Conseguí la entrevista para el estudio extranjero en España el año próximo. Estoy muy feliz...
Pero...
Tengo un problema español
Lo cual es:
I have trouble speaking Spanish.
Really, I do. I can construct a sentence in Spanish but it will never come out the same.
I am taking Spanish course to practice, but every time I try to speak in class I get so self-conscious that I have no clue what I'm saying.
I didn't do well on my Spanish test yesterday, and interview is coming up very soon. It's make it or break it. I guess I'm a step farther from Spain.
February 20, 2009
February 5, 2009
McMUN? More like McFUN!
Oliver Shen
The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
The Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner of Refugees
McGill Model United Nations Conference at Montreal was a lot of fun! I got to know so many people from different schools (Harvard, Columbia, MIT, West Point, Air Force Academy, and Venezuela)! I also got to learn so much about UN procedures and topics on refugees. Georgetown was the biggest winner in this conference, then George Washington. But congrats to our NGO delegation, Medecins Sans Frontieres, for winning the best NGO delegation out of 10 NGOs! You all deserved it!
But... the debates and resolution papers were a bit off topic :S
Like, what does sustainable development, micro-finance, and vocational training have to do with rising food prices on refugees? Just supply more so the prices will get down! Well, it got so off topic that I didn't contribute a lot in the debates.
Nevertheless, it was fun. I only slept about 4 hours a night because of the parties. Got back to hotel at 4:00 and wake up at 8:00 because committee sessions started at 9:00.
Some people in my committee will be going to Netherlands too in March! Can't wait to see them again!
:D
The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
The Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner of Refugees
McGill Model United Nations Conference at Montreal was a lot of fun! I got to know so many people from different schools (Harvard, Columbia, MIT, West Point, Air Force Academy, and Venezuela)! I also got to learn so much about UN procedures and topics on refugees. Georgetown was the biggest winner in this conference, then George Washington. But congrats to our NGO delegation, Medecins Sans Frontieres, for winning the best NGO delegation out of 10 NGOs! You all deserved it!
But... the debates and resolution papers were a bit off topic :S
Like, what does sustainable development, micro-finance, and vocational training have to do with rising food prices on refugees? Just supply more so the prices will get down! Well, it got so off topic that I didn't contribute a lot in the debates.
Nevertheless, it was fun. I only slept about 4 hours a night because of the parties. Got back to hotel at 4:00 and wake up at 8:00 because committee sessions started at 9:00.
Some people in my committee will be going to Netherlands too in March! Can't wait to see them again!
:D
January 16, 2009
MUN: Mocking United Nations
I joined MUN because I wanted to participate in discussion of world issues and learn more. So far has been a good experience. But, I'm starting to get a bit annoyed, because it is starting to move away from what I've thought.
Ignorance
I honestly don't know why some people are in this club. Ok, you are assigned to a country, so do the homework, a.k.a. the fucking research on your country's foreign policy. There have been cases where US team up with Russia, China, and Venezuela on a resolution paper. Uh, hello? Last time I checked my world history the three latter countries don't have the same interests. You are supposed to represent. That's it, represent. If your country says it doesn't want to work with certain countries, you shouldn't. And it annoys me more when those people try to justify their resolution papers when really, they don't know a thing.
Nonsense
When it comes to debate on resolving an issue, it's hopeless. For instance, last meeting the scenario was like this:
Topic: Conflict in Gaza
Question: How should the UN enforce a cease-fire on both sides?
Content of Debate:
- It's Hamas' fault
- It's Israel's fault
- 900 women are dying
- Some random proposal involving Santa Claus and amusement parks
What the fuck? Are you serious? The entire debates are so off track. That's why I barely talk and listen.
Pretense
Around October, we were informed by our executives that two people will be selected based on weekly performance to Global MUN that is held by UN itself in Geneva, Switzerland. Yup, you go there, you'll meet Secretary General and other important UN figures. Well, yea that's definitely something to mention on your resume or applicaiton for anything. Since then people would just go up and talk nonsense, just to impress the executives. Everytime I hear that, I snooze. Like hardcore. And they all act so close and personal with them.
Conclusion
I guess drama never solely belonged to high school.
