8th Jan Daily Postings

On Day 5, we went to interview the CMU tourism and veterinarian professor. What they knew was what we had already dug up from previous interviews but it was good to confirm that we had done our best to find out what we could. Now what’s left is desktop research and compiling our media deliverables.

In the afternoon, we participated in the amazing race organized by our seniors and helped out by our professors. I’m really amazed that they went to the trouble to find out different routes for all the groups, kudos to them. While the race was relatively short, we were certainly forced to move out of our comfort zone to participate and lead actively. Interestingly, what most of us exhibited during the race was similar but slightly exaggerated from what we were already doing during our trip in Chiang Mai. Cheng was the obvious leader, Mengyu was the one staying on point with the directions, Catherine was the one coming up with solutions while Xian Cher and I were the supporters. I guess it’s because we’re already used to this group formation during the trip that we naturally assume these roles. It certainly makes the group more efficient. Depending on the situation, anyone can be a leader but i think what matters most is to stand up for what you think is best and playing your role well. I’m glad this race showed that we can function well as a team

Later at night, we visited the cabaret club. Being a business establishment, their antics were probably for the purpose of generating business. The cross-dressing waitress were constantly harassing different customers for tips whenever possible. However what i noticed was one particular waitress just standing there with a straight face with a glass jar on our way out. She was not smiling in the slightest. I believe that there’s always a choice in life and while some people’s jobs may not be the most pleasant one, it’s best to find some part of it you enjoy. Even if you don’t enjoy it, the people around you can be your support and motivation to persevere. Always look forward to the brighter times ahead.

Many thanks to the time our group and the Profs spent together and Pro for being such an attentive and well versed guide. I’m really grateful we had this study trip with our USP mates and we would’ve gotten a totally different experience if we had gone travelling ourselves.

My time spent photographing was fun while it lasted, time to return the DSLR.  Here’s a montage of some of the pictures and videos we took, enjoy!