Japan 2013 - Before the Visit

I was thrilled when I found out that I was chosen as one of the delegates representing Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) of UNIMAS to visit Japan.  In my mind, I was beyond ecstatic to be able to cross one of the things on my bucket list.

From the perspective of my faculty-mates and I, the 'journey' before the actual visit was a little challenging (but totally worthwhile).  Why so?  First of all, we had to be selected among many of our faculty-mates who had submitted resumes for the programme.  Then, we were further screened through an interview session.  I'm sure all of us who applied were hoping to be chosen.  So, I felt lucky to become one of the chosen ones.  Those who managed to make it to the final list of delegates were then briefed that it was necessary for us to come up with activities as a fund-raising effort in order to generate our pocket money for the visit.  Honestly, it was tough for us since we were still students and some of us had just recently completed our study at that time.  Despite that, we needed to at least put an effort.  I'm glad that we did, not only because of the fund that we managed to come up with, but also because it allowed us to get to know each other before the visit.  If we were almost like complete strangers when we started the visit, it would be awkward and less fun, wouldn't it?  ^o^

After several meetings and discussions, we decided to open up booth, selling mainly sweet corn and warm drinks.  We also sold some souvenirs and cosmetic products, thanks to generous suppliers.  For slightly more than a month, we opened our booth on every Monday until Thursday on weekly basis.  A duty roster was produced to divide our shifts.  As for every Friday, we carried out a car-wash service next to our faculty building.

What made the whole thing extra challenging for me was that I had to juggle between my part-time job, convocation preparation, and duty shifts for the fund-raising activities.  I tried my best to pull it together and thanks to the support that I received from every side, I made it through.  We made it through!

I never had the chance to properly express my gratitude to those who had worked hard in the fund-raising activities.  So, thank you very much for being helpful!