Ignorance
I honestly don't know why some people are in this club. Ok, you are assigned to a country, so do the homework, a.k.a. the fucking research on your country's foreign policy. There have been cases where US team up with Russia, China, and Venezuela on a resolution paper. Uh, hello? Last time I checked my world history the three latter countries don't have the same interests. You are supposed to represent. That's it, represent. If your country says it doesn't want to work with certain countries, you shouldn't. And it annoys me more when those people try to justify their resolution papers when really, they don't know a thing.
Nonsense
When it comes to debate on resolving an issue, it's hopeless. For instance, last meeting the scenario was like this:
Topic: Conflict in Gaza
Question: How should the UN enforce a cease-fire on both sides?
Content of Debate:
- It's Hamas' fault
- It's Israel's fault
- 900 women are dying
- Some random proposal involving Santa Claus and amusement parks
What the fuck? Are you serious? The entire debates are so off track. That's why I barely talk and listen.
Pretense
Around October, we were informed by our executives that two people will be selected based on weekly performance to Global MUN that is held by UN itself in Geneva, Switzerland. Yup, you go there, you'll meet Secretary General and other important UN figures. Well, yea that's definitely something to mention on your resume or applicaiton for anything. Since then people would just go up and talk nonsense, just to impress the executives. Everytime I hear that, I snooze. Like hardcore. And they all act so close and personal with them.
Conclusion
I guess drama never solely belonged to high school.
January 10, 2009
Strike Rant
This strike is getting on my nerves.
Everything is so messed up.
All the union members have been on strike for over two months. Two months of my academic year were just wasted. UGHHH.
I honestly don't understand the rationale behind their actions. Ok, you don't like what the university is paying you, but frankly I'm pretty sure that's everyone. Additionally, you don't have to drag 50,000 students down with you. Like, hello, be considerate. Yea, it may seem like you're a soldier fighting in this corporate capitalist war, but really you're just making yourself look bad among the university.
Some of the TAs are graduating this year too, so what's the point if you get your demands? You wouldn't get them in the end. Plus, how dare you to ask for benefits of full-time workers when you don't work as much? Some of my friends have said that before strike happened they only had like 5 tutorials out of total of 20. This is ridiculous. If you're not doing the job, you don't deserve the benefits. Simple as that. And, your TA job is just part-time. No one says it's mandatory to your studies. If you don't like it you can quit it or postpone your studies and go straight into the workforce.
Considering the economic situation now, damn, they seriously got guts to demand more money. At first, about 45% increase in wages. That's like millions of dollar more in the university's budget. If the school can't get it, guess where they'll get it from? Students. Yea, you guys say you're under the poverty line, but there are people in this world, for your inforation, who are but DON'T have jobs. Honestly be thankful that you do. It disgusts me when those who have complain they don't have.
Okay, let's say we go back to soon as early as next week. Hmm, Reading Week has already been cancelled. University said there will be 13 more days of class from fall semester, which is immediately followed by 12 days of exams. In those 14 days of class, we can cram all those 4 weeks of reading in a week and hand in all assignments (which I doubt the TAs will mark). But, I wouldn't learn anything. Or, we can forget about the readings we haven't touched and start reviewing. I still wouldn't learn anything. Moreover, the winter term is cut short too, so it'd be hustle, hustle, hustle!
Anyway, enough of this crap. No matter how much I rant, nothing can be done nor changed. This strike definitely has made a totally different year. Crappier? Maybe. Just want it to end.
Everything is so messed up.
All the union members have been on strike for over two months. Two months of my academic year were just wasted. UGHHH.
I honestly don't understand the rationale behind their actions. Ok, you don't like what the university is paying you, but frankly I'm pretty sure that's everyone. Additionally, you don't have to drag 50,000 students down with you. Like, hello, be considerate. Yea, it may seem like you're a soldier fighting in this corporate capitalist war, but really you're just making yourself look bad among the university.
Some of the TAs are graduating this year too, so what's the point if you get your demands? You wouldn't get them in the end. Plus, how dare you to ask for benefits of full-time workers when you don't work as much? Some of my friends have said that before strike happened they only had like 5 tutorials out of total of 20. This is ridiculous. If you're not doing the job, you don't deserve the benefits. Simple as that. And, your TA job is just part-time. No one says it's mandatory to your studies. If you don't like it you can quit it or postpone your studies and go straight into the workforce.
