2. What have you done? 

Joined an online sewing course on basic sewing skills by Denise Byrons through Skillshare, with daily practice sessions, a PDF workbook and one project submission. I finally implemented the techniques I learnt to make a basic 2-ply face mask, a KF94 cotton face mask with filter pocket and finally a collared shirt after practicing and perfecting my seams, straight and curved stitches. Additionally, learned how to sew button holes and yokes of shirt on other platforms such as YouTube. 

3. Points to remember from week 1! 

I learned from the class and through trial and error that to ensure the final garment appears well made, we should: 

 Cut along the grain of the fabric – measure twice and cut once, standardise seam allowance (can use washi tape on the sewing machine), pull back thread and start with a back stitch before beginning to sew to lock in the stitch and ensure no knots piling in the machine.
And finally, practice as many times on scrap fabric before starting on the project 

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

Initially I was excited to go through the classes and was eager to make my own garment – the practice sessions on scrap material can get redundant, but proved worthwhile when it comes to making a good finish.
 I was nervous as I began progressing from practicing on scraps to measuring and cutting pieces for my finished project as I knew if I messed up, it would be a waste of the material I bought.
Ultimately, I was proud of myself when I could see the shirt slowly coming together after days of working on it. 

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

As I was learning it online, if I had any questions or confusions, I had to personally search up answers to it and troubleshoot any issues I faced while sewing on forums or YouTube videos.
 Since it was my first time sewing, there were a few tools I did not have and had to find a work around or make-shift my own equivalent. As I didn’t have a button foot – I had to figure out how to make symmetrical button holes and it was quite a time consuming finishing touch. 

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far 

 Very fulfilling 

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2) 

I will begin Phase 2: Read and understand basic commercial sewing patterns using a skillshare course as well. This will help me sew garments independently, and will be a good foundation for Phase 3: Learn how to alter dress patterns, so I will be able to customize it to my liking. 

Name: Nurin Izzah Binti Mohd Rizam 

Matric Number: A180927

Date: 24th July to 28th July 2023

2. What have you done

For my elective posting, I have decided to join Cosmetology and Fashion Design Art Programs at Kolej Vokasional ERT Setapak, KL. First 2 weeks in Cosmetology and another 2 weeks in Fashion Design Art with the 1st year students. I am joining both their theory and practical classes. 

I was introduced to basic knowledge of safety, hygiene and maintenance of a salon and ethics as a beautician. For any type of business, it is stated by the law that the workplace must be a fully hygienic environment, especially for establishments like hair or beauty salons that deal with many different people everyday. I learned about proper PPE used by beauticians, SOPs of salons, maintaining high standards of hygiene to prevent risk of cross contamination and also methods of sterilization of equipment used in salons. It was similar to what I have learned in medical school. They also learned a bit about common diseases that can occur in salons. It was very interesting to learn it from different field perspectives. I also was given the opportunity to share a bit about safety and hygiene in the hospitals.

For 1st year students, their workshop focused on Basic Facial and Basic Make Up Services. This week I joined their Basic Facial workshop. They have their own salons and spa for the students to practice. It was really fascinating. They taught me all the procedures from consultation with customers, hygiene and PPE, preparation of equipment, facial massage and mask, then ended with a follow up appointment. I also learned about the function of instruments they commonly use at salons like face steamers and magnifying lamps.

At the first workshop, I only observed the students doing it. One group acts as beautician while the other group as customers, then they switch after one hour. It was so much fun and interesting. Then at the end of the week, I tried to do a facial massage with one of the students.

3.Points to remember from week 1

I learned that it was not simple to become a beautician. It is more than just massaging or applying a mask to the customer face, which actually requires a certain technique. They also need to be very disciplined, maintaining hygiene and ensuring customers' comfort from the start to the end of sessions. Dealing with people's faces is something that should not be taken easily. It is one of the most common routes of transmission of various diseases like Covid. They have a strict rule regarding hygiene during procedure just like us healthcare workers.

