R: daRk Knight. Making the Impossible Possible

Introduction

2011-11-29T16:51:00.001-08:00

In this blog, I will be sharing some of the mindmaps/summaries that I have done throughout my undergraduate studies. There will also be some brief review for the modules I've taken.

For those who don't know me personally but chance upon my blog, thanks for viewing as well. I hope the mindmaps/summaries that I have shared are useful to you. I do hope they have helped you in one way or another. I welcome any suggestions/improvements to improve myself as well.

Lastly, I appreciate all the comments/encouragements/praises I've received so far (even those that I've received before revamping my blog). Thank you to all! But more importantly, I hope the spirit of sharing and selflessness are passed on even in this competitive environment. Do share with your friends if you find them useful.

As of today (29 Nov 2011), I have officially graduated from NTU, hence there would not be any new updates on upcoming modules which I'll be taking. As such, I will not be checking this blog as often, and will let it run passively as far as legally possible. However, I have made the best effort to map the new course code under the BRC curriculum with the existing module. If any of my links are down, please feel free to email me at dapump_87@hotmail.com. Apologize in advance for this, and hope the contents here are of great help to you.

Aerospace Engineering - Is it for me?

2011-11-29T16:50:00.001-08:00

This article is mainly targeted to JC students/polytechnic students who are contemplating about doing a course in Aerospace Engineering at NTU. They are mainly my opinion and may or may not be reflective of the views held by other NTU Aerospace students.

Many students decided to take up the course in Aerospace Engineering because of the following reason:

1. Being one of the prestigious courses in Singapore (like medicine, law), being in this course would show my peers that I'm a very smart person.

2. I can earn a lot of $ in the future as this course has a lot of smart students.

3. I'm really interested in Aerospace and would want to work on an aircraft in the future.

I will address the first opinion of joining NTU Aerospace because it is one of the prestigious courses in NTU.

I don't deny that indeed it is one of the prestigious courses from Singapore. Whenever there are new friends who know which course I come from, they would usually say 'Oh, you must be very smart' and 'Your A level result must be very good'. Indeed, it is hard to get into NTU Aerospace. The cutoff for A level result is usually AAAB (for my batch). The polytechnic students usually have GPA very close to 4.0. This is mainly because of the limited number of vacancies in the course. However, the key to success in university is to like what you are studying, and not just because the course is one of the best in Singapore. Although the course is attended by many 'smart' students, the returns are not very good.

The second opinion is that the returns (in terms of starting salary) for this course is good. Most people who have done Industrial Orientation/Attachment would have known that the starting salary of engineers (including Aerospace) is like shit. The reason why the average starting salary for this course is so high is that most seniors joined high-paying government/government sector job, or got their first job in the bank. Many aerospace companies in Singapore deal with MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul), and they find that the specialised knowledge that NTU Aerospace students learnt in school is not really needed in the company. In fact, they would prefer to have an graduate in Mechanical Engineering, because what they learnt in school is what they would experience in the industry. Hence, our starting salary is not much different from Mechanical Engineers, even though we have a harder time in school than them.

How about going for government jobs? Although the starting salary is much higher as compared to being an engineer in the MRO industry, you'll feel undignified most of the time. This is because govt jobs looked at the class of honor, not the type of degree. Hence, you will be getting the same starting pay as someone who might have an easier time in school (in a less tough course than Aerospace).

How about starting a banking career? Surely the banks would take us in because we are classified as 'smart' students? This is the biggest mistake. Usually banks take in graduates who have an aptitude for banking and finance. If you really want to work for banks, then why join NTU Aerospace in the first place? You could have taken a course in Business, where you would learn stuff useful for your future career (and also graduate in a shorter time if you're in NBS). However, if you realise that Aerospace is not for you after Year 1/2, and decided to switch your career path to banking, it is possible for you to do it. This can be done by getting a bank internship for every summer holiday, impress the hell out of your supervisor, and then apply for a bank job. And this include getting good results for your course.

How about those who really love Aerospace? If you really like to work with Aircraft, especially in the MRO industry, then congratulations you have found the right course. However, you'll feel undignified as well because you will get the same pay as someone who have an easier life in school. My advice is to do a course in Mechanical Engineering, then specialise in Aerospace.

As for pilot wannabes, congratulations this course is also suitable for you, provided you get past the pilot application process. However, the stuff that you'll be learning as pilot trainee would be fundamental and not be as complicated. So you do not really need to do a course in Aerospace Engineering as well.

As for those who want to play a part in designing aircraft, congratulations you're in the right course. BUT you're in the wrong country. The aerospace industry in Singapore does not design new aircraft or new aircraft parts. However, you still can get your dream career, if you're willing to pay the price for it. This often means you'll need to do an overseas graduate degree, work for Aerospace companies overseas and possibly relocate permanently. Also, it'll be hard for Asian to get a job in most Aerospace companies, as many still practice protectionist policy. Otherwise, a research career in Singapore is good enough. This is because the course in Aerospace Engineering is very theoretical, and would be helpful for a research career.

For those of you who are thinking of coming into NTU Aerospace, think twice and think hard before submitting your application. For those who have decided, all the best for your studies and hope you enjoy it to the fullest.

Graduation Post

2011-05-01T19:58:00.000-07:00

Dec 2011

Today marks the last day of my exam in NTU, and also the day of my graduation. As much as I look forward to my new career (engineer/research/PhD), I also miss the day I have in NTU.

I'm writing this post to reflect what I have achieved over the past 3.5 years, under difficult circumstances. Although it might seem like I'm gonna boast about myself, my real intention is to show that if people like me this much in my school life, I'm sure anyone can also do it. Although most of my achievements are more academic-based, everyone can apply the same principles and mindset to achieve things in other arena. Don't view me as a success story, as I have yet to achieve something big in life.

I'm aware that there are people who might have more difficult circumstances than me. But I believe that most people will be better off than me, so if I can do it, I believe all of you can also do it.

Let me start off with some background, so that you can understand why it is more difficult for me to achieve big than most people:
- I did quite well for my A level (4A, 2 merits, GP B3) but did not manage to get a scholarship. This was because I was fickle-minded about my course back then, and was bad with my interview skills.
- I did not get the CN Yang Scholarship, although my grades are comparable to them (or better than some). Also because of my bad interview skills.
- I lived in Sengkang, and did not get a hall from year 2 onwards. My family can't afford a car, so this translates to 1.75hr commute for every trip everyday.
- I'm born in a lower income family (S$1.8k/month is way below the average of S$4k/month). My parents bought a 5-room flat while my dad was still a taxi-driver. Things were going well until there are many incidents that lead to my dad bringing lesser income back (eg. 911 incident, SARS). He changed his job to become a bus driver, but the housing instalments were still manageable. That's until the govt change the policy about CPF, so he has lesser CPF to pay for the instalment, and every month we have to pay $850 in cash. To help out with the instalments, I took a study loan from NTU to help pay for part of the instalments.
- My parents were rushing me to graduate early so that I can take over the housing loan, although 4 years is already difficult for engineering students to finish their course.
- I was informed that I got the Khoo Teck Puat Scholarship, but 2 days later received news that I was rejected (There were rumors that these scholarships were instead given to PRC who were already scholars, as there's an additional benefit of airfare)
- Every summer holiday since Year 1, I have been working and also clocking OT in my jobs. In addition, I was doing part-time tutoring despite a heavier ABP academic load.

Despite all these, here is what I have achieved thus far:
- 1st Aerospace Engineering ABP student (correct me if I'm wrong. It would have been three years if not for some red tapes)
- First Class Honors despite ABP workload
- Minor in Business by Year 2 Sem 1 (would have been Year 1 Sem 2 if not for some hiccups in registration)
- 1st NTU student (and maybe 1st true-breed singaporean) to be awarded the ISTAT Foundation Scholarship 2010. The only Asian recipient for that year.
- 1st Engineering student to finish FYP-URECA by Year 3, with A+ for FYP (usual ABP student started in Year 3 Semester 2. I started in Year 3 Semester 1)
- URECA Poster Exhibition Platinum Award in Year 3
- 1 overseas research conference (ISB2011), 1 local research conference (BES5SM), 1 Journal Article (IEEE)
- GIP at Georgia Institute of Technology. Did URECA research together with 21 credit academic load. Took AE2020, AE3515, AE4451, AE4580, ME4210, MGT3102, AE2699, the hardest subject combination ever and set the trend for future aero batches.
- Dean's List in Year 2
- DSO-URECA (A+)

