Describe: What did you do?
Last month I joined a Chinese-English music performance event in my university. It was held in a big hall, and many students came. Some sang Chinese songs, and some performed English songs. There were traditional instruments, rap, and even band shows. One person sang a Chinese song called “Drunken Red Cliff” which was very powerful. The screen behind him showed a beautiful picture from Chinese history. It was not just music, but also culture sharing.

Reflect: How did you feel?
At the beginning, I just came as audience. I didn’t plan to perform or speak. But when I saw people on stage, especially Chinese students singing in English or foreigners trying Chinese lyrics, I feel very touched. It made me think, maybe I also can be more brave next time. I saw many students were also nervous, but they still stood there with smile and finished their songs. I feel respect and I feel this is what confidence means — not perfect, but try.

Reflect: What did you do well or not so well?
I didn’t perform, but I tried to talk to a few students after the event. I said “your singing was great” or “this song brings back memory”. I used English even I still afraid make mistake. But people were friendly and smiled back. I think I did good to not avoid conversation. But maybe I should prepare more small talk or ask more questions, not just give compliments.

Reflect: What did you learn?
I learn confidence is not come from being perfect. It comes from showing up and trying. I also learn culture can connect people. Music is a good way to communicate, even we speak different first language. It makes me want to express more in public, not only in classroom.

Action: What will you do next?
Next time, I will try to join a performance, maybe not sing, but help host or speak some sentence on stage. I will prepare some useful phrases and train my voice. I also want to invite some foreign classmates to watch together, and explain some Chinese song meaning to them.

Submission 2 - Week 12: additional 20 posts of activity and reflection - including evidence of engagement with academic texts. Also, remember to complete the Final Reflection.

You will need to provide five pieces of evidence and reflection for each chosen area.

These should be about 250 words each and will ideally include some sort of convincing evidence of engagement, i.e. summary, picture, video or screenshot.

You can use evidence from 

• one of your subjects;

• one of the activities we do;

• one of the external speakers;

• something that you do in your own time.

Add these to the five columns you have chosen 👉

Try to be specific.

• Based on your previous experience at university or career,
what aspect of this skill or area of knowledge do you want to develop?
• What reasons do you have for developing this skill or area of
knowledge/experience?
• How will you recognise success?
• What challenges/obstacles do you face with this skill or area of knowledge?

You should then highlight these five columns, representing five areas of knowledge/skills that you want to start to develop this semester. These are the 5 areas of engagement that will be graded for your assessment.

Throughout the semester we will engage with a series of activities and guest speakers that cover these areas.

How did you feel? Positively and negatively?
I felt excited but nervous at first. Speaking English with native speakers and other fluent learners can be intimidating. However, after a few minutes, I started to relax. The group was friendly, and the topic was relatable.

What did you do well/not so well?
I think I did well in keeping the conversation going and listening actively. I also managed to use some academic vocabulary I recently learned. However, I struggled a bit with pronunciation and sometimes had to repeat myself or slow down my speech.

Reflect: What challenges do you face with this skill?
My main challenge is confidence. I often second-guess myself when speaking English, especially in group settings. I also find it hard to understand different accents, which sometimes makes me miss important points in a discussion.

What did you learn/what was useful to you?
I learned that practice really does help. Each time I speak English in a real conversation, I feel more comfortable. I also noticed that when I prepare a few sentences or ideas before the discussion, I speak more smoothly.

What progress are you making?
Compared to a month ago, I am more fluent and less afraid of making mistakes. My vocabulary has also improved through regular participation and feedback from peers.

What would you do differently next time?
Next time, I want to record myself after the session to reflect on what I said and how I can improve. I also plan to prepare 2–3 phrases related to the topic beforehand.

How can you apply what you learnt?
I will apply these communication skills in class presentations, networking events, and eventually job interviews.

What do you need to do next?
I need to continue joining English Corner weekly, expand my vocabulary with topic-specific words, and work on my pronunciation through daily speaking practice.

I want to improve my academic English, focusing on writing essays, understanding research papers, and delivering clear presentations. These skills are crucial for succeeding in an international academic and professional environment.

Additionally, I want to enhance my listening comprehension, especially understanding different accents and complex academic discussions. This will help me participate more effectively in group discussions and networking opportunities.

What reasons do you have for developing this skill or area of knowledge/experience?

Improving my academic English will provide several benefits:

• Better communication: I will be able to express my ideas clearly in both academic and professional settings.

• Career opportunities: Many international jobs require strong English skills, and proficiency in English will increase my employability.

• Confidence in speaking and writing: Being able to express myself fluently will help me engage more actively in discussions and academic work.

Moreover, mastering academic English will enable me to analyze complex texts, critically evaluate information, and present arguments effectively—essential skills for management studies.

How will you recognize success?

I will measure my progress through several indicators:
Improved Writing: Fewer grammar and vocabulary mistakes in essays, with clearer structure and coherence.
Better Speaking Skills: Recording myself speaking and noticing improvements in fluency and pronunciation over time.
Increased Confidence: Feeling more comfortable speaking English with professors, classmates, and professionals in discussions.
Stronger Listening Skills: Understanding different English accents in academic lectures and professional conversations.

