat whatever the original post have said. That's stupidity and shameless. No one cares if you agree. If everyone posts something just to agree, then there will be dozens of useless posts like yours. If you have something to contribute, do so. If you want to disagree and back it up with reasons, then do so too. But if you have no idea except with "I agree with ....", then shut up. I don't give a damn about the participation points, but it's disgusting how students will post for the sake of posting. Worst are those who never contributed, and suddenly spam the forum with dozen of posting in order to earn some last-minute participation points. It reflects the ugly side of you.

by Str|fe

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Shipping Trust

First Ship Lease Trust (FSL), which acquires and leases shipping assets, is seeking an SGX-listing that will make it the third and largest business trust on the local bourse by market capitalisation. The trust is promising investors a projected tax-free annualised distribution yield of 8.69 per cent, based on the issue price.

Months ago, I discussed the potential of shipping trust in Singapore. And I think the development is picking up momentum now. There's an article on BT today on why the market for shipping trust is growing. Just coping some stuffs over here to share with you guys ~

1. Shifts in the ship-financing industry worldwide have led ship users to look for different sources of funding.
2. Changes in local regulations - namely the Maritime Finance Incentive (MFI) and Business Trust Act (BTA) - have made Singapore an attractive alternative.

For details, refer to the article. But do note; For growth potential, organic growth can only come from higher market lease rates, unlike in real estate, where assets can be redeveloped to enhance value (which is common in local REITs).

by Str|fe

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Organized chaos

As the countdown begins, I start to wonder what's life after graduation. First up, I will be heading back to the army. The official posting is here ~ I am not going back to the dreadful Lim Chu Kang camp (something to cheer), but I am going to Bukit Gombak camp (Bah)! Ok, I shall not complain. It's just a couple of months anyway. Every month I am inside, I am forgoing at least $2K in salary. Tamade ~
I am heading to P&G for the 3rd round of interview later. Sometimes I wonder why are they requesting for so many rounds of interviews when the questions they post are exactly the same. Maybe it's just their strategy. Who knows? But to be frank now, I hope I can get the offer this time round. This is one company which I am most keen on among the few opportunities I have. Yes, I know you won't believe it too.
3 weeks to exam. Time to get my ass off the bed to mug. I have been sleeping 8 hours everyday this term. Haha. Life's good. Have a good week ahead, my friends.

by Str|fe

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Dog eats dog

Do you think Barclays will really take over ABN Amro?

by Str|fe

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Done!

The room is finally clean after 90 minutes of hard work! And my project report has been submitted! And my last presentation in SMU is just 2 days away! And it's only 3 more weeks to graduation! :)

by Str|fe

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Maybe they really hate me

Today marks the 2nd final driving lesson I have before the test. Seriously, the driving center sucks big time. First of all, they have to make me wait 6 months to take that stupid TP. Never mind. Now, they have changed their official vehicle from Honda Civi to Honda City. Great ~ I have been learning driving using Civi all the while, and now I will be tested using City. Bah. And guess what? I will expect myself to have the chance to drive City today, so as to get myself used to the vehicle control and size. Tamade ~ the instructor actually told me that for me, my 2 final lessons will still be using Civi. $%^&*(*&^%$# I will only get to try out City if I go for "revision lessons" which implies more money. Tamade ~ they are really one blood-sucker organisation.
Hmmmmm ~ I saw 2 tester vehicles knocking down the poles for parallel parking just now. The moment I saw the poles go down, I just feel so sorry for the drivers. Ok, I better do well and pass on my first attempt. I don't want to be sucked any further by that bloody driving center.

by Str|fe

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It's everywhere

Ok, tomorrow shall be the day. I can't postpone it any further. My eyes are getting red everyday, and the nose isn't coping either. Time to clean up my dusty room. Haha ~

by Str|fe

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M* 300

I still can't figure why so many of my friends recommended this movie. Yes, the combat sequences are good. However, the graphic is way too fake to look impressive. If you crave for violence and fight scenes, this may be the movie for you. However, if you are looking for a better plot with deeper personality development in the casts, I will suggest you watch wrestling instead.