Considering the economic situation now, damn, they seriously got guts to demand more money. At first, about 45% increase in wages. That's like millions of dollar more in the university's budget. If the school can't get it, guess where they'll get it from? Students. Yea, you guys say you're under the poverty line, but there are people in this world, for your inforation, who are but DON'T have jobs. Honestly be thankful that you do. It disgusts me when those who have complain they don't have.
Okay, let's say we go back to soon as early as next week. Hmm, Reading Week has already been cancelled. University said there will be 13 more days of class from fall semester, which is immediately followed by 12 days of exams. In those 14 days of class, we can cram all those 4 weeks of reading in a week and hand in all assignments (which I doubt the TAs will mark). But, I wouldn't learn anything. Or, we can forget about the readings we haven't touched and start reviewing. I still wouldn't learn anything. Moreover, the winter term is cut short too, so it'd be hustle, hustle, hustle!
Anyway, enough of this crap. No matter how much I rant, nothing can be done nor changed. This strike definitely has made a totally different year. Crappier? Maybe. Just want it to end.
January 7, 2009
Au Revoir
Au revoir, Taiwan.
It had been a great 3 weeks.
Thank you for the time with my family, friends, and Morrison
I have learned and been motivated so much
Family's positive expectation for me
Friends' encouragement, catch up, stories, and goals
Visiting Morrison: Seeing new buildings, connecting with old friends, but the most significant part of the visit was seeing Hans Rempel, giving him my condolence for Jeni
Je te retournerai, Taiwan
Je promets.
Salut, Canada.
It had been a great 3 weeks.
Thank you for the time with my family, friends, and Morrison
I have learned and been motivated so much
Family's positive expectation for me
Friends' encouragement, catch up, stories, and goals
Visiting Morrison: Seeing new buildings, connecting with old friends, but the most significant part of the visit was seeing Hans Rempel, giving him my condolence for Jeni
Je te retournerai, Taiwan
Je promets.
Salut, Canada.
December 21, 2008
2008 Revisited
As 2008 comes to an end, I have been remembering all the things that happened this year. I will be breaking this period into different sections.
The Rat
Although Chinese New Year was later in February, I remember I was walking back to residence when I bumped into my Spanish professor, asking me about Chinese New Year. I told him it was the year of the rat, and he asked me the significance, which I didn't know at all; hence I made up stuff. I said the rat is the head of the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac so it is like a new beginning. And honestly I didn't believe the things I was saying.
Later in October I met Martinez again, and I was surprised that he remembered the things on Chinese New Year I'd told him. He asked me whether this year was a good beginning as I had preached. It was.
Start
I didn't get along with my roommate so I moved out to a new residence in December 2007. A month later they were hiring porters (just people at the front desk). I applied and got it with 3 other people. It was the first paid job I had. I got to make new friends though I was sad that I wasn't as close with my friends in my old residence.
Trauma
I felt things were getting better as I was excited to visit my sister. But the most unexpected thing happened. I didn't tell a lot of people about this, but I survived a very horrifying car accident. I won't go into details what specifically happened, but in summary I suffered memory loss of the accident and a pretty big concussion and other not so great things. These things kind of haunted/traumatized me that I was almost in clinical depression.
Loss
But with the help of friends and family, I was able to come out of that sad state. However, I believe that a week or two after I have recovered, I was informed by my teacher Mrs. Moore that my friend Shane, who left Morrison in 5th grade, died of an accident. The moment I read the words "has past away," was as if so suddenly a spear penetrated from the back that I had no time to feel the pain. I was really really in denial. I had lost contact with him so many years but I finally found him through Facebook in senior year of highschool. I was very amazed to learn that he had a band and had written songs. And they were pretty good! I listened to them very often. Just when I wanted to learn and hear more from him, he left. It's all too soon. Thinking back to the moment I received the news still stings me.
Just as I was still mourning and struggling over this loss, I was informed of another friend who died of an accident: Jeni. She too left Morrison early, in 3rd grade, and I've lost contact with her for over ten years. It was last year too that I found her on myspace and facebook, but I didn't ask her much about her life. Through her photos I can tell that she was enjoying her life and ambitious about her future. She has always been that girl, even in elementary. It too was very sudden.
They were too young to leave this world. I know people will have to leave this world soon, but not that early. They had so much potential, talent, and ambition for life. It's so sad and heart-breaking that they left without fulfilling or achieving their dreams and goals. It was too overwhelming. Even now I sometimes want (to believe) this loss is an illusion.