If I can comfortably present ideas, respond to questions naturally, and analyze research papers without frequent difficulties, I will consider my progress successful.

What challenges/obstacles do you face with this skill or area of knowledge?

Complex Academic Language: Some academic vocabulary and sentence structures are difficult to understand and use correctly.
Listening Difficulties: Different accents and fast speech make it hard to follow discussions, especially in group settings.
Speaking Anxiety: I sometimes feel nervous speaking English in front of others, worrying about making mistakes.
Time Management: Balancing English practice with coursework and other responsibilities can be challenging.

Action Plan to Overcome Challenges

Practice Active Reading & Writing: Read academic papers and summarize key points to improve comprehension and writing clarity.
Listen to Different English Accents: Watch TED Talks, podcasts, and news reports to improve listening skills.
Join Discussion Groups: Engage in class discussions and informal conversations to gain confidence in speaking.
Set Small Goals: Focus on improving one aspect at a time, such as learning five new academic words per week.

By following these strategies, I aim to enhance my academic English skills and perform better in an international academic and professional setting.

1. Short-term incentives (e.g., stock options, bonuses) can boost immediate performance but may lead to earnings manipulation and reduced long-term investment.

2. Executives under short-term pressure may prioritize financial engineering over genuine value creation, harming innovation and sustainable growth.

3. Long-term incentives, such as stockholding requirements, help executives focus on sustainable value rather than short-term profits.

The study suggests balancing short- and long-term incentives to ensure corporate longevity.

📌 Reflect

1️⃣ How did you feel?

• Surprised: Short-term incentives can cause significant harm if not balanced with long-term rewards.

• Agreed: Long-term incentives encourage sustainability, as seen in companies like Tesla, which require executives to hold stock for extended periods.

• Doubtful: Can all companies adopt long-term incentive structures, or do some industries require stronger short-term rewards?

2️⃣ What did you learn?

• Short-term incentives may encourage financial manipulation instead of true business growth.

• Long-term incentive plans improve strategic decision-making.

• Industries require customized incentive models based on their growth cycles.

📌 Action

✅ Next Steps:

1. Study financial statement manipulation techniques to understand short-term incentive risks.

2. Compare incentive strategies across industries to evaluate best practices.

3. Analyze regulatory measures that promote long-term corporate governance.

By applying these insights, I aim to enhance my financial analysis skills, make informed career choices, and contribute to sustainable business strategies.

On April 3rd, I joined the AECOM Green Futures workshop in my university. The event was about climate change, net-zero strategy, and green jobs. The speaker, Owen Callender, shared how he works with universities to reduce carbon emissions. After the talk, we were invited to form small groups and talk about our opinions. I sat with students from different countries and backgrounds, such as geography, sustainability, and business. We shared ideas about carbon market, career paths, and our personal interests.

Reflect: How did you feel?

At first I was nervous. I didn’t know anyone in my group, and the topic sounded a bit professional. I was worry maybe I don’t have enough knowledge. But when others started talking, I found they also came from different majors and just want to learn something new. So I also shared my view about green jobs and asked some questions. People in the group were friendly, and we listen to each other seriously. After some time, I feel more relaxed. It was a good experience to speak with people who care about similar topics.

Reflect: What did you do well or not so well?

I think I was brave to speak, even I made some grammar mistakes. I didn’t avoid talking just because I was not confident. I also listened carefully and asked follow-up questions like “Is this kind of job easy to find in China?” or “What kind of background do companies prefer?”. But sometimes I didn’t know how to express deeper opinions, so I just said “I agree” or “It’s interesting”.

Reflect: What did you learn?

I learned that networking is not about being professional. It’s about sharing your thought and being open. People understand you even if your English is not perfect. Also, I learn more about how people from different cultures think about sustainability.

Action: What will you do next?

Next time I join similar event, I will prepare 1–2 small topics to ask or discuss. I also want to talk to the speaker if possible. Even a short conversation is useful. I will try to speak more naturally and not worry too much about mistakes.

I read the article "Assessing the Effect of Compensation Packages, Work-Life Balance Policies, and Career Development Opportunities on Employee Retention." This study examines how salary, work-life balance (WLB) policies, and career development opportunities impact employee retention, especially in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The study used Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze data from 300 respondents. Findings include:

• Salary affects retention but is not the only factor.

• WLB policies significantly improve job satisfaction and reduce turnover.

• Career development opportunities are crucial for long-term employee commitment.

The research suggests that MSMEs can enhance employee loyalty through strategic HR policies, not just salary increases.

Reflect

1️⃣ How did you feel?

• Surprised that salary is not the sole determinant of retention.

• Agreed that WLB policies play a crucial role in job satisfaction.

• Uncertain whether the findings apply to all industries and cultures.

2️⃣ What did you learn?

• Retention is influenced by career growth, organizational culture, and work environment, not just salary.