The prices to pay for these achievements are huge as well, so I don't think not much people would want to emulate:
- Spend near S$20k for GIP trip, with S$3k from scholarship, S$8k from own pocket (URECA, Tuition, Holiday work) and still owe S$9k to bank
- Lost my girlfriend of 6 years
- Quitted LDP due to lack of time for commitment
- Buang my Year 1 Sem 1 results, during a period when I'm in a dilemma of what I want in life.
- Failed to help my good friend stay in NTU after getting academic warning
- Shadow figure in school (appear during lecture, disappear after that)
- Not much social life

Of course, I have the following people to thank as well:
- My parents and family, for attending to my needs ever since I don't stay in hall. And also baby Kira for constantly disturbing my studies (she's the baby that my mum help to babysit), and my girlfriend for helping each other with schoolwork.
- Asst Prof Holden Li. He let me realize that research is my forte, and it was great working with him for the past 2 part-time work as well as both URECA and FYP. He has trained me to become more independent, and make tools and resources available to me to the best that he can manage.
- My best friend Joel Goh. It's great to know you since orientation, and thanks for being there through thick and thin for the whole aero course.
- LDP buddy Tan Kheng Hiang, who has been an inspiration to me himself. I still remember the day when we scale the obstacles in ODAC together, and your story of how a guy from NTU manage to get into MIT for PhD because he held on to his vision.
- My GIP-GT friends (Dickson, Louis, Aik Tio, Jianda, Alvin Pee, Siang Ning, Aik Ling and Chin Sian). GIP wouldn't be that fun without you all.
- My buddies in Aero not mentioned in previous list such as Capt Chan Yi Xiang, Ma Hau Yee, Wenhao, Yiyuan, Guangyao, Ze Lin, Joshua, Chor Yen (my helpful cityville neighbour)
- My IO friends Kendrick, Ronnie Fun, David
- All other aero friends that I worked with in one way or another (which is almost the whole of aero cohort)
- All other NTU friends I have worked with in many modules
- Aero senior Ming Feng (2010/2011 batch) for helping me with GIP subject matching, AE0637 as well as many other stuff.
- Aero seniors from Aerospace Society Jian Yang and Yeunn Ject, for advising me on academic matters and also recognizing my abilities
- Aerospace Society friends Joo Sheng, Qiong Wei, Chee Wai, Xiaolong, Wang Hao, Melvin, Yong Wee, Xiaohong, Delie (2010 committee), as well as Eugene, Meng Han (2009 committee)
- Friends and Seniors from UOC Z-Group, UOC Committee 2009, LDP
- My marathon buddy Jeremy Tay
- JC buddies from CBE Jian Hong and Guo Jian
- DSO buddy Shaun Lin, colleagues and interns (Hongyi, Kian Guan, Lester, Soon Ghee, Joo Wah, Kian Huat, Joey, Xianglin, Anthony, Su Feng etc) and supervisors Feixiang
- Juniors I know from URECA exhibition (Yu Qi and Zhiren)

Graduation also marks a new point in my life, where I better work my ass off to pay off all the debts I have accumulated -_-"

Childhood Fantasy

2011-01-07T00:24:00.000-08:00

Even small pains make me teary
My heart cries out
When i pass by you
You are the whole world
i dream for only you
i hold my breath in front of you

just like you and i aren’t meant to be
just like it’s merely a moment passing by
You pass by me so easily
Even if i can’t go up
and take just a step

You make me walk around
You make me cry
Like an idiot, like a child
Just laugh it off

The closer i get
More scared i get
But this love cannot be stopped

Why is it just my love that is slow
Why is it just my love that is hard
Even if i’m by your side
You are the whold world
i look at only you
i stare into distance in front of you

Just like you’re the end for me
Just like you’re my last moment
You pass by me so easily
Even if i can’t go up
and take just a step

You make me walk around
You make me cry
Like an idiot,like a child
Just laugh it off

The closer i get
More scared i get
But this love cannot be stopped

From far away
if i can stare at you just for a moment
That is love

When this waiting and yearning
Gets you, and you can hear it
Just pretend nothing happened
The closer i get to you more scared i get
But this love cannot be stopped

25 January, at around 8pm, I was rushing to school as I was late for lecture. As I crossed the pedestrian crossing, I saw her again.
So, who was she? It all started out when I was in Secondary One. My family just moved house and I am in a new school. My dad usually fetch me home back then in his taxi, and twice a week he would then fetch me to MOELC for lesson. One day, my dad and I was waiting for the lift when we saw a girl walking towards the lobby. As my flat was situated in a highly accessible bus stop (one with many bus services), people who usually walk by weren't residents of the block. As usual, we just walked into the lift and closed the door after us.
Suddenly, this girl came towards the lift and wanted to stop the closing of the door. I frantically tried to press the 'lift open' button. She smiled to express thanks. I got a closer look, and I swear that I saw the most beautiful girl, with the most beautiful smile in my life. At that moment, she had totally captivated my heart. I do not know how to describe the feeling, but I do felt that she was the one for me, or maybe we had been in love in our previous life. Of course, it was childish thinking back then.
At that point in time, she was at her purest. Even though she had short hair, and was wearing shirt and shorts (her school, CVSS, had just started and the school buildings was under construction. Their students have to take classes at Sengkang secondary in the meantime. Also, the school uniform hasn't been set). Her features was well sculpted, and she was like an angel to me.
Between secondary one and two, I usually saw her in the morning once in a while. I always longed for the lift to stop at the 4th floor, and it would be her and her mum boarding it. It does happen once in a while, and that was when I was really late for school (my school was situated close to Cedar Girls Sec, while her school was only few min away). In fact, I did waited to see her a few times, waiting at the common void deck around the time that I believe her lesson would have ended. She didn't carry textbook on her hand (unlike the muggish me), so I never got the chance to peep and see her name.
The chance came when I was in Secondary 3. I did well enough in Sec 2 to get the Edusave Scholarship Award (I was 3rd in class that time). During the ceremony, I also discovered that she did quite well in school and got the award too. As we're required to paste a sticker with our name on the uniform, I manage to find out her name. Chen Shun Ping, Eileen. I couldn't muster the courage to talk to her, and she was with her group of friends, so I lose an opportunity to strike a friendship.
Being resourceful, I use the IRC (Internet Relay Chat) and talked to people from her school, asking about her. I discovered that she doesn't have a boyfriend (yet), but has a long line of suitors wooing after her. She was smart and in a triple science class (same as me). I also got her number and email from a close friend of hers (who wished me luck in wooing her, thanks a lot (: ). I took this opportunity to sms her, and try to strike up a friendship. However, this was without success. Every time I had an opportunity to take the same lift as her (after school that is), I was unprepared and tongue-tied. My vocal cord only starts working after she reached her level. She must have found me weird, and so her sms reply was usually cold (of course, I dont think my looks was good enough to capture her attention). Competition from CCA and academic workload distracted me from trying to get her attention, so I kind of give up, and in the process lose her hp number.
After O level, I proceeded to Junior College, and from her attire and the notes she hold, I believe she continue to pursue diploma at Temasek Polytechnic. I do met her once in a while when I was back from school. She had grown long and silky hair, and although her overall looks doesnt give the image of pureness like she used to, but she definitely looks very elegant.
Soon, she was out of the picture as I was seldom home due to NS, and also I had a place in hostel during the first year. It was in the second year of university, when I couldn't get a place in hall and had to travel to and fro from home, that I do meet her occasionally. I realized that she still captivates my heart, giving me a strong desire to want to be friends with her. I believed she went to study at ACCA from the notes I saw her carrying. In semester 2, I was away on my exchange in the states.
Year 3 Semester 1, I usually saw her on Friday, at the LRT station nearby as I had 9.30am lesson and I believe she's working now. Yesterday was the first time I saw her this semester. Too much thoughts crossed my mind that I decided to 'pen' it down. For one thing I know, we usually don't get the things we want in life, especially in love matters.
I believe she should have a boyfriend by now (with her beauty, a lot of guys would be wooing her anyway, with me out of the picture). She might be an accomplished executive, while for me, an accomplished undergraduate but still, a student. When I graduate, I have plans to pursue PhD at overseas university. By the time I was back (ideally), both of us would be 28 years old. I believed she would be happily married by then. I dont think fate would be so kind to me, such that I can woo her when I've become accomplished in life. I do hope that someday, by chance, we can become friends.
What will be, will be.

Personal Thoughts

2011-01-07T00:13:00.000-08:00

Thought #4
Something nice i found on the web:

Lesson 1: Naked Wife
A man is getting into the shower just as his wife is finishing up her shower when the doorbell rings. The wife quickly wraps herself in a towel and runs downstairs. When she opens the door, there stands Bob, the next door neighbor. Before she says a word, Bob says, “I’ll give you $800 to drop that towel.” After thinking for a moment, the woman drops her towel and stands naked in front of Bob.
After a few seconds, Bob hands her $800 dollars and leaves. The woman wraps back up in the towel and goes back upstairs. When she gets to the bathroom, her husband asks,…
“Who was that?” “It was Bob the next door neighbor,” she replies. “Great!” the husband says, “Did he say anything about the $800 he owes me?”
Moral of the story:
If you share critical information pertaining to credit and risk with your shareholders in time, you may be in a position to prevent avoidable exposure.

