Welcome to the elective posting journaling!

This journal platform will help you actively work on your development throughout your time in elective posting.

You can write, upload pictures/videos (lots of them please!)

Share your journey with your friends. Like & comment on others sharing too!

1. Your name, matric number, date

2. What have you done?

3. Points to remember from week 1!

4. Your feelings & thoughts

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

Don't forget to write the title of the project on top of your padlet.

Name: Eng Gui Wen

Matric Number: A187846

Date: 4 August 2024

2. What have you done?

• This week, I embarked on the exciting journey of establishing my own handmade crochet online business. The first step I took was deciding on a shop name, which was both fun and challenging. Following that, I designed a logo for my stickers, created a card header design for the packaging bags. I also carefully selected the product items, focusing on those that are less time-consuming to make such as small accessory, headscarf, small pouch and so on. My family and friends provided valuable input during this process from their perspective as a customer. To ensure the quality of my products, I chose a high-quality yarn brand manufactured in China. However, considering shipping duration, I decided to survey local sellers who offer the same brand with faster shipping and reasonable prices.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• Every aspect of the business, from packaging to product selection, requires attention to detail to help in building brand reputation and increase reliability of the shop.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

• I am filled with excitement as this is my first time establishing my own business, something I have dreamed of for a long time. It's thrilling to finally have the opportunity to make it happen. However, I quickly realized that starting a business requires meticulous attention to detail and careful planning.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

• The difficulty I encountered was estimating the size of the packaging plastic bags and boxes. It was hard to imagine the size of my products without physical samples. To overcome this, I crocheted sample products, which allowed me to make more accurate measurements and proceed with ordering the correct sizes for my card headers.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

• Exciting and organised.

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

• Looking ahead to next week, I plan to survey and purchase packaging boxes and decide on the material and design for the fabric tags. I'm eager to continue this journey and see my business take shape.

Tharshini Mohan, A187842, 4/8/24

2. What have you done?
In the first week of my elective posting, I focused on understanding the initial conditions of the palm oil plantation. I visited the plantation on the 29th of July to inspect the health of the palm oil trees. This included checking for any signs of disease or nutrient deficiencies and I also checked if the fruits could be harvested by the end of the week and most of the fruits were on the verge of maturing fully.

On the 3rd of August, I supervised a harvesting session. My primary role was to observe and ensure that the workers, who were mainly Indonesian, did not miss any ripe fruits. This involved monitoring their work closely, offering guidance, and ensuring that the harvesting process was efficient and thorough, even the loose fruits were collected and aided them as much as I could. The total harvest for that day amounted to 4.4 tons, which was an impressive yield for a 5-acre plot.

3. Points to remember from Week 1!

• The importance of close supervision during harvesting to ensure no ripe fruits were missed.

• Weather conditions can significantly impact the efficiency of the harvest.

• Worker fatigue can lead to a decline in productivity, so it's essential to manage breaks effectively.

• The overall health of the trees directly influences the yield, making regular inspections crucial.

4. Your feelings & thoughts
I felt a sense of accomplishment after the first week, especially seeing the substantial yield from the harvest. However, I also realized the challenges of managing a plantation, particularly under unpredictable weather conditions and ensuring that the workers remain motivated and productive. It was a humbling experience to see firsthand the hard work that goes into palm oil production and the importance of each role in the process.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?
One of the main difficulties during the harvest was the cloudy weather, which made it challenging to spot the ripe fruits as it was pretty dark due to the clouds and the shade of the trees. This was compounded by heavy rain towards the end of the day, which drenched everyone and made the work more strenuous. Additionally, the workers were getting exhausted as the day progressed, leading to some ripe fruits being missed by them and I had to be more observant.

To cope with these challenges, I ensured that the workers took short breaks to recharge, which helped them regain their focus and energy. I also tried to maintain a positive attitude, encouraging the workers to push through the difficulties. In the end, despite the challenges, we completed the harvest successfully.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far:

• Challenging

• Rewarding

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2):

• Conduct a detailed analysis of the harvested fruits to assess their quality and determine any areas for improvement.

• Plan and implement a fertilizer management strategy to enhance the health of the palm oil trees and also to increase the yield.

• Explore ways to improve worker efficiency, possibly through better tools or refined harvesting techniques.

• Begin researching market trends of the palm oil and keeping myself updated on the price of palm oil every week and to prepare a sales report comparing this harvest with the previous one.