• WLB policies are cost-effective yet highly beneficial for MSMEs.

Action

✅ Next Steps:

1. Learn PLS-SEM to improve my statistical analysis skills.

2. Compare retention strategies across different industries and countries.

3. Analyze real-world HR cases, especially companies excelling in WLB policies.

By applying these insights, I aim to improve my academic research, career decision-making, and management strategies.

Describe: What did you do?
I went to an English Corner in my university. This was my first time to join this kind of activity. When I arrived, I didn’t know anyone. I need to find a seat myself. This made me feel a bit nervous. Later, I sit next to two girls, one from Japan and one from South Korea. We talked in English. We introduced each other and played a simple English game together. We also talk about food, culture and daily life in UK.

Reflect: How did you feel?
At first, I feel shy and don’t know how to start the conversation. I was worry if I make grammar mistake or cannot understand others. Sometimes I didn’t catch what they said, because of their accent or speed. But they was very friendly and patient, so I feel a little more relaxed. Then I start to speak more and enjoy the talk.

Reflect: What did you do well or not so well?
I think I did well because I didn’t give up and I try to listen carefully. I asked simple questions like “What do you like in UK?” or “Do you miss food from your country?”. I keep smile and show I was interested. But I still don’t know how to keep the conversation long. Sometimes I only say short answer, and then feel quiet again.

Reflect: What did you learn?
I learn that English doesn’t need to be perfect. People just want to have friendly talk. If I try, they will understand me. I also learn that networking is not so hard, but need confidence and practice.

Action: What will you do next?
Next time I will prepare some topic before I go. I also want to talk with more people, not just sit in one group. I hope to speak more and become more natural in English. Mistakes are okay. I just need to speak more and more.

Describe: The article analyzes the impact of three key HR components—compensation, work-life balance, and career development—on employee retention using data from 300 respondents in MSMEs. It uses Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling to demonstrate the statistical significance of each factor.

Reflect: I found this article particularly useful because it bridges academic theory with real-world HR practices. It helped me realize that monetary incentives are only one part of a successful retention strategy. Before reading, I undervalued the importance of work-life balance and developmental opportunities. I experienced some difficulty understanding the SEM model methodology initially, but re-reading the result tables helped clarify how hypotheses were tested.

Analyse: This article is relevant to my Master's journey because it offers practical tools for employee management—an essential aspect of leadership. The findings challenge me to think more critically about the workplace environments I will one day create or manage. I learned the importance of investing in employees beyond salary, such as providing learning opportunities and supportive environments.

Evaluate: One of the article’s strengths lies in its detailed discussion of how MSMEs can overcome resource limitations by using flexible, people-centered policies. However, it lacks exploration of how cultural or regional factors might influence retention. This is something I plan to investigate further.

Action Plan: To apply this knowledge, I will reflect on how my futur

Describe: What did you do?
I read a really interesting article by Acheampong (2020) about what kind of rewards Generation Z prefers at work. It focused on how to attract and keep young employees, especially in the public sector. I chose this article because I wanted to understand what motivates my generation—and honestly, myself too—as I prepare to enter the job market.

Reflect: How did you feel?
I felt quite excited because it felt very relevant. I realized I actually agree with many of the findings—for example, how important flexibility, personal development, and work-life balance are to Gen Z. At the same time, I felt a bit overwhelmed by the academic language in some sections. It took me a while to understand the research design part.

Reflect: What did you do well/not so well?
I did a good job identifying the main ideas and connecting them to real-life situations. But I didn’t fully question the article’s limitations or think critically about how these preferences might change across countries or cultures.

Reflect: What challenges did you face?
The academic style was one challenge. Also, trying to reflect on how the article links to my future career wasn’t easy—I had to stop and really think deeply about it.

Reflect: What did you learn?
I learned that money isn't everything to Gen Z. We care about meaning, learning, and being respected. This made me rethink what kind of job I want and what sort of company I want to work for.

Reflect: What progress are you making?
I’m starting to read academic papers faster and with more purpose. I also take better notes now and ask myself questions while reading.

Action: What would you do differently next time?
Next time, I’ll try to compare more than one article to get a fuller picture. I’ll also prepare some background vocabulary beforehand.

Action: How can you apply what you learnt?
If I work in HR in the future, I’ll keep in mind that different generations have different values. I’ll use this insight to design better reward systems.

Action: What do you need to do next?
I need to read more about Gen Z in the workplace and maybe even talk to others to hear their views—learning shouldn’t stop with reading.

Describe: What did you do?
I read the article "Reward Management and Employee Performance in Keystone Foods LLC, USA" by Kerr et al. (2022). It explores how different types of rewards—financial and non-financial—affect employee motivation and performance. I chose this article because reward systems are a major topic in management, and I wanted to understand how companies actually apply these theories in the real world.

Reflect: How did you feel? Positively and negatively?
I found the article practical and easy to relate to. The examples from Keystone Foods made the ideas more real. I agreed with the point that rewarding employees properly isn’t just about paying them—it’s also about giving them good working conditions and support. However, I did feel the writing style was a bit repetitive and some points could’ve been more concise.

