My Intercultural Observation(s)

I visited Vietnam with a few friends in June this year. We went for a boat ride to visit the islands and tourist attractions there, when I had the chance to observe the Vietnamese people that were with us on the boat.

For some reason, the Vietnamese on the boat were "tourists" too, and there were many of them. Like how many Singaporeans are unfamiliar with tourist attractions in Singapore, me included. Anyway, they had loads of fruits with them, probably because there were many roadside stalls selling a large variety of fruits everywhere. The boat crew also served fruits to those on board. I saw that the Vietnamese were happily throwing all their seeds, fruit skins and whatever trash they had out of the boat into the water. I did not notice any trash bins on the boat, maybe that is why they had to dump everything out of the boat. After a while, I followed suit and threw my rubbish out into the water too, including my chewing gum.

In the Singaporean context, if something like that was done, we would start getting slapped with fines and Corrective Work Order. Hence, it was interesting for me, not only to observe this behaviour, but to participate in it as well. Some other people may be offended by such acts, especially the environmentalists.

This is probably a cultural thing not only for Vietnam, but for many other parts of the world where there is no strict control over the way people manage their litter. In our perspective, we probably see it as ruining the environment and image of our country. In their perspective, they probably see it as their way of life, their means of disposing of litter since they do not see the point of holding on to it.

Application Letter

02 September 2010

Ms Vivian Tan
HR Executive
Credit Management Consultancy Group
16 Jalan Kilang Timor
#07-05 Redhill Forum
Singapore 159308

RE: Job Application for Financial Analyst Position

Dear Ms Tan,

I am interested in the Financial Analyst position as posted on the redad.com website. When I graduate in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science (Statistics), I would like to join your company as a Financial Analyst.

Being a Financial Analyst requires the mental capacity to analyse large amounts of data, and handle the pressure of a fast-paced job environment. I have the skills and abilities required for this position. There will always be a need for individual work and the team effort, and I am able to be efficient in both aspects. As a pacer for my JC's dragonboat team previously, I had to remain calm during races to ensure that the frequency of the strokes were optimal for the benefit of the team. I am impressed by your company's tremendous track record, and I would like to be a part of your team.

Please refer to my enclosed resume for more information. I believe that there is a lot that I can offer to your company, and I would like to have the opportunity to meet up with you in person to discuss my qualifications and skills. You can email me at junxiong.chan@gmail.com, and I would be glad to provide you with more information on how I can be of service to your company.

Thank you.

Sincerely,


Chan Jun Xiong