Landmark
My life had to continue, despite my great desire for it to stop for a little bit to reflect. I moved into my friend's house for the first part of the summer just to take summer school. My friends subletted their rooms to other people, so I was living in a house with 4 strangers. I was a bit concerned, but it turned out that we got along pretty well. I was told things were a bit rough after I left. I guess I'm a great harmonist.
I set off for Sherbrooke, Quebec. Before deciding, I wasn't sure if I want to do the Explore Program again. Thank goodness I chose to do it. In addition to my improved French, I learned more on gaining optimism back to my life. Making friends from different age group, background, and regions, can help you learn a lot about life and yourself. I learned to appreciate the talents and qualities I have.
After the program, I travelled to Montreal, Ottawa, Kingston, and Niagara Falls before going straight back into residence in Toronto. It was a bit of a challenge travelling by myself, especially with my entire closet. I needed to relax and enjoy before the school year can challenge me. I was happy I did.
Return
It's always good to be settled. I was really thrilled to get on the bus back to Toronto and settle in my residence room immediately. Of course, seeing familiar faces is a major bonus. However, seeing new faces is great too. Made new friends in residence, in new classes, in new student clubs, while enriching old friendships, like going clubbing (finally) for birthdays and sharing them my summer stories and new dreams.
Yet, things can't always be that smooth right? Yup, the notorious strike happened. There hasn't been any updates, but I hope it can come to an end in 2009.
Learned
People say 18 is when you transition to reach true adulthood, but they never say how hard it can be. Maybe that's why the legal adult age in most areas of Canada is 19? Just a thought. Thank goodness I survived 18 (pun intended), and I have some thoughts I've developed after reflection.
People Do Care
Whoever said that people in university don't care (*COUGHSENIORTOPICSCOUGH*) is UNDISPUTEDLY WRONG. People DO care. It's a matter of your choice and the people you want to share your thoughts. When I was down, I did feel like people didn't care, but I had to take a risk and trust some of my friends that they will listen, care, and provide some insight. Some did and didn't; the ones that did are my very close friends now. There's nothing wrong making many friends, but choose wisely for some can take without return.
You Can't Fake It
I came across this phrase when I was attending a session at the career center. The presenter was talking about authentic conversation with a stranger. If you are not interested or don't have the knowledge in the topic of the discussion, don't even try squeezing out a drop of interest or digging out two cents: you just don't have it so stop. Be and stay true. People can tell when you're faking it, which can go against you.
Appreciate Yourself
I've noticed that so many people want to be someone else or devalue themselves. I don't understand the rationale; frankly I don't think there is one for that kind of behaviour. Everyone has something that other people don't have. I'm horrible in writing essays, sciences and mathematics, and I admire those who excell in them, but some people don't appreciate or value the talent and skill they have. I was kind of like that, but after going to Quebec I've learned to appreciate myself more. I encourage everyone else to find the talent, quality, or skill they have. Use those virtuously for your own advantage, whether for personal or professional life.
Consistency and Commitment Reward You
Whatever your goal is, if you want it, you must commit and be consistent. I wanted to lose some weight so committed 4 days per week for the gym, and (OMG) IT WORKED (and still does)!!! Do not think that you can get anything by just saying. HELLO, OF COURRRRSE it's easier said than done. You choose: Do the work or be the jerk.
2009 Expect
I hope I've experienced the worst. I do not wish to experience something horrifying again. No, I don't, and I'm serious. However, after this transition, I'm more optimistic and thankful about life, personal and professional and academic. Suddenly being too confident like before isn't a smart move. I can only build my future and confidence in small increments. It might not be that great, but that's what I want. I don't know what 2009 holds for me. But I can bravely face the future. Papers, finals, MUN, Netherlands, Valencia, Europe, work, graduate school, and many more.
The Rat
Although Chinese New Year was later in February, I remember I was walking back to residence when I bumped into my Spanish professor, asking me about Chinese New Year. I told him it was the year of the rat, and he asked me the significance, which I didn't know at all; hence I made up stuff. I said the rat is the head of the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac so it is like a new beginning. And honestly I didn't believe the things I was saying.
Later in October I met Martinez again, and I was surprised that he remembered the things on Chinese New Year I'd told him. He asked me whether this year was a good beginning as I had preached. It was.
Start
I didn't get along with my roommate so I moved out to a new residence in December 2007. A month later they were hiring porters (just people at the front desk). I applied and got it with 3 other people. It was the first paid job I had. I got to make new friends though I was sad that I wasn't as close with my friends in my old residence.
