1) I was quite apprehensive about joining SSUE because my Mandarin is not very good! I hadn't spoken it in awhile, and it was really rusty. One of my personal hopes was that through SSUE, I would be able to speak the language more fluently. I don't know if I have fully achieved this goal (probably should ask you all that instead) but I am more confident holding a conversation in Mandarin now. Hopefully I will improve more in May!!!
2) 2 significant memories of SSUE: the Southern Ridges tour with my group and the conversations I had with our Chinese friends over dinner in Bedok.
When we went on our walk through the Southern Ridges, it was pouring. We had to share umbrellas and a few of us got quite wet, but our Chinese teammates were really positive and their spirits weren't dampened at all. It was encouraging to see how they were so supportive of our plans and appreciative of Singapore's natural habitat. I decided that we must reciprocate their positivity in May! Walking the trail with them made me see our garden city through new eyes and helped me to appreciate our greenery more too.
At Bedok, we were talking about (among other things) China's history and society. I was struck by how much our Chinese peers really loved their country and felt responsible for her success. It was quite moving to witness their patriotism, and the debt of gratitude/responsibility they felt they owe to China! They made me relook at my position in Singapore and the responsibility I have to bring about her development. When I think about our conversation I feel quite guilty at how micro my views of life tend to be, when my peers in China are thinking about global issues like saving the world and leading their country!
3) I'm really happy to be part of the NUS SSUE delegation! It's been great meeting, befriending and working with you all and I hope it continues into the China leg and beyond! Special thanks to my friends in Group 1 - it was a wonderful 2 days with the 4 of you - and my fellow videographer Mei Yan.
Looking forward to the 2 weeks in China with everyone!
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