Reflect: What did you do well / not so well?
I was able to link the findings to what I’ve seen in my part-time jobs—employees are more engaged when they feel appreciated, even if the reward is just recognition. What I didn’t do so well was critically evaluating the research. I accepted most of the article without questioning its limitations or the lack of international perspective.

Reflect: What challenges did you face?
One challenge was applying the concepts to different sectors. The article focused on the food industry, but I wasn’t sure if the same strategies would work in tech or service companies. Also, understanding how reward strategies align with company culture took extra thinking.

Reflect: What did you learn / what was useful to you?
I learned that reward management is more than just HR policy—it’s a strategic tool to boost performance. When done well, it builds loyalty and motivation. This gave me ideas for how I might lead or manage teams in the future.

Reflect: What progress are you making?
I’ve become better at connecting academic theory with practical examples. I now look at business case studies with a more analytical mindset and try to ask “why” more often when reading.

Action: What would you do differently next time?
Next time, I’ll try to read similar case studies in other industries to compare. I also want to question the authors’ assumptions more and not accept every argument as correct.

Action: How can you apply what you learned?
In my future internships, I can suggest ways to improve employee engagement based on reward strategies. Even small changes—like regular feedback—can make a big difference.

Action: What do you need to do next?
I plan to read more about intrinsic vs. extrinsic rewards and take notes on how they impact performance in various fields. I will also try to reflect on my own preferences as an employee and use that understanding to manage others better in the future.

Describe: What did you do?
Last week, I joined a practical shooting session at a local outdoor range. I trained with a semi-automatic rifle, practicing target acquisition, accuracy, and rapid response drills. I participated with a small group of enthusiasts under the guidance of a certified instructor. We rotated between metal plates, paper silhouettes, and moving targets. I chose this activity because I’ve always had a passion for precision-based sports, and I wanted to push my focus and coordination to the next level.

Reflect: How did you feel? Positively and negatively?
Honestly, it was thrilling. I felt fully engaged the entire time. The sound of the shots, the feeling of controlling each breath before pulling the trigger—it was like a form of meditation with adrenaline. But I also felt pressure when others were watching. I missed a few shots early on, and that shook my confidence for a bit. Still, I reminded myself it was a learning process, not a competition.

Reflect: What did you do well / not so well?
I stayed calm under pressure and followed all the safety protocols. My reloads and trigger control improved compared to my last session. However, I noticed that my stance sometimes became too stiff, which affected my mobility between targets.

Reflect: What challenges did you face?
One major challenge was maintaining accuracy while moving quickly. In fast-paced drills, I tended to rush my aim. Also, shooting in low light conditions forced me to rely more on muscle memory and intuition.

Reflect: What did you learn / what was useful to you?
This session reminded me that shooting isn’t just about physical skill—it’s about mental discipline. It also showed me the importance of routine training. Improvement doesn’t come from talent alone but from consistent effort and reflection after each round.

Reflect: What progress are you making?
I’m now more aware of my shooting posture, and I’ve become faster at reacquiring targets. I also feel more confident handling the rifle and applying what I learn each session.

Action: What would you do differently next time?
Next time, I’ll record short clips of myself training to analyze my form. I also plan to slow down during fast drills so I can focus on precision, not just speed.

Action: How can you apply what you learned?
The focus and calm I practiced during shooting can help me in stressful academic or professional situations—especially when making fast decisions or managing group tasks.

Action: What do you need to do next?
I’ll sign up for a night shooting course to improve my performance under different conditions. I’ll also keep a personal log to track progress and reflect on each training day.

Describe: What did you do?
Over the past few months, I’ve been going to the gym around 4–5 times a week. My training mostly focuses on strength building—especially upper body workouts like bench press, dumbbell curls, and shoulder presses. I’ve also started tracking my diet to improve muscle definition. I usually go after class to relieve stress and improve both my physical health and mental focus.

Reflect: How did you feel? Positively and negatively?
Honestly, hitting the gym has become one of the best parts of my day. I feel strong, focused, and motivated when I see even small progress. That said, there are days when I feel sore, tired, or just unmotivated—especially if my schedule gets tight. But I’ve learned that discipline beats motivation. Showing up even when I don’t feel like it has taught me a lot about consistency.

Reflect: What did you do well / not so well?
I’ve been consistent and followed my training plan closely. I also learned to control my form instead of lifting heavier weights recklessly. However, I sometimes don’t stretch properly, which can lead to stiffness. My sleep schedule is also something I need to align better with my fitness goals.

Reflect: What challenges did you face?
One major challenge is balancing workouts with academic work. When deadlines pile up, gym time is the first thing I sacrifice. Another issue is diet—it’s hard to eat clean when I’m rushing between lectures and don’t have time to cook.

Reflect: What did you learn / what was useful to you?
Fitness has taught me that long-term progress depends on small, repeated efforts. I’ve also realized that physical confidence directly boosts my self-esteem and energy in daily life.