I also noticed that there were a lot of similarities between beauticians and healthcare workers in terms of how they deal with customers. Beauticians also need to consult customers about the procedures, benefits and complications that can arise from it, any risk factors, few questions about allergies and general health. At the end of every session, they also need to follow up with their customers. See if there are any unwanted reactions or complications, and progress. 

Dealing with people requires great communication skills. It is a key to successful business. Poor communication with clients can lead to misunderstanding that may lead to poor results.

It was a very fun and interesting week learning something new. I was so grateful for the teachers and students for accepting me in their class suddenly and helping me throughout the weeks. They were very friendly and I am excited for next week's classes.. 

I was very nervous at first as the course I am taking was very different from what I have learned before. I personally rarely wear makeup, and I don’t have any skin care routine that I follow. Let's just say I was not really into beauty products before, so I don’t really have much knowledge about cosmetology. The students are also already in their 11th week, so I was afraid that I would not be able to catch up. There was also a 7 year gap between me and the students so I was worried I would not be able to get along with them. But they were very friendly and helped me a lot. They lend me their notes and let me observe their works. It's not  difficult to get comfortable with them, so I was really grateful.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Pretty splendid

Next week, I am joining Aesthetic Service Consultation theory class and Make Up Service Practical class. I am planning to practice make up with my sister. 

 

 

- Anis Farzana Binti Faizal

- A182938

- 24th - 29^th July 2023 

 

For the first week of my elective posting, I was introduced to a lot of new things related to sewing. I was first introduced to soft furnishings! I also learned about the types of fabrics used, the color theory, types of soft furnishings as well as some of the basic stitches used for these items. I learned most of it through books and YouTube videos provided by my instructor. Besides that, I was also introduced to cross stitching, and I also had the chance to make a few basic hand embroidery stitches which was somehow related to cross stitching. Lastly, for this week, I was also thought on using the sewing machine and at the same time I learned about the parts of the machine which I didn’t know about before.

 

Since it was only the first week/phase there’s so much more that I should work on and look forward to but being patient and trusting the process definitely should be the points that I would like to highlight. This is because sewing or doing activities related to that requires a lot of patience as it takes a lot of time for it to get done. Even the basic hand stitches took me hours!!

 

As a person who is new to this and is also a beginner, I think this activity/course is really interesting as it provides me with new experiences, knowledge and a new skill I’d never thought I learn. Although at first, I was in doubt because I wasn’t good at stitching or sewing, but having a good start such as making basic hand stitches made me change my mind because as time goes by while completing this course, I think I’ll improve and become more confident. Learning about fabrics and colors are exciting as well!

 

Starting off and testing my skills with basic hand stitches was quite difficult at first because it was confusing especially when it requires specific steps and techniques. However, after making 2 to 3 stitches, I managed to get used to the techniques and was able to do the following stitches with ease. Initially, I thought the stitches would be done within an hour because it looked simple, but it actually took me almost 3 hours and more, which shows that making this is actually challenging. Luckily, the outcome was satisfying and perfect. 

 

Fun, Exciting!

 

For the 2^nd week, I’ll be discovering and focusing on doing more of cross stitching such as making simple flower designs! Looking forward to it!

 I have joined a beginner’s 4-week crochet online class by Krista. The first week of this course started on building up my understanding of the basics of crochet. I have been introduced to this craft that uses a hook and yarn to create various fabric patterns. I have learned about the different types of crochet hooks, their sizes, and materials, which impact the final size and drape of my projects. Additionally, I have explored various crochet yarn options, including different fibers, weights, and colors, each contributing to unique textures and appearances in my finished work. Lastly, I have started my hands-on journey by learning foundation chain, the starting point for most crochet projects and the single crochet stitch, one of the basic crochet stitches.  

 

 

a) Crochet vs Knitting 

Crocheting is easier than knitting for several reasons. First, crochet stitches are larger, making it faster to create items, though it may use more yarn. Second, correcting crochet mistakes is simpler, you can unravel a few stitches and continue without requiring tools. Crochet is easier for beginners as it only requires fewer techniques and tools. 