Lesson 2
A sales rep, an administration clerk, and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. They rub it and a Genie comes out. The Genie says, “I’ll give each of you just one wish” “Me first! Me first!” says the administration clerk. “I want to be in the Bahamas, driving a speedboat, without a care in the world.” Poof! She’s gone. “Me next! Me next!” says the sales rep. “I want to be in Hawaii,relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of Pina Coladas and the love of my life.” Poof! He’s gone. “OK, you’re up,” the Genie says to the manager. The manager says, “I want those two back in the office after lunch.”
Moral of the story: Always let your boss have the first say.

Lesson 3
A priest offered a lift to a Nun. She got in and crossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg. The priest nearly had an accident. After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg. The nun said,”Father, remember Psalm 129?” The priest removed his hand. But,changing gears, he let his hand slide up her leg again. The nun once again said, “Father, remember Psalm 129?” The priest apologized “Sorry sister but the flesh is weak.” Arriving at the convent, the nun went on her way. On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129. It said, “Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory.”
Moral of the story: If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great opportunity.

Lesson 4
A crow was sitting on a tree, doing nothing all day. A rabbit asked him,”Can I also sit like you and do nothing all day long?” The crow answered: “Sure, why not.” So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the crow, and rested.
A fox jumped on the rabbit and ate it.
Moral of the story: To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very high up.

Lesson 5: Power of Charisma
A turkey was chatting with a bull “I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree,” sighed the turkey, but I haven’t got the energy.” “Well, why don’t you nibble on my droppings?” replied the bull. “They’re packed with nutrients.” The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found that it gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally after a fourth night, there he was proudly perched at the top of the tree. Soon he was spotted by a farmer, who shot the turkey out of the tree.

Moral of the story: Bullshit might get you to the top, but it wont keep you there.

Lesson 6
A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold the bird froze and fell to the ground into a large field. While he was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on him. As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung, he began to realize how warm he was. The dung was actually thawing him out! He lay there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy. A passing cat heard the bird singing and came to investigate. Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him.

Moral of the story:
1. Not everyone who shits on you is your enemy
2. Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend
3. And when you’re in deep shit, it’s best to keep your mouth shut!

Thought #3

To those of you who have pushed me - thank you.
Without you I wouldn't have fallen.
To those of you who laughed at me - thank you.
Without you I wouldn't have cried.
To those of you who just couldn't love me - thank you.
Without you I wouldn't have known what real love is.
To those of you who hurt my feelings - thank you.
Without you I wouldn't have felt them.
To those of you who left me lonely - thank you.
Without you I wouldn't have discovered myself.
But it is to those of you who thought I couldn't do it,
It is to you I thank the most because without you
I never would have tried.

Thought #2

Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits they become character.
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.

Thought #1

Some of my friends ask me for advice regarding studies, like they put in so much effort yet they still don't get the grades they want. So here I shall compile and disproof a list of fallacies, as well as some hard knocks to 'wake up':
1. In life, you only have one chance to perform. An artiste would practice 1000 times, but what determines whether he/she would eventually become popular depends only on one performance. In school, there are thousands of chance to redeem yourself from your mistakes (Do well in finals if you screw your CAs). But this is not true. A second difference could save a life, and a mark difference could save your grades. Treasure your every single chance.

2. They say success is 99% effort, 1% luck. If your school place very high weightage on final exams (like NTU), then this reverses to 1% effort, 99% luck. You can put in 100% effort, but if you didn't have the chance to shine (didn't finish your paper, some exceptional question came out etc), you are deemed an average student. So take every chance to improve your luck before or after exams.

3. If you do well, thank your luck and effort. If you didn't do well, blame on luck more than effort (unless you didn't really study for it, then in this case blame your effort more than luck).

4. In this meritocratic society, a grade difference does make a difference. A 3.51 student could get a job over 3.50 student.

5. If you have good grades, it does not mean you're proficient in that field. It just means that you are more exam smart, so there's nothing to be arrogant about. There are other people who is much more better than you, so be humble and learn from everyone.

6. Likewise, those who did not have good grades does not have to look to that person in awe. You can always beat him/her in somewhere else. So don't be disheartened.

7. If you didn't have that good a grade, it does not mean you will lose out. Start to build up your selling point, such as taking a minor or learning new languages. Your overall packaging determines your market value, not your grades.

8. If you want to have good grades, ask yourself how much you want it, how much would you sacrifice for it, how much would you suffer for it and how much would you want to change for it. If you have no intentions to do any of these, just be contented with what you have now.

9. 'If your friend do worse than you, you would feel bad. If your friend do much better than you, you would feel worse' from 3 idiots. If your friend/s help you selflessly, they are your good friends who you will want to keep at all cost. If your friend are selfish, take it with a pinch of salt that you have to be self-sufficient.

10. You would only do well if you like what you are doing/studying. If you don't like what you are doing/studying, then do something about it (Make yourself like it/drop it/change course etc).

11. Success is 99% effort and 1% luck. For people who're involved in research work, that 99% effort becomes 1%, and you need 99% inspiration (which means 99.9897% inspiration, 0.0102% effort, 0.0010305% luck).

Favourite Quotes

2011-01-07T00:10:00.001-08:00

Quotes of Life:
The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams – Eleanor Roosevelt

Whatever games are played with us, we must play no games with ourselves – Ralph Waldo Emerson

There is one thing stronger than all the armies of the world, and that is an idea whose time has come – Victor Hugo

An achievement is a bondage. It obliges one to a higher achievement. – Albert Camus

A champion is someone who gets up when he can’t. – Jack Dempsey

The best vision is insight. – Malcolm Forbes

The bend in the road is not the end of the road unless you refuse to take the turn. – Anonymous

What lies behind us, and what lies before us, are tiny matters, compared to what
lies within us. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Learning without thought is labor lost. – Confucius

It’s not that I’m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer. – Albert Einstein

It is a lesson which all history teaches wise men, to put trust in ideas, not circumstances. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Take your work seriously, take yourself less seriously. It’s a great recipe for some good times and great memories. – Donald Trump

Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new. – Albert Einstein

Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance. – Samuel Johnson

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

The mind that opens to a new idea never comes back to its original size. – Albert Einstein

Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that. – Norman Vincent Peale

About Myself

2011-01-07T00:07:00.000-08:00

Ronnie
Man of few words
dapump_87@hotmail.com
Nanyang Technological University
Aerospace Engineering
Georgia Institute of Technology
Aerospace Engineering
Sengkang, S'pore

Goals:
-BEng(Aero) First Class Honours
-GPA = 5.0
-Dean's List
-GIP (Georgia Tech) - Achieved!
-Minor in Business - Achieved!

Achievements:
- ISTAT Foundation Scholarship
- Dean's List 2010

Research:
- DSO-URECA (MEMS)
- URECA (@Georgia Tech)
- FYP URECA Technopreneurship

Past CCA:
Aerospace Society
- Vice President (2009/2010)
- Hon Gen Secretary (2008/2009)
UOC Camp Committee
- P&P Officer (2008/2009)

Aim to finish:
-StanChart Marathon (done twice!)
-Army Half Marathon (done!)
-Sundown Marathon (done!)
-Nike+ Human Race 10K (done thrice!)
-Mizuno Wave Run
-New Balance Real Run (done!)
-Vertical Marathon
-Biathlon

What I have achieved:

Why I started this blog?
During my studies, I have met with various obstacles. Some 'friends' are unwilling to share for fear of unwanted competition. I approached many seniors for help, and many of whom are more than willing to share their notes/assignments with me, and also give me a brief preview of how each course is like. Hence, I decided to start this blog and share my notes/assignments/mindmaps whenever possible with my Aerospace juniors, so that their path will be more smooth-sailing than mine. In a way, I'm also returning my gratitudes to the seniors who have helped me in one way or another, knowingly and unknowingly.

Also, since I took quite a number of electives to fulfill GER(PE) and business minor requirements, I hope that I can give a preview to students who are contemplating of taking the course, so they can make an informed decision of whether they want to add the course or not.

Lastly, I hope this blog will help students who are thinking of joining NTU Aerospace Engineering program a preview of the contents inside, so that they can make an informed decision.