Reflect: What progress are you making?
I’ve built noticeable muscle mass, especially in my arms and shoulders. I’ve also gained strength—I can now bench press nearly 1.5 times my body weight. More importantly, I feel more focused and resilient.

Action: What would you do differently next time?
I’ll schedule in more rest days to avoid burnout and improve recovery. I’ll also stretch more and take warmups seriously to prevent injuries.

Action: How can you apply what you learned?
The discipline and consistency I’ve developed can directly help in academic and professional life—especially when it comes to long-term goals and stress management.

Action: What do you need to do next?
Next, I plan to set new strength targets and track my diet more strictly. I may also join a fitness community or group for more social motivation and accountability.

Reflect: How did you feel? Positively and negatively?
When I’m taking photos like this, I feel really relaxed and focused. It helps me slow down and look at things differently. I felt proud when I looked back at the photo—it felt meaningful, like I caught a quiet story. But sometimes I feel unsure, especially when people around me are watching me take pictures. I also get frustrated when the photo doesn’t match what I imagined.

Reflect: What did you do well / not so well?
I think I did well noticing details like light and shadows. I’ve improved at finding good angles and making things look clean and balanced. But I still struggle with editing—sometimes I over-edit or can’t get the colors right. I also forget to take photos regularly when life gets busy.

Reflect: What challenges did you face?
The biggest challenge is lighting. Natural light changes quickly, and sometimes the timing isn’t perfect. Another challenge is confidence—taking pictures in public still feels awkward sometimes.

Reflect: What did you learn / what was useful to you?
I learned to see beauty in small things. Even a cup of coffee or sunlight on a table can tell a story. It also helps me stay mindful and creative, even during stressful weeks.

Reflect: What progress are you making?
I’m getting better at capturing what I actually want to show. My photos feel more “me” now, and I’ve started sharing some with friends.

Action: What would you do differently next time?
Next time, I’ll try to explore different places and shoot in new lighting—maybe during sunrise or rain. I also want to practice editing without overdoing it.

Action: How can you apply what you learned?
I can use photo storytelling in class presentations or social media to express ideas more clearly and creatively.

Action: What do you need to do next?
I’d love to start a photo journal on my phone—just one photo a day that captures how I feel or something interesting I saw.

How did you feel?
At first, I felt a mix of excitement and pressure. Even though it’s just a simulation, the environment feels real when your team depends on your decisions. But honestly, that pressure is part of what makes me love this sport—it forces me to focus and stay calm. After the mission, I felt more confident and proud of how far I’ve come since I first started.

What did you do well or not so well?
I think my communication has improved a lot. I was able to clearly call out enemy positions and give quick updates without panicking. I also kept my movement smooth and stayed aware of my surroundings. However, I still have trouble reading the bigger tactical picture—I sometimes get too focused on my own sector and forget to support others. That’s something I need to improve if I want to be more useful to the team.

What did you learn?
Airsoft has taught me that pressure handling and teamwork are just as important as physical skill. Even if your aim is good, if you’re not communicating or reacting well under stress, the mission can easily fail. I’ve also learned that good leadership doesn’t always mean giving orders—it’s also about being dependable, alert, and adaptable.

How will you apply what you learnt?
These skills transfer into real life too. Whether it’s giving a group presentation or dealing with academic pressure, I’ve learned to stay calm, take responsibility, and support my team.

What will you do next?
I plan to keep practicing complex scenarios like hostage rescue and room clearing. I’ll also get feedback from more experienced players and watch real training videos to improve my tactical thinking. My goal isn’t to be the best player—it’s to be a teammate others can count on.

Reflect: How did you feel?
At first, I felt nervous—what if I said something wrong? But as soon as he smiled and replied, my fear faded. I felt excited, even a bit proud, for stepping out of my comfort zone. It felt like a small but meaningful breakthrough in my English communication confidence.

Reflect: What did you do well or not so well?
I think I did well in showing interest and keeping the conversation flowing by asking open questions. However, sometimes I struggled to understand his accent and had to ask him to repeat things. Also, I occasionally lacked vocabulary to express my ideas fully, which made me feel a bit stuck.

Reflect: What challenges did you face?
Understanding natural English speed and accent was the biggest challenge. Also, thinking of a response quickly while making it sound natural was hard. I realized that even though I can read and write decently, real-time conversation needs more practice.

Reflect: What did you learn?
I learned that people are usually kind and willing to talk if you take the first step. This experience taught me that communication is not about perfect grammar but connection. I also saw which areas of my English still need work, especially listening and reacting naturally.

Reflect: What progress are you making?
I used to avoid talking to strangers in English, but now I’ve started to take initiative. This wasn’t my first time chatting with someone abroad, but it was the first time I truly enjoyed it without being too stressed.

Action: What would you do differently next time?
Next time, I’ll try to prepare some useful phrases in advance and listen more carefully to improve my understanding. I’ll also try to relax more and treat it like a casual chat, not a test.

