TEO CHEEN SHENG's Reflection /
Computing Gala Reflection

Participating in the Computing Gala as the Vice Secretary has been an incredibly fulfilling experience, allowing me to contribute to the celebration of excellence within our faculty and fostering my personal growth in various ways. Throughout my involvement, I had the opportunity to develop and refine numerous graduate attributes that will undoubtedly benefit me in my academic and professional pursuits.

One of the key attributes I gained from this event is leadership skills. As the Vice Secretary, I was entrusted with a leadership role within the organizing committee. This responsibility provided me with a platform to enhance my leadership abilities by effectively coordinating and guiding team members. I learned to delegate tasks, motivate others, and foster a collaborative environment where everyone's contributions were valued. Through this experience, I gained valuable insights into the different facets of leadership and the importance of leading by example.

Communication and interpersonal skills are vital attributes that I significantly developed during my role as the Vice Secretary. Working closely with faculty members, student award recipients, and external stakeholders necessitated effective communication. I learned to convey information clearly and concisely, actively listen to others, and adapt my communication style to suit different audiences. This experience improved my ability to articulate ideas, build rapport with others, and resolve conflicts in a professional and respectful manner.

The Computing Gala also provided me with ample opportunities to enhance my organizational and time management skills. Planning and organizing such a significant event required meticulous attention to detail, a systematic approach, and the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities. I actively contributed to creating comprehensive timelines, developing checklists, and ensuring that all necessary arrangements were made well in advance. I learned to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing circumstances. These skills have proven invaluable in managing my academic workload and other extracurricular commitments.

Attention to detail and problem-solving skills were other attributes that were honed during my involvement in the Computing Gala. As the Vice Secretary, I had to meticulously review arrangements and documentation to prevent any oversights or issues. This experience reinforced the importance of thoroughness and accuracy in event planning. Moreover, unexpected challenges arose during the event, such as last-minute changes or technical glitches. These situations demanded quick thinking, adaptability, and the ability to make informed decisions under pressure. By applying my problem-solving skills, I effectively addressed these challenges, fostering resilience and an ability to remain composed in demanding situations.

Another crucial attribute that I developed through the Computing Gala is teamwork and collaboration. The event's success was contingent on effective collaboration among the organizing committee and other student volunteers. I experienced firsthand the power of teamwork in achieving shared goals. Through active participation and open communication, we were able to pool our strengths, leverage diverse perspectives, and deliver a memorable event. This experience taught me the significance of teamwork and the ability to work harmoniously with others, even in high-pressure environments.

Ethics and professionalism were also essential aspects of my role as the Vice Secretary. I had to uphold the highest standards of professionalism while interacting with faculty members, student award recipients, and external stakeholders. Respecting confidentiality, adhering to codes of conduct, and demonstrating integrity were paramount. This experience instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and professionalism that I will carry forward in my future endeavors.

The Computing Gala provided an opportunity for networking and relationship building. I had the privilege of connecting with faculty members, student award recipients, and industry professionals attending the event. Engaging in meaningful conversations, exchanging ideas, and establishing connections within my field of interest were invaluable experiences. The relationships built during this event may open doors for future collaborations and professional growth.