Uthaya Kumar Rajasingam A189438

8th Aug 2024

2. What have you done?

After landing in Cochin on the 3rd of August, I attended an orientation that covered dormitory rules and outlined the teaching program. I was assigned to teach Grade 1 and 2 at Veli LP School and Grade 2 at GHS Mattancherry in Fort Kochi. I’m working alongside Rowan, who is from London, and together we’ve embarked on a diverse teaching journey. This week, our lessons focused on topics such as mother nature and water. We used a variety of methods to engage the students, including worksheets, storytelling, and reading comprehension exercises. We also introduced an interactive game of charades, where students guessed words based on pictures we drew on the board.

Additionally, we conducted a practical activity to explain the concept of float and sink. For this, we brought everyday items to class and placed them in water to demonstrate which objects float and which sink. This hands-on approach allowed the students to grasp the concept more effectively.

3. Points to remember from week 1

- Preparation and flexibility in lesson planning are crucial, especially when working with young students.

- Interactive activities, such as storytelling and games, significantly enhance student engagement and learning.

- Practical demonstrations, like the float and sink activity, help students understand complex concepts through direct experience.

- Building rapport with the students is key, and teamwork with a fellow teacher (like Rowan) can enhance classroom management and lesson delivery.

- Immersing oneself in the local culture, such as attending a Kathakali performance, adds valuable context to the teaching experience.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

This week has been both challenging and rewarding. I feel a sense of accomplishment seeing the students actively participate and grasp new concepts. The hands-on teaching approach we’ve taken has been particularly effective and enjoyable. I’ve also been deeply moved by the cultural richness of Fort Kochi. From the historical landmarks to the traditional Kathakali performance, every experience has added depth to my understanding of the local environment and its influence on education. The collaborative effort with Rowan has been a positive experience, as it allows us to bring different perspectives and teaching styles to the classroom.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

One of the primary challenges was the language barrier, which at times made it difficult to communicate certain concepts to the students. To overcome this, I relied on visual aids, gestures, and simplified English. The float and sink activity, for example, was particularly effective because it visually demonstrated the concept, reducing the need for verbal explanation. Additionally, working closely with Rowan has been beneficial in managing these challenges, as we often brainstorm together to find the best ways to communicate with our students.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Enriching & Interactive

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

Next week, I plan to introduce new topics, potentially covering basic math or science concepts, depending on the needs of the curriculum. I will also integrate more group activities to encourage teamwork and build social skills among the students. Furthermore, I aim to continue exploring Fort Kochi's cultural landmarks, as these experiences are not only personally fulfilling but also provide additional context and material that can be woven into the teaching curriculum.

Chantel Lam Bei Yii , A188828 , 8th August 2024

2. What have you done ?

- I arrived in Japan on July 21st to visit relatives and friends before starting my elective posting on August 5th. On my first day, I attended an orientation at the International Centre, where Ken provided a warm introduction. Following this, I joined the Hepatobiliary Surgery Department for a case conference conducted in Japanese. I was fortunate to have the support of doctors and students from the department, who assisted with translations to ensure I fully grasped the surgical details.

- I also participated in Japanese language classes, which covered essential greetings and conversational phrases. Although I had learned some basics in Malaysia, these classes helped me refine my skills and navigate daily interactions more effectively.

- In my free time, I enjoyed exploring Tokyo with new friends from Juntendo University or relaxing at the hostel’s common area. The hostel offered various Japanese traditional games, board games, and comics, which provided a great way to unwind and socialize.

- A highlight of my stay was a cultural workshop organized by Juntendo University students. The workshop focused on "Mizuhiki," decorative cords traditionally used as seals or amulets. Today, Mizuhiki are often seen as symbols of connections and relationships, and the workshop provided a meaningful insight into Japanese culture - the importance of human connections.

3. Points to remember from Phase 1

- Adaptability is important whereby when we open to new languages it will definitely bring us unexpected benefits in foreign countries

- Engaging with local doctors and students for translation highlights the importance of teamwork and communication in a global setting.

- Building friendships with people from different countries and exploring local culture (such as Mizuhiki) helps us to adapt and feel more integrated into a new environment.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

- I felt that being abroad alone for an extended period without my parents has been a transformative experience. It has highlighted both the challenges and the rewards of navigating a new environment independently. I feel thankful towards UKM for providing this opportunity, which has been crucial for my personal development and growth in independence. The initial apprehension of being away from home has gradually given way to a sense of empowerment and confidence as I adapt to new surroundings and responsibilities.