Trauma
I felt things were getting better as I was excited to visit my sister. But the most unexpected thing happened. I didn't tell a lot of people about this, but I survived a very horrifying car accident. I won't go into details what specifically happened, but in summary I suffered memory loss of the accident and a pretty big concussion and other not so great things. These things kind of haunted/traumatized me that I was almost in clinical depression.
Loss
But with the help of friends and family, I was able to come out of that sad state. However, I believe that a week or two after I have recovered, I was informed by my teacher Mrs. Moore that my friend Shane, who left Morrison in 5th grade, died of an accident. The moment I read the words "has past away," was as if so suddenly a spear penetrated from the back that I had no time to feel the pain. I was really really in denial. I had lost contact with him so many years but I finally found him through Facebook in senior year of highschool. I was very amazed to learn that he had a band and had written songs. And they were pretty good! I listened to them very often. Just when I wanted to learn and hear more from him, he left. It's all too soon. Thinking back to the moment I received the news still stings me.
Just as I was still mourning and struggling over this loss, I was informed of another friend who died of an accident: Jeni. She too left Morrison early, in 3rd grade, and I've lost contact with her for over ten years. It was last year too that I found her on myspace and facebook, but I didn't ask her much about her life. Through her photos I can tell that she was enjoying her life and ambitious about her future. She has always been that girl, even in elementary. It too was very sudden.
They were too young to leave this world. I know people will have to leave this world soon, but not that early. They had so much potential, talent, and ambition for life. It's so sad and heart-breaking that they left without fulfilling or achieving their dreams and goals. It was too overwhelming. Even now I sometimes want (to believe) this loss is an illusion.
Landmark
My life had to continue, despite my great desire for it to stop for a little bit to reflect. I moved into my friend's house for the first part of the summer just to take summer school. My friends subletted their rooms to other people, so I was living in a house with 4 strangers. I was a bit concerned, but it turned out that we got along pretty well. I was told things were a bit rough after I left. I guess I'm a great harmonist.
I set off for Sherbrooke, Quebec. Before deciding, I wasn't sure if I want to do the Explore Program again. Thank goodness I chose to do it. In addition to my improved French, I learned more on gaining optimism back to my life. Making friends from different age group, background, and regions, can help you learn a lot about life and yourself. I learned to appreciate the talents and qualities I have.
After the program, I travelled to Montreal, Ottawa, Kingston, and Niagara Falls before going straight back into residence in Toronto. It was a bit of a challenge travelling by myself, especially with my entire closet. I needed to relax and enjoy before the school year can challenge me. I was happy I did.
Return
It's always good to be settled. I was really thrilled to get on the bus back to Toronto and settle in my residence room immediately. Of course, seeing familiar faces is a major bonus. However, seeing new faces is great too. Made new friends in residence, in new classes, in new student clubs, while enriching old friendships, like going clubbing (finally) for birthdays and sharing them my summer stories and new dreams.
Yet, things can't always be that smooth right? Yup, the notorious strike happened. There hasn't been any updates, but I hope it can come to an end in 2009.
Learned
People say 18 is when you transition to reach true adulthood, but they never say how hard it can be. Maybe that's why the legal adult age in most areas of Canada is 19? Just a thought. Thank goodness I survived 18 (pun intended), and I have some thoughts I've developed after reflection.
People Do Care
Whoever said that people in university don't care (*COUGHSENIORTOPICSCOUGH*) is UNDISPUTEDLY WRONG. People DO care. It's a matter of your choice and the people you want to share your thoughts. When I was down, I did feel like people didn't care, but I had to take a risk and trust some of my friends that they will listen, care, and provide some insight. Some did and didn't; the ones that did are my very close friends now. There's nothing wrong making many friends, but choose wisely for some can take without return.
You Can't Fake It
I came across this phrase when I was attending a session at the career center. The presenter was talking about authentic conversation with a stranger. If you are not interested or don't have the knowledge in the topic of the discussion, don't even try squeezing out a drop of interest or digging out two cents: you just don't have it so stop. Be and stay true. People can tell when you're faking it, which can go against you.