Research (DSO-URECA and FYP-URECA)

2010-10-04T19:32:00.000-07:00

DSO-URECA

Title: Interfacing MEMS Based Motion Sensors in Military Electronic Devices
Supervisors: Asst Prof (Adj) Li King Ho Holden, Asst Prof Du Hejun
Research Paper
Grade: A+

GIP-URECA

Title: Thermal-Mechanical Analysis of Copper-filled and Polymer-filled Through Silicon Via using ANSYS
Supervisor: Dr Muhannad Bakir
Research Report

FYP-URECA (Technopreneurship)

Title: Integration of MEMS Inertial Sensors towards commercially-viable tracking devices
Supervisors: Asst Prof (Adj) Li King Ho Holden, Asst Prof Yoon Yong Jin
Research Report
Grade: A+

General Designs

2008-12-02T04:13:00.003-08:00

Here's the design for a cupboard I've done during one of my lab sessions. Managed to complete it in 2.5 hours (last one to lave the lab though). Looks quite nice, though it can be improved. But sadly, I drew the 3D perspective incorrectly from the start, so spent quite some time correcting it

T-shirt Designs

2008-12-02T04:13:00.001-08:00

This is the shirt design I've done for my hall election committee. The logo at the top right shows a so-called challenge among election candidates (though for my hall, it's pretty straightforward and obvious who will win). The design at the bottom right shows a candidate campaigning. V is the initial for both 'voice' and 'vote', indicating that people cast their votes for those who represents their voices.

Upcoming T-shirt design for Union Orientation Camp 2009! Abit cheeky for the C.S.I. theme? For the front of the T-shirt, the floral designs on the bottom left shows the emergence of the magnificant pink panther. At the back, it's a cut-out from the 007 gun-barrel wallpaper, with pink panther in the middle.

T-shirt design specially for main committee members! Same design as the previous one, except it looks cooler when the colours are inverted.

Logo Designs

2008-12-02T04:12:00.000-08:00

Design done by me for the Earth Observatory of Singapore Logo Design competition. The whole logo is shaped like a volcano, with lava splurting out at the top. The cone of the volcano is an observatory. E and S forms the side of the volcano, while the hurricane takes the shape of O. The satellite image of Earth, with SEA side facing the front, forms the background of the image.

This is the logo design created by the PnP team of UOC09. The background is a hurricane, while the 'eye' of the hurricane is enlarged. E and S forms the 'whites' of the eyes, while the Earth takes the shape of the pupil.

The upcoming UOC 2009 logo!

Exam Relaxation

2008-12-01T06:32:00.001-08:00

Ok I promise I'll share some stuff on how to relax before and during exams. Ok here they are :)

Funny Videos!

English

Funny TV Bloopers

Funny TV Live Bloopers

Funny Bloopers

Will Smith Beatbox

Ameriquest Commercial

Chinese

Funny Song (Hokkien)

Insidious Vulgar Song

Funny Taiwan Beatbox

小豬模仿

Japanese

Cute Japanese speak English

Toilet Prank

Massage Chair Prank

Wake-Up Prank

Funny Japanese Prank

Taxi Prank

Many People Prank

Funny R&B Dance

Pitfalls

Tug-of-war

Soccer with Binoculars

Funny Japanese Commercial

Korean

Funny DHL Commercial

Kim Jong II Commercial

Funny KFC Commercial

Funny Pepsi Commercial

Funny McDonald Commercial

My Photos

2008-12-01T06:31:00.002-08:00

My Models

2008-12-01T06:31:00.001-08:00

My Designs

2008-11-27T22:38:00.001-08:00

About My Life

2008-11-27T22:37:00.000-08:00

GIP - Georgia Tech

2008-11-27T22:29:00.003-08:00

Internship

2008-11-27T22:29:00.001-08:00

1st Internship: Defence Science Organization (DSO)

Project: Micro-Electrical-Mechanical Devices (MEMS)
Tasks:
-
-

Thoughts/Feelings:
-
-

General Elective - Business

2008-11-27T20:04:00.002-08:00

MB107/BU8301 Fundamentals of Business Law (3AU)

Tutor: Mr. Tan Peng Kwee
Personal Notes
Examiner's Reports
Mindmaps
Study Techniques: Mindmap
Result:
Review:
Mr Tan is one of the best tutor for this module. For the start of every lesson, he will draw out the mindmap for the topic covered during lecture, so that we can have a full understanding of the lesson. Following which, he covers the tutorial questions systematically with the use of the mindmap, hence he can finish the questions within 15-20 minutes. The mindmaps that was given in class proves to be very useful for the open-book examination, and it helps you to answer the questions systematically. Overall, this module gives you a good understanding of the laws governing commercial contracts.

General Elective - Science

2008-11-27T20:04:00.001-08:00

BS801/BS8001 Genes' R Us (3AU)

Personal Notes 1
Personal Notes 2
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Results: A+

General Elective - AHSS

2008-11-27T20:03:00.002-08:00

Modules taken/going to take:
-HP801 Mind Over Stress (3AU)
-HP802 Working in the 21st Century (3AU)
-HP803 Are you ok? Mental Health in Singapore (3AU)

HP801/HP8001 Mind Over Stress (3AU)
Lecturer: Ms Siew Mann Diong
Personal Notes
Revision Sheet
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Result: B+
Review:
This module consist of 1 Quiz (40 MCQ question comprising of 40%) and 60% final exam. This module is quite enjoyable as you've learned how about stress, as well as how to manage your personal stress. But personally I felt that this module is a bit unjust. Firstly, the quiz was conducted on week 9 and quiz result was released on week 12, right after the SU option was closed. So for people like me who worked hard and thought they do well but in the end flunked, we don't have much chance to redeem ourselves. I did quite good for my final exam, since I've studied it more than my core modules. So what I can advise is, it's hard to score for this module, but if you luckily got it, just SU.

HP802/HP8002 Working in the 21st Century (3AU)

Personal Notes
Study Techniques: Read through notes
Results: SU
Tutor: Dr Kamal Kant
How did I study?
- Seldom touch this subject, because I knew I won't do well for it as it wasn't one of my 'specialties'. I've learnt my weakness from screwing up my MB106 exam, that I'm not good at these essay-type exams. As such, I've SU this module right from the start. True enough, the exam turns out to be much tougher, even though clear tips were given (like what type of questions will come out). I've actually prepared with minimal time on these topics, which should be sufficient for me to get B+/A-. But it's lucky that I prepare amply, else the 'S' grade is 难保了.
- Attend some of the lectures as a form of relaxation. Firstly, Dr Kamal's lectures were all very interesting, but they doesn't really help you to fully comprehend the concepts. Well, a lot of modules in NTU, you really have to depend on yourself to understand. I went for the last 2 lectures because it's important for exams.
Mistakes made:
- Skip many lectures (in fact, attend only 5/6 out of the 12).
- Didn't place much importance on the pair assignment.
Tips for scoring:
- Attend every single lectures and listen with heart (even if you're SUing the subject. You will save the time to read through the notes in your free time).
- Do regular revision (if you're not SUing, as many basic concepts are linked towards the end).
- Must attend the first 5 lectures if you're SUing. This is because many important career theories are taught, and they always come out during exam.
- Must attend the last lecture, as important tips are given, such as the topics that will come out.
- Prepare your exam revision based on the tips religiously, and prepare them well (Other topics are not applicable, but may be useful to gain some bonus points).

HP803/HP8003 Are you Ok? Mental Health in Singapore (3AU)
Tutor: Dr Daniel Fung
Practice Notes

Study Techniques: Essay Practice
Result: S
Review:
This module is made up of 40% MCQ Quiz, and 60% Final Exam

To score in this module, you have to do well for the quiz. This is because the final exam is very easy and the tips are already given in the lecture notes. In fact, you can even prepare your own answers and copy them into your exam script during the final exam.

For the quiz, the only way to score to own a smartphone (i.e. to be able to check answers online without being discovered. A.k.a. to cheat). It would be best to sit in the back rows as the inviligators won't be walking around to check. Most of the questions given in the MCQ quiz doesn't even exist inside any of the lecture slides. If you do not do well for the CA quiz, be prepared to SU this module as there is no way to remedy it (my lesson learnt from HP801). There are only two ways of score for quiz: either you take the extra effort to know everything about the module, or you cheat. However, I do not hold any liability for cheating as it will amount to expulsion from the university, so take this advice at your own risk. I decided to SU from the start, and did not want to run the risk of being expelled in my final year of study.