- One of the key realizations has been that "when there’s a will, there’s a way." Learning a new language has proven to be manageable, especially with the support of locals and consistent practice.

- Additionally, self-learning is crucial such as being proactive in seeking knowledge and asking challenging questions—rather than just routine ones—during clinicals and conferences enhances understanding, even if the standard might differ from what we’re used to learn during year 3 .This proactive approach in learning has allowed me to bridge gaps and gain valuable insights.

5. Any difficulties/ concerns ? How did you cope ?

- Navigating a new language environment proved challenging, especially with the difficulty of understanding Japanese and English spoken with a Japanese accent. To overcome this, I made a concerted effort to learn basic Japanese words and medical terms, which facilitated smoother communication. Immersing myself in the language and seeking assistance from local colleagues also helped bridge the gap.

- Additionally, as an introvert, participating in social gatherings with new people from various countries initially felt daunting. However, I reminded myself that the purpose of this clinical clerkship was to explore and embrace new experiences. This mindset helped me step out of my comfort zone and realize that these social interactions were less intimidating than I had imagined. Embracing these opportunities allowed me to build meaningful connections and gain valuable insights, ultimately enhancing my overall experience.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

- Rewarding

- Enriching

7. Your plan for next phase (phase2)

- The next phase will be focusing more to clinical stuffs such as in the operation theatre for Whipple procedure / Da Vinci Surgery / distal pancreatectomy and also simulation centre provided with many varieties of clinical procedures for students to try that I will visit during free time after surgery or conferences

- I’ll also travel to tourist spots at or near Tokyo during weekends such as Asakusa and Fuji

Lim Quan Pin, A180861, 30/7/2024

2. What have you done?

Before I started my trip to Japan, I have contacted the person in charge for Juntendo University Clinical Observership Program to know about the things to prepared and documents to apply for the program. After that, I done some medical checkups in order to make sure that I am in a good health before I started my trip. After I get my letter of acceptance from Juntendo University, I started to book my flight ticket and also my stay in Japan. I will be arriving at Haneda airport on 3rd August and I will be travelling around for sight seeing before I start my posting on 5th August. I also revise back my notes during my medical posting just to prepare myself for the common topics in the gastroenterology department of Juntendo University.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

Points to remember is that we have to do planning and as early as possible to avoid last minute job. Other than that, we also have to get ourselves prepared such as going through some notes to revise back the topics that I learn during medical posting in order to not become lost during my posting in a environemnt.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I felt excited because it was the first time I travel overseas since covid pandemic. The last time I travel aboard is about 5 years ago which makes me feel a little nervous especially I am travelling alone this time. Overall, I still feel lucky that I am able to get the chance to travel to the country that I wish to travel since I was small.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

This is the first time for me to travel alone to a country whereby English is not commonly used in daily life. Even though I manage to listen and speak Japanese in a few phrases, I still found that it is hard for me to communicate with people around me. Moreover, I am not able to read Japanese word which makes me felt clueless and lost. However, I still manage to cope that by using google translate app in order to get to my hotel.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

• Exciting

• Fun

  
  

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

For next week, I would like to observe a few procedure that I have never heard of especially Fecal Microbial Transplant (FMT). I also would like to meet other medical student there to know more about their medical system and learning environment.

2. What have you done?

   I arrived in Japan two weeks before my clinical observership at Juntendo University, which started on July 21st. During those initial weeks, I had the privilege of participating in the AMSC program, an incredible experience that allowed me to connect with peers from various countries. Through this program, I not only expanded my network but also gained unique insights into the healthcare systems and personal stories of my new friends. We explored several fascinating places in Japan together, further enriching my understanding of the country's culture and traditions.

   When my observership began, I was assigned to the General Thoracic Surgery department for the first week. There, I had the opportunity to observe a variety of surgeries, including lung segmentectomies, and witnessed different surgical approaches and techniques, such as the Da Vinci robotic surgeries and open lateral thoracotomies. These experiences provided me with a deeper appreciation of the advanced surgical technologies and methodologies employed in Japanese healthcare.