Action: How can you apply what you learned?
I plan to talk more with international students on campus, and maybe even join conversation clubs or language exchange events to practice more.

Action: What do you need to do next?
My next step is to build up my listening and speaking skills by watching English shows and practicing daily speaking, even just by talking to myself.

How did you feel?
At first, I was nervous because I was afraid of saying something wrong or not understanding the reply. I was also worried about missing my flight. However, once I communicated and solved the problem, I felt proud and more confident. Even though the conversation wasn’t perfect, I realized the most important thing was being brave enough to speak.

What did you do well or not so well?
I think I did well by staying calm and not giving up after the first person couldn’t help. I also slowed down my speech and used gestures, which helped me get my message across. On the other hand, I found myself hesitating when I couldn’t think of the right words. My vocabulary was limited, so I sometimes struggled to speak fluently.

What did you learn?
I learned that speaking perfect English isn’t necessary to communicate effectively. What matters more is the willingness to try. I also learned that staying calm helps me think more clearly. Real-life communication is not the same as classroom English—it’s fast, real, and often unpredictable.

What would you do differently next time?
Next time, I will prepare some useful travel-related phrases. I will also check transfer routes in advance so I won’t rely only on asking people. I’ll try to be more confident and worry less about grammar.

How can you apply what you learnt?
This experience made me more confident about using English in public. I can now apply this in situations like shopping, asking for help, or speaking up in class.

What do you need to do next?
I plan to review and practice daily vocabulary for common situations like travel and directions. I will also talk more in English with classmates and use apps or AI tools to build fluency and quick response skills.

My main challenges were understanding academic terms, identifying the author’s argument structure, and dealing with long, information-dense paragraphs. I also realized that translating academic ideas into clear summaries in English is difficult for me due to limited academic writing experience.

Reflect: What did you learn/what was useful to you?
I learned how academic research is structured—from introduction and literature review to methodology and results. I also learned useful academic vocabulary related to HRM and employee retention. This will help me read and write more effectively in my coursework.

Reflect: What did you achieve?
I successfully identified the three core variables in the study (compensation, work-life balance, career development) and understood their connection to employee retention. I also made a vocabulary list and wrote a short reflective summary based on the article.

Reflect: What progress are you making?
I am becoming more comfortable reading journal articles, especially understanding how arguments are built. I now read with more focus and take notes actively, rather than just reading passively.

Action: What would you do differently next time you do an activity such as this?
Next time, I will preview the article first by reading the abstract, conclusion, and headings before reading everything in detail. I will also prepare by reviewing relevant vocabulary and concepts beforehand.

Action: How can you apply what you learnt?
I will use the vocabulary and concepts in future essays, and structure my writing more clearly by following how the article organized its argument. I will also apply the employee retention knowledge in my business module assignments.

Action: What do you need to do next?
Next, I will read more academic articles on related topics and summarize them in English to improve both my comprehension and writing. I also plan to ask my tutor for feedback on my written summaries to help me improve further.

Recently, I read a challenging academic article titled The Long-Term Consequences of Short-Term Incentives published in the Journal of Accounting Research. This article explores how short-term CEO incentives, such as equity that is about to vest, can influence company decisions like share repurchases and mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and how these decisions often lead to lower long-term firm value.

Reflect – What challenges did I face?
The main challenge was maintaining focus and comprehension over long sections of technical text. I often had to reread passages to fully grasp their meaning. Another challenge was transforming complex research findings into clear, concise summaries, especially using appropriate academic language.

Reflect – What did I learn?
I learned that academic communication is not only about writing clearly, but also about reading critically. This paper taught me how authors construct an argument with evidence, balance theory and practice, and use precise language. These are techniques I aim to adopt in my own writing.

Reflect – What progress am I making?
I am now more confident in reading academic papers. I read more actively, take structured notes, and begin to think about how I can respond critically. I have also begun using academic language more accurately in my coursework.

Action – What will I do differently next time?
In future readings, I will preview the structure of articles by examining the abstract, headings, and conclusion first. I will also prepare vocabulary lists and write paragraph-by-paragraph summaries to reinforce understanding.

Action – How can I apply what I learned?
I will apply the article’s structure and tone to my AES writing tasks and use its academic language style as a model. I also plan to improve my own writing by revising summaries and asking for tutor feedback.

Action – What do I need to do next?
I will continue reading research papers weekly, write brief summaries for each, and keep a reflection journal to track progress. I will also actively ask peers and tutors for feedback on both my reading interpretations and written communication.

What did you do?
In a marketing group project, I worked with three other classmates. We needed to make a marketing plan. Everyone in the group finished their part and followed the goal. We all shared ideas and respected each other. The teamwork was good in general. But sometimes we talked too much about theory. It made the meeting long and hard to move forward.

What challenges did you face?
We had many ideas, but it was hard to choose one clear plan. Sometimes we didn’t agree, and no one made a decision. We didn’t have a leader, so the discussion was not well controlled. Also, we had trouble using theory in a practical way. We knew the theory, but we didn’t know how to use it in our real plan.