Business Minor

2008-11-27T20:03:00.001-08:00

These are the modules I intend to take for the completion of my Business Minor.
- MB101/BU8101 Accounting (3AU)
- MB102/BU8201 Business Finance (3AU)
- MB103/BU8501 Principles of Marketing (3AU)
- MB106/BU8601 Fundamentals of Management (3AU)
- MB107/BU8301 Fundamentals of Business Law (3AU) or
- MB363/BU8401 Management Decision Tools (3AU)

Total No. of AU: 15
Overall GPA: 4.8

Why did I choose this combination?
These modules essentially forms the foundation of business. I actually learned this after reading books from Robert Kiyosaki (Author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad), Donald Trump (CEO of Trump Organization, the Apprentice fame), and Warren Buffett (the world's richest man at the point of writing). Firstly, to understand business, you must think and act business. You must understand the numbers in the financial statements to understand the business, and MB101 gives you the accounting foundation. You need to know whether it is worth carrying out certain investments, and this is where MB102 gives you the basics of finance(NPV, risks etc). For any organization to survive, they must attract customers to buy their products or services. This is where MB103 comes in. In addition, an efficient and effective use of resources is important, and MB106 teaches you the fundamentals. Lastly, the business environment is treacherous, and so you need to at least have a basic knowledge of law, which is provided by MB107.

Secondly, if you are making plans to pursue Master in Business Administration(MBA) after you graduate, having a business minor with your foundations built is necessary. I believe this is the best subject combination for business minor suitable for this purpose.

Lastly, the concepts learnt from all these modules are applicable to any organizations, including CCAs. As such, anyone aiming for leadership positions should pursue this combination.

MB101/BU8101 Accounting (3AU)

Study Techniques: Notes
Notes:
(Financial)
(Managerial)
Results: A

How did I study?
I wrote notes after every chapter as part of revision, and compile them as shown in the link. This is my JC study technique, as I didn't believe in mindmaps then. I think I could have done better if I had used mindmaps, as I end up forgetting 1 major concept that comes out as a whole question. This costs me around 20 marks. In addition, I took the effort to understand annual reports, and would read them from the first to last page.

Mistakes made:
1. I could have done better if I have placed more bet in cash flow statement.
2. I should have followed my time management plan rigidly.

Tips for scoring:
1. Read up the chapter before going for lesson, as lecture is a mad rush (for me during special term).
2. After the lectures, do your tutorials faithfully.
3. Do a revision after your tutorials
4. Master your skills in doing the 3 important financial statements (Income statement, balance sheet, and especially Statement of Cash Flow)
5. Practice all the textbook problems at the end of each chapter.
6. Do a final revision before the exam.
7. Try out at least 3 past year exam papers before the actual paper to familiarise yourself with the format. This can also help you in planning your time management.

Overall Opinion:
For people who are attempting for the business minor, this is the first major obstacle you have to face. Why is it so?
Firstly, the module requires you to be competent with both financial and managerial accounting. For people studying business, they did financial and managerial accounting in separate modules. So you can have some gauge how much contents are being summarized (or condensed).
Secondly, among all the business minor modules, this module has the thickest textbook and the most chapters (22 out of 24 in the textbook). So you can imagine how much contents there are for this module.
Thirdly, for my special term, we cover 2/3 chapters per 1.5 hour lesson, followed by 1.5 hour tutorial. You can imagine the mad rush of complicating concepts during that short period of time. I'm not sure how this module is taught during semester, but I guess it will be better.
Lastly, for the exams, it is a mad rush for 2.5 hour worth of exam that is given only 2 hour to finish. For those who manage to finish them confidently (which excludes me, and that explains the missing + beside the A), I salute them. These are the people who are 99% clear of the module.
This is why I intend to take it during special term, and why it is the first module I took for the business minor.
For those who are aiming for business minor, I suggest you try this module first, then reconsider your options. It is a great test of your interest in business.
To know business, you must know the numbers. Its importance explains why it is a pre-requisite for business minor.

MB102/BU8201 Business Finance (3AU)

Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Notes: (mindmap)
Results: A+
How did I study?
Essentially I did the tasks that I have listed as tips for scoring below. In addition, I finished about 12 MB102 exam papers and 5 AB102 exam papers.

Mistakes made:
Can't think of any. Maybe never practice enough?

Tips for scoring:
1. Read up the chapter before going for lesson
2. After the lectures, do your tutorials faithfully
3. Do a revision/mindmaps after your lectures/tutorials.
4. Practice all the textbook problems at the end of each chapter to familiarise with the concepts.
5. After this, review the chapter.
6. Do a final revision before the exam.
7. Try out at least 3 past year exam papers before the actual paper to familiarise yourself with the format. This can also help you in planning your time management.

Overall Opinion:
After being trained well by the rigours of MB101, this module seems like a breeze to me. In fact,
Some of my friends actually dropped this course because they don't understand the financial ratios. But it is a bad choice. Financial ratios only form a very small part of business finance. What is more important, and given greater weightage are the topics towards the end.
The seminar is a full 3 hour session for 1/2 topics (compared that to MB101). There is no tutorials. As such, self-discipline is very important. Do take your own initiative to practice.
I manage to finish all tutorials, textbook exercises and mindmaps after 3 weeks out of total 5 weeks of module (did everything fast because I initially plan to go for orientation camps during this period). I manage to do 3 rounds of revision before going for exams and camp within the remaining 2 weeks. So yup, the module is not that taxing.
The exam is 2 hours but within 1 hour, you can see a lot of people leaving the exam hall. BUT you should stay and check your paper thoroughly for the remaining 1 hour. This is how you get to the other side of the bell curve.
For people who are aiming for business minor, you have no choice as this is your pre-requisite. For others, I highly recommend that you take this as your GER(PE).

MB103/BU8501 Principles of Marketing [Marketing in the 21st Century] (3AU)

Personal Notes:
(mindmaps)
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Results: A+
Lecturer: Boey Yew Tung

The result for this module was really a 'stun' for me, as I put in e least effort for it. Firstly, it was a last minute add/drop decision. I already have 20AU then and wasn't sure if I can cope with another 3AU module. It was a 9.58pm add but at 10pm regret decision. I was on the verge of SUing it for the sake of grades but decided not to so I can complete my minor. There are few reasons for it.

Firstly, I didn't have much choice who my group members are. Those who added at the last minute already has a group ready for them, while those who joined the tutorial class alone (like me) can only join the group on the verge of breaking (I heard 3 other members left the class). This is like a recipe for flanking this module, with group work constituting 40%. So I ended with a group with 2 chinese, 2 indians, 1 indonesian and myself, within which 2 people already intend to SU.

Secondly, we kind of flanked our first few presentation. In fact, we changed our presentation topic after the first presentation, and second presentation was a so-so. We're lucky that we hit the right buttons for our third presentation, which has the highest weightage (15%). The tutor like our presentation a lot, being concise and straight to the point. But from this group, I really see a lot about human behaviour. The two person who SU the module put in much more effort, in fact more than me. I really appreciate what they do. Also, I don't really like the look that my tutorial classmates gave me just because I'm in an 'outcast' group. Other personal comments about my group are censored, if you wish to know can come find me.

However, I still put in certain amount of effort for this module. The lecturer was interesting, but since he regurgitate the same content from the textbook, I guess going to lectures is a waste of time. As I did not have a chance to stay in hall, reading the textbook becomes a daily MRT affair, and I would draw my mindmaps when I got home. So before the start of recess week, I'm already done with my module.

The mindmaps really help in the final examination, as I do not need to flip the textbook to find the suitable keywords for that question. All it needs is about 20 pages of paper. I think I score well for the final exams, as I have so much to write within 2.5 hours that I only left with 2 blank pages of the exam booklet at the end of the exam (Not sure how many pages I write, but you can count the total number of pages then minus two). Was expecting B+/A-, so an A+ really comes as a big surprise.

MB106/BU8601 Fundamentals of Management (3AU)

Study Techniques: Mindmaps/Definition List
Notes: (Mindmap)
Results: B+

How did I study?
1. Read up (too ahead) before every chapter.
2. Read both recommended textbooks.
3. Did my mindmaps faithfully.
4. Did my tutorials faithfully.
5. Spot questions before exam and clarify with the tutor.
6. Start doing my course assignments early.

Mistakes made:
1. I read up too early before every chapter. As such, everything seems foreign again before the lecture.
2. I never take the initiative to read up more (too engrossed in games n cca during semester).
3. I never practice extra questions.
4. I never try a full exam papers and get my time management plan right.
5. I never follow rigidly to my time management plan.
6. I should have set my watch to the correct time and not fall into complacency that I still have 5 min left always.
7. I should not have leave my assignment done in the last minute.
8. Mindmaps was done too late after or too early before lectures.

Tips for scoring:
1. Read up the chapter before going for lesson
2. After the lectures, do your tutorials faithfully
3. Do a revision immediately after your lectures/tutorials
4. Master your skills in doing the 3 important financial documents (Income statement, balance sheet, and especially Statement of Cash Flow)
5. Practice all the textbook problems at the end of each chapter.
6. Do a final revision before the exam.
7. Try out at least 3 past year exam papers before the actual paper to familiarise yourself with the format. This can also help you in planning your time management.