   
   

3. Points to remember from week 1!

   During my time in Japan, I had the privilege of participating in the AMSC program, where I connected with peers from various countries, gaining insights into different healthcare systems and exploring Japan’s rich culture. Arriving two weeks before my observership at Juntendo University began, I had time to acclimate and prepare. In the General Thoracic Surgery department, I observed diverse surgical procedures, including lung segmentectomies and Da Vinci robotic surgeries, which deepened my understanding of advanced surgical techniques. Despite facing a language barrier and initial nervousness due to my limited clinical experience, I was fortunate to receive guidance from senior participants and patient doctors, who helped me navigate the program and overcome these challenges. This experience not only enhanced my clinical knowledge but also allowed me to build international friendships, boosting my confidence and broadening my perspective on global healthcare practices.

4. Your feeling and thoughts

   I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as I stepped into a new cultural and clinical environment. The initial weeks allowed me to build friendships and explore the country, which was both exhilarating and enriching. However, as the clinical observership began, I felt a sense of apprehension due to the language barrier and my limited experience. Despite these challenges, I was met with kindness and support from both my peers and the medical staff, which eased my worries and made me feel more confident. Observing advanced surgeries and learning directly from experienced doctors was incredibly inspiring, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity. This experience not only expanded my medical knowledge but also strengthened my resolve to overcome obstacles and grow as a healthcare professional.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did u cope?

   During my observership in Japan, I encountered several challenges, the most significant being the language barrier, which made communication with the medical staff difficult. Additionally, I felt nervous due to my limited clinical experience, especially when compared to the more experienced participants. However, I coped by relying on the support of my peers, many of whom were senior and more familiar with the clinical setting. They guided me through the processes and helped bridge the communication gap with the hospital staff. The doctors were also incredibly patient, taking extra time to explain procedures and answer my questions. I focused on being open to learning and asking for help when needed, which allowed me to adapt to the environment and make the most of the experience despite the initial difficulties.

6. 2 words to describe EP progress so far

   Observe & Learn

7. Your plan for next week?

   Next week, I plan to continue deepening my understanding of the surgical procedures and techniques I observed during my first week. I aim to focus on specific areas where I felt less confident, such as understanding the nuances of robotic surgeries and the post-operative care process. I also intend to improve my communication skills by practicing medical terminology in Japanese and engaging more actively with the medical staff, despite the language barrier. Additionally, I hope to connect with more of my peers, exchanging knowledge and experiences to further enrich my learning. Overall, my goal is to build on the foundation I’ve established, expanding both my clinical knowledge and my ability to adapt to new challenges.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• Be proactive in joining the discussion in the class and do not afraid of making mistakes

• Oman culture is conservative, with strong Islamic influences.

• While many healthcare provider speak English, Arabic is the primary language spoken by patients.

• Be brave to try out things which may be scary to you, as long as it is safe.

4. Your feelings& thoughts

   I feel exciting and nervous at the same time. The exciting part is because it is the starting point of my very first exchange. When I see the social program for the next few weeks, I am excited to join and have fun. However, I also feel some disappointed as I do not have a direct supervisor in the hospital. Also, in Oman, there is lack of public transportation, thus, it is a problem for us to explore Oman. I am quite worried about the transportation for the following days.

   
   

5. Any difficulties/ concerns? How did you cope?

   Firstly, as my supervisor bring around 20-30 students at the same time, I think that I might get less opportunity to get teaching and attention from him. Therefore, I need to be independent and motivated to search for opportunities to learn in the hospital. I will need to ask around and search for learning chance.

   In addition, the OT in SQUH only allow 2-3 students at one time, however, there is too many exchange students, so I might not get the chance to scrub in. To cope with this, we can discuss a timetable among us so that everyone will get the chance.

   
   

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

   Adapting slowly, looking forward

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2).

   Able to join outpatient clinic and clerking patients in Oman. Continue to be searching learning opportunities in hospital. Improve the bonding with other exchange students.

NAME : THESIGAN GANESAN

MATRIC NUMBER: A188895

DATE : 01 AUG 2024

2. What have you done?

In the first week of my preparation for the medical volunteer program with IVHQ in India, I focused on gathering all necessary items and documents. I began by shopping for travel essentials, including scrubs, mosquito repellent, and a portable fan, to ensure I was well-equipped for my time in India. A significant part of my preparation involved obtaining my Certificate of Good Conduct from the Ministry of Affairs in Putrajaya. This required a two-day trip to Kuala Lumpur from my hometown, Penang.

Alongside these tasks, I dedicated time to completing the required documents for IVHQ. I successfully finished the online Volunteer Training Program, which provided valuable insights into the program and what to expect. To further enhance my preparation, I watched various vlogs and reviews from past volunteers who participated in similar medical projects, gaining perspective on their experiences.