Appreciate Yourself
I've noticed that so many people want to be someone else or devalue themselves. I don't understand the rationale; frankly I don't think there is one for that kind of behaviour. Everyone has something that other people don't have. I'm horrible in writing essays, sciences and mathematics, and I admire those who excell in them, but some people don't appreciate or value the talent and skill they have. I was kind of like that, but after going to Quebec I've learned to appreciate myself more. I encourage everyone else to find the talent, quality, or skill they have. Use those virtuously for your own advantage, whether for personal or professional life.
Consistency and Commitment Reward You
Whatever your goal is, if you want it, you must commit and be consistent. I wanted to lose some weight so committed 4 days per week for the gym, and (OMG) IT WORKED (and still does)!!! Do not think that you can get anything by just saying. HELLO, OF COURRRRSE it's easier said than done. You choose: Do the work or be the jerk.
2009 Expect
I hope I've experienced the worst. I do not wish to experience something horrifying again. No, I don't, and I'm serious. However, after this transition, I'm more optimistic and thankful about life, personal and professional and academic. Suddenly being too confident like before isn't a smart move. I can only build my future and confidence in small increments. It might not be that great, but that's what I want. I don't know what 2009 holds for me. But I can bravely face the future. Papers, finals, MUN, Netherlands, Valencia, Europe, work, graduate school, and many more.
December 7, 2008
A Town Where You Can See the Ocean
During my shift I was really bored. There were no guests coming in or out of the building. Honestly, I've never ever been that bored during my shift. I guess since it was starting to be December, and snowy, people are just leaving I decided to do some youtube-ing, which I shouldn't have been doing. I came across this music piece from Kiki's Delivery Service (again): A Town Where You Can See the Ocean (海の見える街). It's by Joe Hisaishi (久石譲). Every time I listen to this I think of... Valencia, imagining myself voyaging through the medieval streets of the city. This music just has this excitement, curiosity, and joy of traveling and exploring. It totally has an European feel. And it actually has a Spanish flavour to it when performed on the classical guitar.
I guess it can be related to any destination that I've never been to, like The Hague, Netherlands, where I'll be going in March for World MUN. It'll be my first European country I've ever been! Honestly, this year has been pretty good to me. I'm just happy that I was more involved in school
December 3, 2008
Preparation. Return. Countdown.
As I wait for my food to cook before going for exercise, I'm also cleaning the room and preparing things I want to take back to Taiwan.
My Italian friend once told me that his mom said that people who clean their rooms regularly to maintain order in their own personal space are clean in their soul and life.
Um. Hmm. I clean my room, but I wouldn't concur with the "clean soul and life" part of the statement. But sometimes cleaning my room gives me a great sense of immediate accomplishment. Like, you're in control of your life, and your action is rewarded immediately.
Pick up dirty socks and clothes ---> room less dirty
Rearrange books and stationary items ----> more aesthetics on the bookshelf
Vaccuum the carpet ----> healthier personal environment
Il y a beaucoup de vêtements que j'ai déjà mises, mais maintenant ils sont trop grands pour moi, parce que j'ai perdu beaucoup de poids. Je vais les apporter à Taïwan, pour mon papan, parce que... um... parce qu'il a pris du poids.
Sé que quedo solamente para 3 semanas en Taiwán, pero pienso que es suficiente para visitir mis parientes y amigos. Estoy emocionado.
但是要走之前, 還是得要把一些事情處理. 開會, 面試, 和更多活動
倒數11天
November 29, 2008
Reminiscence. Friends. Growth
I was reminiscing few hours ago. I remembered the time I had in high school, and I compared and contrasted with that of university.
Both are definitely different. I'm not talking about academics, but social life.
People who have known me since elementary, middle school, or high school will find me a happy person all the time. It is true, I was happy and somewhat airy. But, like any other adolescent, I didn't have all so fabulous time in high school. No, I was not depressed; I just want to clarify that I did somewhat struggled to associate with my peers. I did not associate or hang out with people I didn't like, thanks to my observant quality and good judgement. Yet, that did not prevent me from hateful comments or rumors against me.
I tried really hard not to let those comments affect me, but it was really hard when things were so obvious and that I can point things out easily. I was somewhat self-conscious of my actions, behaviour, words, and many more. I felt I started to be about pleasing people, which let to some discomfort.
While I was in high school, I was really positive that I was a very approachable, warm, kind-hearted boy, but yet there were some peers, students, teachers, and faculty members who expressed some disatisfaction or distaste against me. I actually felt that I had social problems, as if I was a distant, cold, mean-hearted person.