 

b) Crochet Abbreviations 

Crochet abbreviations are essential when making a crochet project. Designers, publishers, and companies often use abbreviations to refer a crochet stitches. 

 

c) Crochet Hook 

Crochet hooks come in many sizes. The size of the hook affects the final size and drape of the crochet project. 

 

 

I am excited to finally have time to properly learn crocheting. I have always wanted to learn how to crochet as it is an enjoyable hobby with a wide range of projects you can make, from clothing to home decor items. Before this, I had no idea that there is so much to understand about the basics of crochet until I started this course. At first, I was not familiar with the different sizes of crochet hooks and thought that the bigger the sizes, the easier it would be for someone like me with zero knowledge about crocheting. Turns out it is not! In the first week of this course, I have started building up my understanding of what crochet is, its terminology, and the supplies I will use. To sum up, this week was eye-opening for me and taught me not to rush things. 

 

 

In the beginning of my hands-on journey, I am struggling to get the perfect tension on my yarn when crocheting. Tension of a crochet project refers to how loose or tight the yarn is when crocheting. To have a uniform pattern, the tension on the yarn throughout the project have to be consistent. I have learned that I have to hold the yarn and hook correctly to get the correct tension that I need on the yarn. Thus, I have tried different yarn-holding techniques to look for the most comfortable way. I have also searched for other online tutorials to seek guidance from expert to enhance my skills. 

 

 

Informative, Fun 

 

 

Next week, I will be focusing on learning the rest of the basic crochet stitches such as: 

a) Half double crochet stitch 

b) Double crochet stitch 

c) Treble (triple) crochet stitch 

d) Slip stitch 

 

Nur Amira Atiqah binti Che Shuib
A174324
24-28 July 2023

2.What have you done?

For my Elective posting, I decided to join one of GIATMARA skills programs which is the Fashion and Technology program and basically I learned how to make dresses and accessories using high speed sewing machines. This center is located at Temerloh, Pahang. In the first week, I learned how to train myself using the machines safely. I started by only using papers first up until i can balance my speed together with balance on maintaining the sewer. Then I move on to using sample clothes. On the third day, i made polar for tote bag and i cut the clothes by pieces that i need. After ensuring the measurement of the pieces precise each other, i started to join the pieces together by sewing them correctly. In about 3 days, i was done with my very first own cute tote bag which made from scratch.

3. Points to remember from week 1

Always keep in mind and be careful every time handing the machine. be focused when the machine is on and immediately turn off the machine after use it or whenever you need to leave the workplace. Measurement of each polar is important which implies the final result of the project

4. our feelings & thoughts

Since this is my first experience on sewing, i am really excited for my very first project. I am very satisfied whenever I can finish every task I have been assigned by my supervisor, especially when my tote bag is done. I think that this activity is not only to develop my new skills, but it is also one way to release stress. In addition i had a lot of fun throughout this week.

During my first time of handling sewing machine, i found out it was not as easy i thought. I have to practice by using mere papers first in order to make my dew more neat, straight and stable. i used bunch of papers and it took me almost 2 days just practicing by papers. Then only I move on to sew with clothes. I was tough for me to have a perfect sew pattern in a short time of period but i do practice a lot and my teacher help me a lot too.

Interesting and challenging 

i am planning to make a blouse pole, which using my own measurement. Then cut the fabrics using pole. and make the blouse 

Name: Nurul Hazira Binti Rahamathulla 

Matric number: A174290 

Date: 28 June 2023 – 4 July 2023 

 
2. What have you done? 
For my elective posting, I started working as a clinical assistant in my neighborhood clinic named Klinik Aman. I started my job at the end of June and planned to do it for about 1.5 months. The reason I wanted to work in a clinic setting is because I wanted to experience the cases and situation that is handled in clinic setting as this would definitely help in my future career. My job in the first week was mostly getting patient registered and asking to fill up relevant forms. In the clinic, the patient will need to register and take their number in a kiosk prepared, so I was mostly in charge of teaching patient on how to use the kiosk. Then most of patient coming will be under company panel with a third part company. So I had to give them the respective third party forms to them. 