I reached out to seniors who had previously volunteered with IVHQ in Nepal to gather any last-minute advice, which proved to be incredibly helpful. Additionally, I visited a money exchange to convert some cash into Indian Rupees for my upcoming trip. To keep my important documents organized, I prepared a small bag specifically for travel essentials.

Recognizing that I would be away from my family for two weeks, I made sure to spend quality time with them by going out for dinner. This allowed us to share some memorable moments before my departure. Finally, I packed a large suitcase filled with clothes and other necessities, ensuring I was ready for the journey ahead. Overall, my first week was a whirlwind of organization, preparation, and emotional connection with loved ones, setting a strong foundation for my upcoming adventure.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• Travel Essentials Shopping: I prioritized gathering essential items like scrubs, mosquito repellent, and a portable fan. This ensured I'm well-equipped for my medical volunteer experience in India.

• Obtaining Documents: I made a significant effort to secure my Certificate of Good Conduct from the Ministry of Affairs in Putrajaya during a two-day trip to Kuala Lumpur, demonstrating my commitment to fulfilling the program's requirements.

• Gathering Insights and Support: I sought advice from seniors who had participated in similar volunteer programs and watched vlogs from past volunteers. This proactive approach provided valuable insights and helped me feel more prepared for the challenges ahead.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

During the first week of my preparation for the medical volunteer program with IVHQ in India, I experienced a mix of excitement, anxiety, and determination. As I gathered travel essentials like scrubs and mosquito repellent, I felt a sense of anticipation about the journey ahead. Each item I purchased made the experience feel more real, heightening my eagerness to contribute to the medical community in India.

However, alongside this excitement, I also faced moments of anxiety, particularly when it came to obtaining my Certificate of Good Conduct. The two-day trip to Kuala Lumpur from Penang felt daunting, but I was determined to navigate the process and fulfill all requirements. This determination fueled my focus as I worked on completing the necessary documents for IVHQ, reinforcing my commitment to this opportunity.

Connecting with seniors who had previously volunteered provided a sense of reassurance. Their advice and shared experiences helped ease my concerns, giving me confidence in my decision to embark on this journey. Spending time with my family before my departure added an emotional layer to the week. As I prepared to leave for two weeks, I felt grateful for their support but also a bit melancholic about being away from them. Overall, my first week was a blend of preparation and reflection, solidifying my resolve to make the most of this incredible opportunity.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

1. Obtaining the Certificate of Good Conduct: Navigating the process of securing your Certificate of Good Conduct could have been stressful, especially given the two-day trip to Kuala Lumpur. The uncertainty of whether everything would go smoothly may have caused anxiety. To cope, I focused on planning the trip thoroughly and staying organized, which helped me manage the logistical aspects and minimize stress.

2. Feeling Overwhelmed by Preparations: The sheer volume of tasks—shopping for essentials, completing documents, and preparing for my trip—might have felt overwhelming at times. To cope, I prioritized my tasks and tackled them one by one. This systematic approach allowed me to manage my time effectively and maintain a clear sense of progress.

3. Separation from Family: Knowing I would be away from my family for two weeks likely brought feelings of sadness and concern about leaving them behind. To cope with this emotional challenge, I made a conscious effort to spend quality time with them, such as going out for dinner. This helped strengthen my emotional connections and provided a comforting sense of closure before my departure.

4. Anxiety about the Volunteer Experience: Anticipating the challenges of volunteering in a new environment could have caused some apprehension. To address this concern, I sought advice from seniors and watched vlogs of previous volunteers. This proactive approach not only provided practical tips but also reassured me about the experiences of others, helping to ease my worries.

By addressing these difficulties with thoughtful strategies, I reinforced my commitment to the program and prepared myself for the journey ahead.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Exciting and Challenging

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

In week 2, once I land in India, my primary focus will be on settling into my new environment and acclimating to the local culture. I plan to connect with the IVHQ team and fellow volunteers to establish a supportive network. Attending orientation sessions will be crucial to understanding the project’s objectives and guidelines. I’ll also explore the local area, getting familiar with essential services, such as nearby markets and transportation options. Additionally, I aim to immerse myself in the culture by trying local cuisine and participating in community activities. This plan will help me feel more comfortable and engaged as I begin my volunteer work.

Healing in the heart of India 🇮🇳: Medical Volunteering in New Delhi