But thank goodness high school was only four years. Ever since coming to Canada, I've learned and grown to be a better person. Quebec was my first stop and I made lots of friends, same with Toronto and again in Sherbrooke. I've learned I was not the one who had problems. I made friends easily and people are happy to see me. It's not my problem that people don't like me. That's their problem. With this in mind, I have rebuilt and regained the confidence I had lost.
I'll be going back to Taiwan, and I will visit Morrison, since I was there for 12 years. I know there will still be some people who did not like me, and not surprisingly they will be talking things about me. Wether they are good or bad, I don't care.
I'm only visiting the Morrison I know, which only includes the people I care and those who cared for me.
Both are definitely different. I'm not talking about academics, but social life.
People who have known me since elementary, middle school, or high school will find me a happy person all the time. It is true, I was happy and somewhat airy. But, like any other adolescent, I didn't have all so fabulous time in high school. No, I was not depressed; I just want to clarify that I did somewhat struggled to associate with my peers. I did not associate or hang out with people I didn't like, thanks to my observant quality and good judgement. Yet, that did not prevent me from hateful comments or rumors against me.
I tried really hard not to let those comments affect me, but it was really hard when things were so obvious and that I can point things out easily. I was somewhat self-conscious of my actions, behaviour, words, and many more. I felt I started to be about pleasing people, which let to some discomfort.
While I was in high school, I was really positive that I was a very approachable, warm, kind-hearted boy, but yet there were some peers, students, teachers, and faculty members who expressed some disatisfaction or distaste against me. I actually felt that I had social problems, as if I was a distant, cold, mean-hearted person.
But thank goodness high school was only four years. Ever since coming to Canada, I've learned and grown to be a better person. Quebec was my first stop and I made lots of friends, same with Toronto and again in Sherbrooke. I've learned I was not the one who had problems. I made friends easily and people are happy to see me. It's not my problem that people don't like me. That's their problem. With this in mind, I have rebuilt and regained the confidence I had lost.
I'll be going back to Taiwan, and I will visit Morrison, since I was there for 12 years. I know there will still be some people who did not like me, and not surprisingly they will be talking things about me. Wether they are good or bad, I don't care.
I'm only visiting the Morrison I know, which only includes the people I care and those who cared for me.
November 24, 2008
Lo Quiero Actualmente?
I just went over my exchange application today. It's really somewhat a hastle. I need departamental confirmation, but with the strike it's really really hard to get a hold of the academic people, since all academic activities are suspended. And so far, ha, a lot of the administrators or secretaries aren't very student-friendly, which means I will have a problem getting a hold of those directors or advisors.
In addition to that, let's say if I do get to go to Spain, well, more questions pop up:
Where do I live? Residence or share an apartment with strangers? How do I find it?
Do I need to open a bank account? What will I need to do it?
How will I adjust to the lifestyle?
Will I find other Canadians or English-speaking people who are like me?
How much will I spend?
What do I do once my year is over: move back to Canada or travel? For how long?
What will happen to me? Will I enjoy my time?
Will I be able to face the biggest challenge I have up to this point of my life?
Con estas preguntas, tengo miedo.
Do I really want this?
Do I really want to spend time and money for this when I have so many concerns and when so many things need to be considered?
People see the good side of this experience, but bad things can happen too! If something bad or wrong happens, um, it's not like my good friends are easy to contact or available to listen to me.
But, as Spanish always say:
Qué será,
Será.
I can only go ahead and finish the application.
In addition to that, let's say if I do get to go to Spain, well, more questions pop up:
Where do I live? Residence or share an apartment with strangers? How do I find it?
Do I need to open a bank account? What will I need to do it?
How will I adjust to the lifestyle?
Will I find other Canadians or English-speaking people who are like me?
How much will I spend?
What do I do once my year is over: move back to Canada or travel? For how long?
What will happen to me? Will I enjoy my time?
Will I be able to face the biggest challenge I have up to this point of my life?
Con estas preguntas, tengo miedo.
Do I really want this?
Do I really want to spend time and money for this when I have so many concerns and when so many things need to be considered?
People see the good side of this experience, but bad things can happen too! If something bad or wrong happens, um, it's not like my good friends are easy to contact or available to listen to me.
But, as Spanish always say:
Qué será,
Será.
I can only go ahead and finish the application.
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