Rating: 2.5 stars (credit for the combat scenes)

by Str|fe

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My dream car since 1999


*From its advertisement

by Str|fe

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Thank you

I know many of you are concerned about me. While many of you have been offering advices, some have been showering me with encouraging words too. I sincerely extend my appreciation for you guys. Thank you so much.
Yes, I don't have much luck with my job hunting so far. Whether it's due to my lousy interviewing skills, my egoistic attitude, or simply my NS liability, every rejection doesn't taste nice. It's especially with the high expectation I have of myself. With my background and record, I frankly believe that I deserve nothing but the best. Maybe it's time to be more realistic. I will continue to work hard, and to keep on searching. And yes, according to the tarot cards, I am supposed to have 2 offers before graduation. Tamade ~ can it be accurate for once?! Wahahaa ~

by Str|fe

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He smoked me!

That Korean interviewer really smoked me this time. His closing note, which stunned me at that very moment, was after all a bluff. Bah. I passed that round of interview and I have been invited for yet another round next week. Haha. Maybe I should have seen it coming. That interviewer actually walked me all the way to the lift when the interview was over, and he joked that it's because I am one of the higher quality candidates. Haha ~ yeah, delighted that I passed. Now ~ who wants to buy SK-II from me?

by Str|fe

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The irony of life

My buddy's sis asked me to forward my resume to her friend after learning that I am job hunting now. Her friend is a wealth manager in HSBC, so I guess I wasn't wrong to presume that the opening should be in the Wealth Management department.
A few days after forwarding my resume, he actually replied that he has forwarded my resume to HSBC IB. Yes, HSBC IB - the bank that has already rejected me. Bah ~ going square one. It's funny, isn't it?

by Str|fe

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Yet another week passes

Week 11 is coming to an end. Weird, isn't it? I have been a SMU undergrad for almost 4 years. Gosh ~ I can still recall the days in Bukit Timah campus. Those were the days where the student-life culture was so strong and lively. Yeah, I miss those times.
I am just 4 weeks away from graduation and I can't wait. I am just too restless. Having no CCA commitment, I am just a life-less chap in the campus. Yucks ~ I want to get out. Nowadays, I wear formal office attire much more often than casual attires in campus. Some of my friends even asked why am I back in school. Duhz ~
Ok, I really have nothing much to say. But watch this space. There will be alot of updates tomorrow (I hope), be it good news or bad news. And now, I am leaving the house for a drink. Yeah ~ time to hit the pub after so long.

by Str|fe

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Not feeling too good

I thought it was my mood last night, but I woke up vomiting this morning. Couldn't even stand up straight. Bah. Maybe I am just too restless.

by Str|fe

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My date with a Korean

I was curious when I was informed that the interview will be held at Springleaf Tower instead of Novena. When I reached the office, the door actually read: "P&G Prestige & Professional Care". Whaahaaha ~ is this the unit that sells SK-II? Whahahaa ~
Anyway, my interviewer is a very nice Korean Associate Director. Although the questions were slightly tougher than the HR round, it was manageable. I think my smoking skill has reached yet another height. I thought the interview went very smoothly till the very end. At closing, he ended off by saying, "Chris, if you can reach this round, it already means that you are very good. You shouldn't doubt yourself. If you don't get the offer, please don't get too disappointed. It's just the fit between both parties, just like a marriage. It doesn't mean that you are not good." Haha ~ that's an interesting closing note.
The result should be out by tomorrow. Lets see whether his closing note is a honest one. The issue that I still can't understand is that many (if not all) of my friends commented that I am not a P&G guy. Bah. Please define a "P&G guy". Thank you.

by Str|fe

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Here we go again

Average pay for the 353 fresh grads up 13%, some getting $12,000 a month. Every one of last year's SMU graduates has been snapped up by employers, with 100 per cent of its graduates in 2006 who were looking for jobs having found employment within six months of graduation, according to the university's latest graduate employment survey. The average gross monthly starting salary for SMU graduates in full-time employment rose 13 per cent on year to $2,850, while those who graduated with Cum Laude honours receiving average monthly salaries of $3,300, a 15 per cent increase over 2005.