What did you learn?
I learned that a good team needs more than just sharing ideas. It needs someone to manage time, give direction, and help the group take action. I also learned that too many ideas without action can waste time. Next time, I want to help my team make faster decisions and keep things more clear.

Why is this skill important to you?
Teamwork is very important for university and for future work. I will work in groups many times. If I can help the group do better, solve problems, and finish tasks on time, I will be more useful in any job.

How will you recognise success?
If I can help my team focus better, speak more clearly, and help the group make a plan faster, I will feel that I improved. I also want to try to be a small leader in a group next time, to learn how to guide others.

What did you do?
In a marketing group project, I worked with three other classmates. We needed to make a marketing plan. Everyone in the group finished their part and followed the goal. We all shared ideas and respected each other. The teamwork was good in general. But sometimes we talked too much about theory. It made the meeting long and hard to move forward.

What challenges did you face?
We had many ideas, but it was hard to choose one clear plan. Sometimes we didn’t agree, and no one made a decision. We didn’t have a leader, so the discussion was not well controlled. Also, we had trouble using theory in a practical way. We knew the theory, but we didn’t know how to use it in our real plan.

What did you learn?
I learned that a good team needs more than just sharing ideas. It needs someone to manage time, give direction, and help the group take action. I also learned that too many ideas without action can waste time. Next time, I want to help my team make faster decisions and keep things more clear.

Why is this skill important to you?
Teamwork is very important for university and for future work. I will work in groups many times. If I can help the group do better, solve problems, and finish tasks on time, I will be more useful in any job.

How will you recognise success?
If I can help my team focus better, speak more clearly, and help the group make a plan faster, I will feel that I improved. I also want to try to be a small leader in a group next time, to learn how to guide others.

What do you want to develop?
I want to improve my ability to plan my future career. My major is Management, and there are many different subjects. But I don’t think it’s necessary to be good at everything. Time is limited, so I prefer to focus on one or two areas that I’m truly interested in. For me, that area is marketing. I want to explore marketing more deeply, not just in theory, but also in practice.

What did you do?
In my studies, I started to pay more attention to marketing-related topics. I enjoy learning how companies create demand and how they design attractive selling points. I also think about how marketing strategies change in different countries and cultures. I want to learn how to use local advantages to attract customers and improve business results. I believe that good marketing is not only about theory, but also about real experience. That’s why I plan to find a marketing-related job during my holiday, even if it’s just a basic role. I want to gain practical experience and learn how marketing works in real life.

What challenges did you face?
My biggest challenge is how to focus on one area while still completing all the other courses. Also, because I don’t have much work experience yet, I don’t know how real marketing teams operate. Another challenge is how to connect what I learn in class with real market situations. Sometimes theory feels far from real business.

What did you learn?
I learned that it’s okay not to be perfect in every subject. Choosing a clear direction and going deeper into it is more useful for me. I also realised that learning through real experience is very important in marketing. I need to read more, ask questions, and try things myself. Planning is not just about thinking, it’s also about doing.

Why is this skill important to you?
Career planning helps me use my time well and prepare for real work. I want to become someone who understands marketing, knows how to attract customers, and can work in international markets. This skill will help me not only in university but also in my future job and even if I want to start my own business.

How will you recognise success?
If I can find a part-time job or internship in marketing, and if I can apply what I learn in real work, I will feel that I’m improving. I also plan to write one short (200-word) reflection each week to help myself think clearly and build experience step by step.

When I first arrived in the UK, I felt excited because everything was new to me. But after the first few weeks, I started to feel pressure. The biggest stress came from my studies and the language barrier. My classmates spoke with different accents, and I had to spend more time understanding what they said. I also felt nervous when speaking, and this affected my confidence and learning. At the same time, the weather and culture were very different from my home. The early dark winter, unfamiliar food, and new environment made me feel uncomfortable.
Reflect: What did you learn/what was useful to you?
I learned that stress is normal and can be controlled. I also found that regular exercise and talking with friends help a lot. Making a simple study plan also helped me focus better and reduced my worries.

Reflect: How did you feel? Positively and negatively?
At first, I felt interested and curious. But soon I started to feel tired, anxious, and sometimes lonely. I didn’t feel confident in speaking English. I also felt that I was not doing well in class, which made me more nervous. But after some time, I started to accept that this is part of adapting, and I slowly became more positive.

Reflect: What did you achieve?
I became more relaxed, more confident in speaking, and more comfortable in the new environment. I can now understand others better and talk more naturally, even when I’m not sure about every word.

Reflect: What progress are you making?
I now feel more calm in class, and I try to take action instead of avoiding problems. My communication skills have improved too.

Action: What would you do differently next time?
Next time I join a new environment, I will prepare more by reading about the culture and planning my time better from the beginning. I will also speak to people earlier, even if I feel nervous.

What do you want to develop?
I want to get better at managing my time. This skill is important for both my studies and daily life. I hope to use time wisely so I can work more efficiently and feel less stressed.