Overall Opinion:
I agree with Dr. Kamal Kant. Management IS both science and art. After doing mathematical business modules (101 and 102), this module is a definite challenge to me. It is very abstract, and giving good and concrete arguements is a necessary skills.
Exam is a mad rush. I wrote in my worst ever handwriting and fastest ever speed, and manage to write 10 pages of answers, but I only answer 5 out of 7 questions and lose 25 marks for free. The remaining 2 questions, I can only do what is needed to salvage with the remaining time. Hence do plan your time in the exam properly.
Exam tips was given in the last lecture, so DO NOT MISS THE LAST LECTURE(Actually every lecture is important, so do not miss any). Questions was set by Dr Kant, and it was exactly the tips he has given. Nonetheless, you should not limit only the topics he's listed. Study all topics to give your answer substance, but focus on the ones he has given.
To score an A, mastering the concepts in the two textbooks is definitely not enough. There are millions of management concepts in the world, and it is by listing concepts outside the textbook that differentiates you as an A student. I actually found that out when I re-read the Art of War after exams. So do read up, it's a good investment.

MB363/BU8401 Management Decision Tools (3AU)

Personal Notes:
(mindmaps)
Assignments:
(Assignment 1)
(Assignment 2)
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Results: A
Lecturer: Dr. Li Zhi-Feng, Michael

Among the Business GER(PE) modules, MB363 seems to be the least easy one, despite the fact that it is usually 250%-300% oversubscribed. The reason for its oversubscription is because 1. The class size is really small (limited to about 50 for 2 classes) and 2. It used to be an easy module. The marking scheme for this module consists of 2 assignments of 15% each, group report and presentation of 15%, and final examination of 55%.
This class is usually taken by people in their 3rd/4th year of studies, so I guess I was really lucky to got in during Year 2 Sem 1. To score in this module, you need to be good in math, and also have a background in economics, not forgetting having good groupmates. I was lucky to be able to join a group who not only takes our work seriously (discussing about the assignments and correcting each other's mistakes), did our fair share of work, but also knows how to have fun.
As for the final exam, although it's an open book, those who have taken the module would agree with me that it is usually hard to complete the exam within the stipulated time, and also there's always one/two parts of a question that would 'stun'.
Overall, if you have an keen interest in operation management (like me), I think it would be good to take up this module. It's good to get the grades, but what counts more is the learning.

BEng Year 3 Semester 2

2008-11-27T20:02:00.004-08:00

Modules taken during Year 3 Semester 1:
- AE0637 Advanced Aircraft Propulsion (3AU)
- AE0618 Aircraft Reliability & Maintenability (3AU)
- HW310/HW0310 Professional Communication(3AU)
- HP803/HP8003 Are you okay? Mental Health in Singapore (3AU)
- AE4079/MA4079 Final Year Project-URECA (Technopreneurship) (10AU)

Total No. of AU: 11
Overall GPA:

AE0618 Aircraft Reliability & Maintenability (3AU)
Lecturers: Mr Lim Yeow Khee, Assoc Prof Wu Zhang
Cheat Sheet
Mindmap

Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Result: A+
Review:
The marking scheme for this module is made up of 20% assignment report and 80% final exam. It is made up of 3 sections, namely Aircraft MRO covered by Mr Lim Yeow Khee, Reliability and DOE (Design of Experiments) covered by Prof. Wu Zhang

The first section on Aircraft MRO is the most interesting section of the whole module. Mr Lim gives us a broad overview of MRO industry, and also share some of the experiences he encounter when he was working in SIAEC. He also explains how an MRO company works, and some of the management philosophy such as MSG-2 and MSG-3. The assessment for this section is a 20% assignment report, which covers some of the concepts introduced. Although this section was not tested in the final exam, the lectures are still worth going as it gives an insight into MRO of Singapore.

The second part covering Reliability and DOE was much more mundane. Lecture notes are understandable, and lectures can be skipped as the lecturer is just regurgitating what is on the notes. The bad point is that the concepts will be tested in the finals, and there are no tutorials to check your progress. It is hence important to do PYP from MP4001 to test your understanding.

DOE is especially important for FYP, if your project involves a lot of experiments to be carried out. Learning this will help you to make a more structured approach to conduct experiments. It is highly recommended to take this module before final year final semester.

The final exam was difficult for my semester, as there are many tricky questions that usually did not come out in PYP.

So overall, is this module worth selecting? Yes it definitely is, since it's an unavoidable fact that most of the Aerospace engineers will be working in MRO companies upon graduation. In addition, DOE is important for FYP.

AE0637 Advanced Aircraft Propulsion (3AU)
Lecturer: Assoc Prof Randy Chue
Cheat Sheet
Mindmap

Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Result: A+
Review:
This module is made up of 30% take-home assignment and 70% final exam.

The single take-home assignment is less time-consuming as compared to other aero modules assignment (eg. AE2005, AE3002), and it is important to score for this. It is best to re-check your calculations. This is because the final exams is a tough nut to crack.

The difficulty level of the final exam was much higher than previous year. A 20-mark stream thrust analysis question was now worth 13 marks only. The paper can only be completed if you're given 3.5hr instead of 2.5hr.

Overall, this module is worth taking if you're really interested in hypersonics (which I really am), and the concept is really different from that of turbomachinery engine. But it might not be a module to score.

HW310/HW0310 Professional Communication (2AU)
Tutor: Dr Chan Soon Keng
Result: A
Review:
This module is made up of 20% class participation, 40% resume assignment and 40% group presentation.

I took this module under Dr Chan Soon Keng, who was supposedly famed for her strictness in giving marks (She was ranked the first in the 'blacklist', the second being Ms Aida and third being Ms Aileen Ng). For the resume assignment, she did not give any pointers before the submission, unlike other tutors who told their students what to expect. She only points out your mistakes after the assignment was returned, and marks would already be lost by then. However, she was more experienced than other tutors, and give many valuable job search tips and job interview tips during the tutorials.

As for the group presentation, she would look out for contents of your presentation. In addition, your presentation will be taped as well. To get the class participation, you just need to be proactive in answering her questions, and get into her good books.

If you're a Year 4 student, Semester 1 would be a better time to take this module as you can get your cover letter+resume ready for job search in Semester 2. Hence the resume done to your assignment can work to your advantage as it is already corrected by professionals. If not, the resume assignment would be just like any other assignment.

HP803/HP8003 Are you okay? Mental Health in Singapore (3AU)
Tutor: Dr Daniel Fung
Practice Notes
Review given in GER(PE)AHSS

AE4079/MA4079 Final Year Project-URECA (Technopreneurship) (10AU)
Asst Prof (Adj) Li King Ho Holden, Asst Prof Yoon Yong Jin
Result: A+
Review:
The weightage of every single project was different. For mine it goes like this:
Literature Survey: 20%
SOftware Development: 10%
Software Application: 20%
Design: 20%
Fabrication and testing: 20%
Laboratory/Site Investigation: 10%

The aim of my FYP project was to create a prototype of wearable medical device with both fall detection and position tracking capabilities.

This project was tough initially as it involves concepts outside my field of studies. It was really an all-encompassing engineering project, where I learn about computer algorithms (CE), biomechanics (BIE), navigation (AE) and electronics (EEE). I think I was quite lucky to be able to get the algorithms working in the field, hence I can give the project a nice conclusion. However, this project entices me as it provides solutions to real-world problem, and so will benefit the society. In fact, it helps to promote independent living among the elderlies, which is what a society facing an aging population should gear towards.

Being predominantly a programming project, I can do most of my FYP at home, which means I can have more flexibility in time. In addition, I do not have to stay back in school late or have to be physically at the lab to do my project. This is especially beneficial for me as I stay quite far from NTU and do not have a hall.

Programming projects require meticulousness and patience. Codes often run to thousand of lines, and it will never be bug-free at the first run. Every bug has to be checked line by line to ensure that there is no syntax error. I often have to start working early in the morning and end late at night.

Working with Prof Holden Li over the years have been fulfilling. He promotes independent thinking by making you solve your own problem, but he does give direction to make sure you are on the right track. He cares about our progress in studies. He often starts off the meeting by asking how we are doing in out studies, and gives his tips and advices. When exams are near, he would ask us to take a break and continue with the project during the holidays. In addition, he make resources readily available so they would be minimal delay to your project. Also, it was not hard scheduling a meeting with him even though he is an adjunct professor.