To be fair, I have yet to examine the questionnaire in detail, but from what I gathered from the seniors, there was some integrity issues in the way those questions were phrased. Personally, I know a handful of friends who were out of job for months in 2006, but they were never part of this sample group. What's worst? The news actually reported that our top earners are earning between $4,000 to $12,000. I can bet my drink that this "$12,000" isn't just a random sample, but one which the administrators have ensured it's inside the group.
Another issue I have with this questionnaire is the exact time of publication. SMU Open House was held last weekend. This piece of news was broadcast over the TV last night and on the national papers today. Once again, we are trying to lure students to join us. Personally, I had complained this issue to the President, to the various Deans, to the specific Director; but it seems that they are happy with what they have achieved so far. No, I never buy this ads nor this strategy. In the first place, what kind of students are you really trying to attract to SMU with this type of survey result? We, as seniors, have witnessed how SMU freshmen have changed over the years. Instead of pushing all the blame to us, maybe it's time for the administrator to start reflecting on the ultimate outcome of such strategy.

by Str|fe

3 comments

Told you so

The less "crave" I have, the higher the chance of sucess. P&G has invited me back for a 2nd round of interview. This time round, it will be with the line manager. So my wish for a break away from interview this week vanishes in air once again.
The more interesting thing is that many of my friends commented that I am not a P&G man. Haha ~ that's really funny. They are so sure that I won't be able to fit into the P&G corporate culture. Oh well ~ such things always happen. When I am so sure that I can thrive in other corporations (spelled: Citi, HSBC), they won't even give me the chance for an interview. When others believe that there won't be a fit, such companies will give me all the opportunities.
Having said that, I will still do my best for this interview as well. :)
Monday blue ~~~~~~~~

by Str|fe

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The last dance

The wedding ceremony is finally over. It has been a long day. Ok, to be fair, I didn't have to do much (or anything), but witnessing such an elaborated event of my brother really gets me thinking. Why is there a need for such customary event? Must a couple goes through this whole process before their relationship is cemented?
Having said that, I have to admit that it's always nice to see so many people attending the wedding dinner. Whether they are long lost friends or distant relatives, they are all here to send their blessing.
The question I received most today is "When is your turn?" I can't blame them since my younger brother has stepped on this red carpet before me. I just need to laugh it off. Haha.
Anyway, I have much to share regarding this ceremony. Till the next dance. Good night.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Very sleepy ~

Yawn ...............................

by Str|fe

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It gets me thinking

Finally had my interview with P&G today. It has been a draggy process in order to earn my first interview with them. Before this round, I had to pass the personality test in stage 1 (month ago), reasoning test in stage 2, and essay writing in stage 3. And this interviewer actually told me that if I pass this round of interview, there will be at least 2 more.
This interview took an hour. It wasn't tough. Questions were relatively easy; all those HR questions which I have came across dozen of times by now. Surprisingly, I make it known to the interviewer that my ultimate goal is to be a CFO. Haha. Actually, P&G is a good company with a very competitive culture, but the thing is that they don't develop individual like Shell does. Shell will offer you opportunties to experience different departments every few years, but P&G develops individual to be specialist. Thus, I guess my declared goal of a CFO earlier on did scored some brownie points in a way. And funnily, I asked about work-life balance in the organisation although I can't care less about work-life balance. Haha ~
In summary, I think I did ok. I do hope that I will be free from any interview next week. Getting sick of it after having 3 this week alone. Time to recharge. Have a good weekend, my friends and readers. :)

by Str|fe

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Good night

It's Friday. Hope you guys have a good weekend. Good night.

by Str|fe

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Random thoughts

Maybe I am thinking too much. Just 4 more weeks to graduation. As I have mentioned dozen of times here, I will be heading back to army for a few months before a new phase in life. Maybe this uncertainty is getting into me. I am thinking alot now. I am trying to visualise my life at the end of the year. Where will I be? Busy at work? Or relax? Will I have work-life balance? Will I be able to own a dog? Will I be doing what I love to do? Will I be planning for a MBA? Or will I be doing CFA/ACCA? Will I get have the financial capacity to treat my mum to an oversea holiday? Will the problem with my buddy be settled by then? Will I still be staying in this flat? Or will I be moving out with my friend? Will I be posted oversea? Will I even be in the finance industry? Will I be happy?

by Str|fe

0 comments

Not excited

P&G called, so I am going for the interview tomorrow. Somehow, I am not excited by this interview at all. I know many of you will say that P&G is a good company, but just like Shell, it doesn't excite me. But well, as I have been told many times, I shouldn't be closing the door as yet. Lets see what the HR has to say tomorrow. No, I am not going to prepare. In fact, I am going to catch a movie later. I need something to cheer me up ~ it's bloody mood swing.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Good morning

It's Thursday. Coming to the end of the week soon. Everything has been smooth sailing so far. My brother's wedding gonna take place this Sunday, so I guess I have to buy the couple a gift soon. My room is in a mess now and I wonder how am I going to invite the visitors into my room on Sunday. 4 more weeks to the end of my academic life.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Ah Kiat ah