3. Points to remember from week 1! 

Points to remember from my week 1 are that I need to be more confidence in handling difficult patient and their family members. As in hospital, I mostly interact with patients mainly but in the clinic, patients are always accompanied with family members, so dealing with them in a smart and polite way is always a point to remember. Secondly, in the clinic we get to meet lots of foreign patients that did their FOMEMA medical checkup before starting working. This was the first time I get to know more about FOMEMA as I have only heard them briefly in public health topic. 

 

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

My feelings were anxious and excited as it was a new environment and people for me. So I had to try to adapt to the situation as soon as possible. But I still want to try my best to learn new things and be smoother in work that I do. My thoughts for now mainly focuses on having a good attitude and a positive energy so that coming days will be better. 

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

Difficulties that I had in my first week was mainly remembering the third party group under common company and what are the next steps supposed to be taken in order to register the patient. I take down notes on my notebook when a senior clinic assistant teaches me. I did also try to memorize few common company as well. Other difficulties were as well answering patient’s questions regarding any health screening or any other stuff. Since this is my first time, I had to ask my senior about them and relied to the patient. 

 

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far 

The first word to describe my elective posting will be learning. When I first joined, the registration part was all new to me, so I had to learn in order to be able to service. The next word will be dedication. I think dedication is really an important attitude in a new environment and people. 

 
7. Your plan for next week (Week 2) 

My plan for week 2 will be to memorize majority company third party registration steps and broaden my job scope like helping in dispensing medications and preparing needful items in the clinic. 

Name : Preesha Shanmugarajah
Matrics No : A173350
Date : 24th - 30th July

2. What have you done?
I have chosen to work as a barista / service crew at a cafe called Urban Daybreak in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur. Like the name suggests, the cafe only opens during the day 7.30am till 5.30pm. There are 2 different shifts in a day; the first shift starts at 7am till 3pm, while the second shift starts at 9.30am till 5.30pm. I usually work the first shift so that I get to go home earlier and still have the rest of the day to have the right work-life balance. This allowed me to learn opening procedures, such as turning on the music, opening the cash register and cleaning the floor as well as the utensils & plates. During my first week, I learned to work the floor, by welcoming customers in and explaining to them our online order system as we use a QR scanning system. I also learned to manually key in their orders as the customers of the older age groups had some trouble with ordering online.
Other than working the floor, I also learned to make coffee, fancy coffee :D My colleagues taught my the steps from grinding the beans to pouring the milk. There are so many different types of coffee; latte, cappuccino, macchiato, long black, flat white and piccolo latte. Each of which require different number of shots,  different amounts of milk and different levels of steaming. I struggled a little but by the end of the week, I was getting my steps right. Fun fact : its a pet friendly cafe and we get to hold and play with cute little dogs and cats!

3. Points to remember from week 1!
I would like to remember the steps of making coffee, for each type as well as the method of steaming milk. I also need to focus on PR for the floor, this means to refill water when its finishing and to check on the customers to see if their food was alright and if they're satisfied with their food.
 
4. Your feelings & thoughts
I started out feeling pretty excited. I do realise that it does get tiring and I'm starting to realise that the working life is tiring. So I'm probably appreciating the student life just a bit more.  However, it does get fun too working with colleagues and moving around the cafe, meeting new people and having nice conversations.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?
I do realise that dealing with customers isn't easy, some people can be really difficult and rude but we are taught to deal with them accordingly. "Customers are always right!". My colleagues do help ease the situation or to just look at the bright side and take it easy.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far
Exciting, Tedious

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)
I plan to work on my coffee making, to make it a seamless procedure and to focus on customer connections. I also intend to learn how to do latte art in the following week.