BEng Year 4 Semester 1

2008-11-27T20:02:00.003-08:00

Modules taken during Year 4 Semester 1:
- AE4001/MA4701 Aircraft Structures 2 (3AU)
- AE4011 Aircraft Design (3AU)
- BU8301 Fundamentals of Business Law (3AU)
- LK9001 Korean Level 1 (3AU)
- LF9001 French Level 1 (3AU)

Total No. of AU: 15
Overall GPA:

AE4001/MA4701 Aircraft Structures 2 (3AU)
Lecturers: Assoc Prof Ong Lin Seng, Assoc Prof Ng Teng Yong, Dr. Brian Stephen Wong
Personal Notes
Assignment
Study Techniques: Practice questions
Result:
Topics: Bending & Shearing of Thin-Walled Structures, Fracture Mechanics, Finite Element Method, Non-Destructive Testing
Review:
Prof Ong covers the first 2 parts on bending & shearing, as well as fracture mechanics. This part is 40% of the final paper. While his teaching was alright, his pace was too fast due to the limited time given, as it was difficult to absorb what was taught.
Prof Ng's teaching was fabulous. His pace was just right, and he helps us to understand concept taught with the use of appropriate examples. However, the FEM assignment that he gave was taught and required a lot of time to run the simulations. It would be best not to skip the tutorials for FEM assignment, as you can 'share' findings with your friends (i.e. know that who got the best results and thus copy his shape). With practice and careful calculation, this segment is alright. It is important to master this topic as it covers 50% of the final.
While NDT was supposed to be easy and straightforward, I was a little confused by Dr. Wong's teaching. I feel that he has a lot to share with us, yet he is required to cover the examinable concepts.

AE4011 Aircraft Design (3AU)
For MA4701 Aircraft Design I (3AU) and MA4703 Aircraft Design II (2AU)
Lecturers: Assoc Prof. Tonse Gokuldas Pai, Assoc Prof. Sunil Chandrakant Joshi
Phase 1 Presentation
Phase 2 Presentation
Final Presentation
Result:
Review:
This is 1 of the toughest and time-consuming module for the whole Aerospace Engineering education. It consists of 3 presentations and 1 group report.

The professor that you'll be liaising with most of the time is Prof. Pai. Because of this module, my opinion of him changes from what I had of him after AE3002. Contrary to other Aerospace students have of him, I feel that he is the most 'zai' professor in the Aerospace faculty. He practically knows everything about aircraft, from the preliminary designs all the way to costing. Likewise, he is proficient in any aspects of the aircraft, whether it is structures, flight control or aerodynamics. He was nice to help students with problem outside tutorial time. However, he do ask tough questions during Q&A for presentation, so it is best to know what you are doing.

For this module, it is best to form groups with people early (in fact, before the registration of the module), and with people that you know you can work with. It will be good if each member of the group is specialised in each field of Aerospace (Propulsion, Flight Control, Structures).

LK9001 Korean Level 1 (3AU)
Tutor: Dr. Yoon Meekyung
Personal Notes
Study Techniques: Memorise vocabulary and understand sentence structure
Result: S
Review:
Dr. Yoon is very patient with her teaching, and also can be quite strict in that she makes sure that you submit your homework at the end of each lesson. If you happen to miss 1 of her classes, she would give you a brief overview at the end of the lesson so that you won't miss out much. Although I did not ask about other teachers for the same course, I can say that she is one of the best teachers.
This module is quite tough as compared to French. After every lesson, I have to spend 2-3 hours to complete each homework. On top of that, there are 4 class quizzes, 2 listening quizzes and 1 individual oral presentation (script has to be memorised). It is a tough module, and you can do well only if you're passionate about K-pop and korean drama. I decided to S/U the subject as I could not gauge how well I score among the cohort, and did not want to take the risk.

LF9001 French Level 1 (3AU)
Tutor: Mr Francais Bretault Rene Marie
Personal Notes
Study Techniques: Memorise grammar form
Result: S
Review:

Mr Francais is one of the best French teacher for the foundation course in French language (based on reviews by my friends who have taken the course). He builds up our foundation in the first lesson by teaching us how to pronounce the French alphabets (although it's not needed for this course). The first few lessons are tough, but I appreciate it towards the end of the semester as it becomes very easy to study the sentence structures taught. This is unlike another French class that I managed to crash unknowingly, where the tutor just start with the syllabus and do not care much about the students' progress.
Mr Francais' class is usually quite fun. He allows us to make mistakes in class so that we can learnt from them. Our progress is also monitored as he often ask us to 'fill in the blanks' in class. Also, he helps to sustain our interest in the language, by introducing French songs of various genres to us (although I was more interested in K-pop then). If I had taken this module earlier, I would very much want to do the second level course with him.
I decided to S/U the subject as I could not gauge how well I score among the cohort and did not want to take the risk (I got 25/30 for CA1 and 22/30 for CA2. Oral exam grades should be quite good as our presentation is quite well prepared and humorous). Final exam for this semester is easy as well.

BEng Year 3 Semester 1

2008-11-27T20:02:00.001-08:00

Modules taken during Year 3 Semester 1:
- AE3001/MA3700 Aircraft Structures 1 (3AU)
- AE3002 Flight Mechanics (3AU)
- AE3004/MA8005 Aircraft Electrical Systems and Devices (3AU)
- AE3005 Aerodynamics 2 (3AU)
- HW210/HW0210 Technical Communications (2AU)
- HP801/HP8001 Mind Over Stress (3AU)
- AE4079/MA4079 Final Year Project-URECA (Technopreneurship) (10AU)

Total No. of AU: 17
Overall GPA:

AE3001/MA3700 Aircraft Structures 1 (3AU)
Lecturer: Assoc Prof Lin Rong Ming
Personal Notes
Cheat Sheet
Assignment
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Result: A

Review:
This course comprises of 1 assignment (which should be about 15% of total and can be finished in 1 day with Matlab), 1 quiz (15% of total, 5 very tricky MCQ questions), and 70% on final exam (most say hard but some say easy).
For this module, I manage to understand everything that's going on, because of difficulty level is quite low. However, the determining factor is still based on whether you manage to get the EOM correct during exam. It was one of my less focused module for the semester (the other being AE3004). All the flaws that a typical hardworking student shouldn't be doing, I have my share of them, such as:
1. Talking to friends during lectures
2. Not attempting a single tutorial (ok attempted the first one, but all my answers are incorrect, so didn't bother to do subsequent one).
3. Flunked my quiz, though I've studied for it (lost about 6% of the overall marks).

But some things that I did right:
1. Reading the lecture notes beforehand (to find out what I didn't comprehend so that I'll listen properly during lectures).
2. Reading the textbook on train (I guess it didn't really help much).
3. Copy tutorial solutions during class even though solutions will be posted.
4. Because of the long break from my 2nd last paper (AE3002) to last paper (AE3001), I've practiced the lecture problems and tutorial questions twice (the other time being before quiz).
As for the final, when I compare my answers with my friends (who's an aerogod), I find that most of my answers are incorrect. But judging from the grades that my friends obtained, and that most of them did quite well, I guess the result that I've obtained are due to moderation rather than competency. I personally feel that I'm weak at that subject as of now. But still it's not a subject you can totally ignored till the last minute.

AE3002 Flight Mechanics (3AU)
For MA2701 Flight Performance (2AU) and MA3703 Flight Dynamics (3AU)
Lecturers: Asst Prof Yongki Go/Visiting Prof Tonse Gokuldas Pai
Personal Notes
Cheat Sheet:
Front
Back
Assignment
Quiz
Study Techniques: Mindmaps + Cheat Sheet
Result: A

Review:
Ask any seniors and they would say that this is the killer module for Year 3. Why so? Casualties rate are high, and there are cases of tabao. This course consists of 1 big assignment by Prof Yongki Go (Most took 6-7 days, but can be finished in 1 day of Matlab and 1 day of report-typing, about 15%), 1 super tricky quiz by Prof TG Pai (15 MCQ questions that I dont have time to finish but still, better remember to elaborate on your answers, about 15%) and a killer 2.5hr final exam (that you would need 3/3.5 hr to finish, 70% of total).
The first part is by Prof Yongki Go. He covers the content of aircraft performance fast within 1 week, followed by a super hard and super waste time assignment. I was careless on that part (even though most of my answers are featured in the solution), so didn't score that good. The first two questions in the final exam are set by Prof Yongki Go too. It's still do-able but like the assignment, very tedious and abit tricky. But the aircraft performance part, the questions have a standard way of answering, so not much trick on that part.
The second part is performance and stability by Prof TG Pai. This is the super difficult part, as flight stability and control is a concept that you'll need time to fully understand. Prof Pai is a great lecturer. During his lecture, although sometimes he got confused with himself (as he was rushing to finish the syllabus) and his accent are hard to catch, but somehow you can feel that he's very knowledgeable and passionate about what he teach. But sadly, he wasn't given enough time to finish his lectures, and also he's kind enough not to have make-up lectures (when so many public holidays fall on the days of his lectures).
As for the final exam, the first 2 question by Prof Go was tedious but do-able. The last 2 questions by Prof Pai is super difficult. In fact, if I didn't have a nightmare that I can't finish the paper on time, I wouldn't have thought of skipping questions and try to complete as much questions. Actually I quite like this module from the start, but it's a pity that I wasn't the best student. Overall, it's an interesting module which I would like to pursue on in the future.