I saw my late grandpa in my dream last night. I woke up feeling he's still around, and I walked over to my shelf to give the hanging ring a gentle hit. Maybe he is looking over us, just like how he used to.

by Str|fe

0 comments

My ride with SK-II

Weird. It has been more than 2 weeks since I heard from P&G. I really thought that my NS obligation was the cause of the delay. The HR lady just called me up moments ago, inviting me for an interview. The first thing I told her was my NS liability. Sick of having to go through the process and ended up with rejection due to this shit, so I told her upfront. She is checking out now with the department, and she will get back to me asap. Oh well ~ maybe I can still sell SK-II

by Str|fe

1 comments

Searching for network

Dear SMU

You brag to the world that we have the best facilities a university can have. In fact, when we as students complained about the high school fees, you will never fail to use this brag as an excuse. I don't need the double white screens nor the multi-purpose box (dunno what you call that). I don't even need the stupid microphone. What I want is just small stable network. Can you bloody upgrade your software/hardware to ensure that we can access the bloody internet with ease? What's the point of encouraging us to get a laptop when you can't even provide a decent connection?

Your truly
Final year undergrad

by Str|fe

0 comments

Will you promise to be true?

For many reasons, the team has decided to pull out from the competition. No ill feeling, that's for sure. I have learnt a fair deal of stuff from this competition. I have achieved my initial goal anyway. Oh well ~ all well ends well. :)

by Str|fe

0 comments

My room

When I was in the army many years ago, I decided to give my room a new coat of paint. I bought many new furniture for my room at Ikea. Together with both my buddies' assistance, we managed to put up the pieces. Ok, they were the ones pulling the jobs through because I know nuts about reading those instruction manual. Haha ~ ok, I brought in drinks for them.
Back then, I painted the room myself. Every inch of it. I chose grey and beige, since they are both my favorite colors.
The room is in a bad shape now. It's disgustingly dusty. I shall give it a good brush once I graduate. And I intend to change my window, install an air-con, and buy a dog. But of course, all these will only be made possible with my first pay cheque. Oh ya, not forgetting my queen-size bed too. Haha ~
It's time to throw away alot of things ..........

by Str|fe

1 comments

That's it

There isn't any foreseeable interview now. Time to take a break.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Oh ya

Enjoy yourself tonight! Good night!

by Str|fe

0 comments

This one is painful

Sigh. I have just received the rejection from HSBC. Sigh. Sian sian sian. I had prepared very hard for it, but too bad I am just not good enough. I was given the opportunity, but I crushed it. Can't complained about it anymore. Sigh ~ I love the people and culture there. Wanted this job so much. Bah. All finished.
I have been thinking. Maybe I should just wait for the next window for the banking recruitment i.e. September, since I am going to finish my liability only in August. Sick of hard-selling myself these few months. Maybe I should really take a good break.
Sian ah ~ there goes my Investment Banking dream ~

by Str|fe

1 comments

Failure

This morning, the interviewer asked me a very interesting question.

What is failure to you?

Here's my reply:

First of all, I totally detest the phase "I have tried my best". I never believe in this line. To me, it's just another over-used excuse. I won't accept the idea that my real best isn't good enough. Anyway,who cares if you have tried your best? It's the result that counts, not your effort. If I ever fail, the only reason is simply due to the fact that I haven't prepared well enough. With enough preparation, I won't fail. Thus, to me, failure is when I didn't prepared well and yet gave myself the excuse of "I have tried my best".

Doesn't make much sense, right? I wasn't really answering to the question directly, but I was trying to imply to the interviewer that I won't accept failure. Haha ~ duhz ~
Anyway, share with me on the comments. Tell me what's failure to you.

by Str|fe

5 comments

Below 3,000

I made a bet with a friend last week that the STI will fall below 3,000 before this Friday. At this moment in time, it's hovering at 2,954. It have fallen 124 since morning. Reason? I guess it's the Japan market. Or maybe it's Wen Jiabao's comment in the parliament today. Oh well ~ bet won.