What did you do?
When I first came to the UK, I had trouble planning my time. Every day felt very busy, and I often did tasks late at night because I didn’t have a clear schedule. This made me feel tired and disorganised. Later, I decided to make changes. I tried to use small gaps in my day, like breaks between classes or bus rides, to review vocabulary or check notes. I also set fixed times for studying and exercise. These small steps helped me feel more in control.

What challenges did you face?
At the beginning, it was hard to stick to my plan. Sometimes I got distracted by my phone or other things. I also didn’t know how much time tasks really needed—I often thought something would take 30 minutes, but it actually took an hour. I had to learn to adjust my plans and be more flexible.

What did you learn?
I learned that good time management is not about working more, but working smarter. For example, breaking big tasks into smaller parts makes them easier to finish. Planning my day in advance also helped me feel calmer and avoid last-minute stress.

Why is this skill important to you?
It helps me finish work on time, stay healthy, and have energy for both study and free time. In the future, when I have a job with many responsibilities, this skill will be even more useful.

How will you recognise success?
I will know I improved if:

• I finish tasks before deadlines

• I feel less stressed about time

• I still have time to relax or do things I enjoy

• My weekly plans are realistic and easy to follow

Reflect: What did you do well or not so well?
I think I was brave to start a conversation. I didn’t just walk away. I asked for help even if my English is not perfect. I tried to say my feelings and not just say “I’m okay.” But I think I still need improve how to say my emotions more clearly. Sometimes I just said “I’m tired” or “no confidence” but I want to learn more words to say exactly how I feel.

Reflect: What did you learn?
I learned that networking is not always formal or about job. Sometimes it’s about asking help or just connect with someone who understand you. I also learned that talking with someone can really change my mood. It doesn’t solve all problem, but it helps a lot.

Action: What will you do next?
Next time I see Wellbeing Ambassador, I will say hello again. I also want to join a Wellbeing Workshop if I have time. I will try to open myself more and maybe suggest my Chinese friends to try this too. I also plan to write some emotion words in my notebook and practice using them.

Describe: What did you do?

I joined a Chinese New Year calligraphy activity held in the student common room. There were many red and blue papers, brushes, and ink on the table. I wrote the “福” character on red paper and explained to others what it means. Some international students were very interested. I talked to a girl from Spain and a boy from Germany. They asked me how to write the character and what it means in our culture. I said “Fu means blessing and good luck. We put it on door during New Year.” They also tried to write it themselves.

Reflect: How did you feel?

At first, I felt a bit nervous because I didn’t know how to explain Chinese traditions in English. I was afraid maybe my words are wrong. But when I started talking, I saw they were listening carefully and smiling. That gave me confidence. I used simple English and body language to help them understand. Later I felt proud. It was a chance for me to share something from my culture, and I was happy they liked it. I also learned how to describe traditions in another language.

Reflect: What did you do well or not so well?

I think I did well in trying to speak, even if my grammar was not correct. I didn’t avoid speaking. I also asked them, “Do you want to try?” to invite them to join. But sometimes I didn’t know how to describe exactly. For example, I want to say “we hang it upside down” but I forgot the word “upside down.” I just said “we turn it like this to show lucky come.” They still understood, but I want to learn to say more accurate next time.

Reflect: What did you learn?

I learned that networking is not only about academic or job. It’s also about sharing culture, ideas, and making connections. It’s a great way to make international friends and understand each other better. It also helps me practice English in a natural way.

Action: What will you do next?

Next time I will prepare some simple phrases to describe Chinese culture before I join this kind of event. I will also ask more questions to others like “How do you celebrate New Year in your country?” to make deeper conversation. I want to keep practising how to communicate clearly across culture.

For English communication, I joined English Corner and talked with students from Japan and Korea. At first I was nervous and afraid of grammar mistakes. But later I started to speak more and worry less. I also joined a Chinese-English song night. I felt proud when I explained Spring Festival culture in English, even though I forgot some words. Also, I talked to a Wellbeing Ambassador when I had emotional pressure. I used simple English and felt relaxed after the conversation. These events helped me become more confident and natural in daily talk.

For time and stress management, I changed my study habit. Before, I always did things at the last minute. But I learned to use small time blocks to do vocabulary review or reading. I also started going to the gym 4–5 times a week, which gave me better mood and sleep. I also made a weekly plan to balance study and break time. Now, I feel more in control and not so stressed.

About teamwork, I joined several group discussions and one team project. In one marketing project, we had good ideas but wasted time on too many theories. I noticed that sometimes we need a leader to push the team forward. I didn’t say much in that project, but later I reflected that I should be more active. I want to learn to give ideas and help the team take action quickly.

In RS2, I also learned to reflect. Before I just wrote what I did, but now I ask myself why, what I learned, and how to improve. This habit helps me grow faster.

I think I completed all my three goals. I’m still not perfect in speaking English or group tasks, but I know how to improve step by step.

For the next step, I want to join more English speaking events, apply for a marketing internship, and write weekly reflection about my progress. I believe RS2 gave me the tools to continue my development.