by Str|fe

0 comments

It is what it is

Didn't sleep well last night due to some funny dreams. I had to drag myself off the bed at 6.30am to prepare for the 8.30am assessment. Those tests are a waste of time. A person who is able to score well doesn't implied that he/she is suitable for the job, agree? That's for the assessment portion. Finished it by 10am, so I headed to Plaza 2 for the interview with the VP. He is a very nice sincere man. I can tell that he will make a very good mentor.
Although this interview took 1 hour, it was more like a get-to-know-you session. I was very frank with this department head. I told him that I wanted to enter risk mgt to pick up those technical skill, however, I won't want to remain in this department more than 3 years. I see myself more of a generalist than a specialist. I seek his opinion on letting his staffs (i.e. me) move on when the opportunities arise in the future. And he actually asked for my opinion on oversea posting.
Yes, I know my conversation with him may be too frank to serve me any good, but I guess I want to be fair to both parties. "Manage one's expectation", that's what they call. So if the department is really searching for a specialist, then it's fair that they choose others over me too. Anyway, I brought up the issue of my NS liability again. Unfortunately, even this VP has no say in this HR matter. He told me that it may really be a big problem (i.e. apply next year). Sigh ~ what to do? Just my luck.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Congratulation?

Dear team,

Congratulations! Based on the preliminary case analysis, you have been short-listed for the Citibank Case Challenge 2007 from 15th – 17th March.

Couldn't believe it when I received the email moment ago. What's up sia? Did other teams screw up much more than I did? Haha ~ amazing. Ok, but I shall be fair here. Kudo to my team mates who have managed to compile an outstanding case and presentation. Although I tried my best, it was obviously not good enough. I am lucky this time round. I will work hard in keeping my nerve under control in the final. :)
39 teams from SMU participated. 12 teams were shortlisted based on the report. These 12 teams made the presentation over the weekend and only 6 teams proceed on the final. Yeah ~ achieved my initial goal.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Please

Go away. I am tired. I have no strength to fight. Go now. Please. Don't you ever regret.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Yawn ~

Ok, you win. Are you happy now?

by Str|fe

0 comments

Another week struck off the calendar

Time flies. It's week 10 already. Just 5 more weeks to graduation. Haha ~ shiok. I am left with just one project which is unfortunately the toughest one too. I have 3 exam papers though ~ sian. Once the exam week is over, I will be going back to the army to serve out my liability. No chance for any grad-trip. Not that I can afford it now anyway.
It's a lazy Sunday afternoon. Finally managed to take a peaceful nap for an hour. It has been very draining for the past few days. I have nothing much to say now though. I am not in the best of mood. To hell with shit-stirrer. Arrrrggghhhh...... okok. Next week will be a better week. At least, it won't be that pack.
Oh ya, may I leave a few words of advice here....... If you haven't realised, I have witnessed enough girls in and out of his life. Don't get me started ......

by Str|fe

0 comments

What else to expect?

Nah, I won't be lured into a cat fight with an uneducated kid (whom all of us agreed). It's just your inaction that disappoints me.

by Str|fe

0 comments

One line

You.are.losing.the.plot.

by Str|fe

0 comments

I survive

Lalalaala ~ finally the end of the 3 crazy day. Just a re-cap.

Thursday
- Project presentation. It wasn't impressive, but who cares?

Friday
- Law of M&A midterm. I didn't had time to prepare, but who cares?
- Case competition. I scewed up. I am sorry. I care.

Saturday
- UOB assessment center. Didn't really enjoy it. Find it very fake.
- HSBC interview. I love it. It's one screw-up interview which I enjoyed. Haha.

So what's up for next week? Monday will be the interview with UOB VP, and Tuesday will be with MAS. Hopefully, I can squeeze out some time to go shopping with her in the mid-week. Then it will be my younger brother's wedding on Sunday.
Ok, I am drained now. Time to hit the bed, before hitting the beer bottles tonight!

by Str|fe

0 comments

Can't describe this feeling

I feel really good. It's funny. I know I didn't performed well for the technical question (answering only 50% right), I really enjoyed the interview process. Especially the networking session with the fellow candidates. The HR lady was extremely friendly and approachable too. And I did get to have a short chat with the MD, gosh ~ he is one charming fellow.
So, as mentioned, I screwed up the interview, but I enjoyed my whole time there. Haha ~
Now, I know I have tried my best (really my best), and I have been given the opportunity. I can't be bitter now about the lack of interviewing opportunities. The result will be out next week. Frankly speaking, I am already very happy and glad with this opportunity. So don't cry for me even if I don't get the offer (which is expected). :)

by Str|fe

0 comments

What's your name?

Someone called me on my phone today and asked me what's my name. I think that guy was calling from Hougang. Then the bloody campus 'Centre for Counseling and Guidance" send me an email, condemning me for missing a career talk last week. Bloody idiot, you know what I reply?

by Str|fe

0 comments

Sorry

It's a total disaster. If I failed myself alone, at least I won't feel as bad now. The fact is I have let my team down. The nerve took over me. Yeah ~ my team mates have been very nice to say that it's a learning experience, but I am still a total disgrace. How can a senior has such bad stage fright? Sigh ~ I feel really bad. I am really very sorry.

by Str|fe

0 comments

Perhaps perhaps

Good morning, guys ~ it's 6.30am now. I am all ready to head to campus now for the rehearsal. Maybe this time round I will need a bit of luck. Didn't managed to revise for the midterm paper last night, so it's really fingers-tightly-crossed this time. Am I worried about the presentation later? You bet. I will try my very best because I don't want to let my team and myself down. The question is, "Is my best good enough?"
Drop me a msg?

by Str|fe

0 comments

11/05 - 05/11

I was introduced to you through a mutual friend in Primary 5. We used to play Hum-da-bo-la during our recess and right after the school bell went off. I was always the odd one out in the gang because I was the only guy from the Express stream. While most of my classmates stayed back in school to mug for PSLE, I would be at the playground with you guys.
When PLSE was over, we were glad that both of us ended up in the same secondary school. Although you were in the Technical class, our friendship was never bothered by it. As usual, I preferred to mix around with you all. It was funny how we involved we were in each other's puppy love. Of all the girls in the school, we had to chase after the same senior. Ended up, none of us got her. Haha. It was also then when I realised you had picked up smoking. Totally pissed, I was. I avoided you for months not because I despise smoker, but I was trying to convince you to quit. Tried as I might, it failed miserably. But at least you won't smoke in front of me back then.
To earn more pocket money, both of us ended up at McDonald's for our first job. Amazingly, both of us moved on to KFC together too. And not forgeting all the X'mas cards selling experience we had together.
As we grown up, you taught me rollerblading while I taught you tennis. We hit the clubs (spell: nightspot) every weekend, getting ourselves foolishly drunk. Back then, our ex-girlfriends even shared the same English name. Haha ~
We used to promise each other that we will be the 'best man' for each other's wedding. While you always wanted to settle down so much, I was just the opposite. Sometimes, even strangers recognized that the two of us are completely opposite. Even our birth dates are opposite - your 05/11, my 11/05.
15 years on, both of us are in a situation which none of us would have imagined. It's a pity a person can decide for us that I am not worthy for you as a buddy anymore. No doubt that the strenght of a friendship shouldn't be measured by the length of it, but I believed we had been through much more. Sigh. Find it weird that I no longer know what my closest buddy is currently doing. It's a pity ~ sigh .......

by Str|fe

2 comments

I don't believe it too

I don't understand. My schedule for next week is totally empty. No meeting, no interview, no nothing. Yet, I have to face the craziest 3 days for this term starting today. If my schedule hasn't been packed enough, don't worry ~ people will pack it for me.
Just finished the project presentation for Social Psychology, so it's one down. I am left with a midterm exam (law) tomorrow and case competition presentation. Of course it's not sufficiently packed. UOB called up and requested for an interview with the head of risk management department. Don't understand why, especially since it's not part of the recruitment procedure. He want to see me today at 6pm. Yeah right ~
Never mind, moments later ~ MAS called. She wants to arrange an interview for me with the Reserve department (the one I am keen) tomorrow. Yes ~ of so many days, it must be tomorrow. Have to turn down the arrangement, and I doubt there will be any more opportunity from MAS since I have postponed it 3 times. Even the HR remember my name now. Haha ~ whatever lah.
A piece of good news though. I have made some arrangement with UOB, so yeah ~ I can leave earlier on Sat, so that I can make it in time for the HSBC interview.
See? I just need to get past these 3 days. Got it?

by Str|fe

0 comments

It has started

Good morning, people. Wish me luck, ok? I shall survive the next 3 days. The weather is good. Like I said before, I like rainy days because everything else seem to stop. My mood is excellent now.
All the best in your upcoming presentations and tests, if any. Till then ~

by Str|fe

0 comments

Str|fe
@ www.masterzhuo.blogspot.com

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