AE3004/MA8005 Aircraft Electrical Systems and Devices (3AU)
Lecturer: Dr Mohammed Haque/Assoc Prof So Ping Lam
Personal Notes
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Result: A+

Review:
This module consists of 20% quiz (consisting of 5 MCQ questions) and 80% final exam. This is equivalent to EE2005, and the same professors from EEE also teach this module. They're quite good and somehow quite 'trained' in this module, so much so that they keep emphasizing what will come out for the quiz and exam.
For this module, I didn't attempt the tutorial questions beforehand. However, I copy solutions during tutorials as a form of learning, in addition to attempting the tutorial questions twice after (once before quiz, once before exam). In addition, I've practiced on the lecture solutions twice as well. I manage to finish the exam on time, and also complete most of the questions satisfactorily.

AE3005 Aerodynamics 2 (3AU)
Lecturer: Asst Prof Jörg Schlüter
Personal Notes
Cheat Sheet
CFD Assignment
Quiz
Wiki Assignment
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Result: A

Review:
This module consists of 5% CFD assignment, 10% Quiz, 15% Wiki Assignment and 70% final exam. For this module, it's bit more challenging to me than the rest, as I didn't have a good foundation for low-speed aerodynamics, and I've forgotten most of my thermodynamics. In addition, there's a lot of waste-time component here, such as taking 5 days to run all the simulations for CFD assignment (for just 5%), spending time to type the Wiki assignment (and trying to convert what I've typed to picture file so that things would appear just like in MSword, but in the end we can also upload our word documents). The quiz was actually alright, just that I act smart and wrote what I shouldn't, so I didnt score well. As for the final exam, I've got my timing wrong, so I didn't manage to finish my paper in time.
Overall, this module is not very xiong, as tutorials are few. In addition, Prof Schluter seems to be more slack than the previous AE3005 lecturer. But there's still a need to put in certain amount of effort to do well.

HW210/HW0210 Technical Communications (2AU)
Tutor: Ms Aileen Ng Cheng Cheng
Result: A

Review:
This module is very fun to me, especially when I have 4 great friends in my group. Everyone do their part for the project, and we're all dedicated to get good grades. In addition, we worked smart. Our experiments took us only half a day and the rest of the results are 'smoked', yet we put up a convincing project that few would rebute. I guess the group dynamics is there as we share a lot of things in common. As for the tutor, she's quite 'mechanical', in that you have to write up the report and present the project to her specifications, if not you won't be able to score. There's no specific way of scoring for this module, so what I can advise is to adapt according to the tutor.

HP801/HP8001 Mind Over Stress (3AU)
Lecturer: Ms Siew Mann Diong
Result:
Review placed at GER(PE) AHSS.

AE4079/MA4079 Final Year Project-URECA (Technopreneurship) (10AU)
Asst Prof (Adj) Li King Ho Holden, Asst Prof Yoon Yong Jin

BEng Year 2 Semester 2

2008-11-27T20:01:00.002-08:00

Georgia Institute of Technology (Exchange Programme)

Modules taken during Year 2 Semester 2:
- AE2020 Low Speed Aerodynamics (3 credits)
- AE2699 Undergraduate Research (2 credits)
- AE3515 System Dynamics & Control (4 credits)
- AE4451 Jet & Rocket Propulsion (3 credits)
- AE4580 Avionics Integration (3 credits)
- ME4210 Manufacturing Processes and Engineering (3 credits)
- MGT3102 Managing Human Resources (3 credits)
- MP003U DSO-UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH on Campus (3AU)

Total No. of credits: 21 credits (20AU)
Total No. of AUs: 3
Overall GPA (GT): 3.67
Overall GPA (NTU): 5.00

At this time of my writing, I've completed my Year 3 semester 1 of studies. My education in Georgia Tech has been one of my memorable moments. Compared to the modules at NTU, some were slacker while others are more challenging (AE3515 & AE4580 in particular). Although I very much would have like to 'enjoy' life there, I guess some things have to be sacrificed so that I can keep up with the ABP pace. Overall, an education in an elite university (2nd best in Aerospace Engineering in the world) is certainly different. Grades wise, I'm quite satisfied as it's better than I expect.

AE2020 Low Speed Aerodynamics (3 credits)
Professor Robert Funk
For AE2003/MA3701 Aerodynamics 1 (3AU)
20% Assignment, 20% Mid-Term 1, 20% Mid-Term 2, 40% Final
Personal Notes
Study Techniques: Notes
Result: A

Prof Funk is actually a research engineer in Georgia Tech. At first we thought he wasn't a good lecturer as he always talk to himself in class (and there's another better class by Prof. Sankar, but that doesn't fit most of our slots). Most of the time, I wasn't listening in class, as whatever he has written can be found in the textbook (Fundamentals of Aerodynamics by Anderson). But it turns out to be the slackest module I had (for others, it's a material science course which I've crashed also). Well, most of the assignments we're getting above 90 marks, while our class average was around 65? Mid-terms and finals consist of 40% closed book and 60% open book. Closed book part was hard as it was based on definitions (which I'm not good at). Open book part was a replicate of assignment questions. I cleared this module only remembering Helmhortz Vortex theorem and Kutta condition haha!

AE2699 Undergraduate Research (2 credits)
Prof Mavris Dimitri/Carl Johnson
For AE2072/3071 Aerospace Labs (2AU)
For MA2008 Experimental Methods for Engineers (1AU) + MA3071 Mechanical Experiments (1AU)
Result: A
Lab Report

This part was quite taxing though, as we have to spend 8 hours every week (6pm to 10pm every tues and thurs). We worked with a design team who would be participating in a competition. I guess the Americans there don't trust our modelling skills (ok la it's only me who's unskilled, my other two friends were much better), so it end up in a 'talk cock sing song' session. Well, it's because of this that I missed quite a number of events organised by OIE, and made me have the most taxing timetable (Tues and Thurs was from 8am in the morning to 10pm at night, with one hour breaks for lunch and dinner each). In the end, it turns out we're there to observe what they do as a 'researcher', and our report (done by 3 person) can earn us an A. Amazing module to clear 2 labs though (:

AE3515 System Dynamics & Control (4 credits)
Prof Amy Pritchett
For AE4002/MA3705 Aerospace Control Theory (3AU)
50% Assignment, 20% Final, 15% Pop Quizzes, 15% Mid-Term
Personal Notes:
Cheat Sheet (MidTerm)
Cheat Sheet (Final)
Study Techniques: Cheat Sheet
Result: B

This is a killer module by itself, and what's more it's made very much into MIT-type of education. Professor Pritchett is an amazing lady and lecturer, but as she hails from MIT (BSc, MSc and PhD), she made this module super 'challenging'. An assignment each week requires at least 2 days to finish, plus it is a must to attend the tutorial class to be able to finish the assignment. Pop quizzes were flying everywhere. But I guess it beats clearing this module by joining Feron's classes (he's a killer). This module is the biggest spoiler of my life during exchange, since I can't go out of states often over weekend as I have to spend time finishing the assignment. Well, I guess in exchange for getting a good education and saving money, it wasn't a bad module to clear.

AE4451 Jet & Rocket Propulsion (3 credits)
Prof Jechiel Jagoda
For AE3006/MA3702 Aircraft Propulsion (3AU)
10% Assignment, 10% Computer Assignment, 20% Mid-Term 1, 20% Mid-Term 2, 40% Final
Personal Notes
Computer Project
Study Techniques: Cheat Sheet
Result: A

Prof Jagoda was a good lecturer, but I just find his pace abit slow (More so since it's very sleepy especially after I have a rushed lunch). Assignments were tough as his TA who marked it was very strict. The computer assignment was quite simple, mid-terms not sure why I still scored the top few though I screwed up. But quite satisfied with the A, since it's a module that I took alone (none of the exchange aerospace students took with me, and I had literally no friends until I know someone from my lab who took it towards the end of the semester). He encouraged me to come back and do research if I do not have any career plans in mind. Well maybe?

AE4580 Avionics Integration (3 credits)
Prof Eric Johnson
For AE4003/MA4705 Aircraft Navigation and Flight Computers (3AU)
35% Assignment, 15% Project, 15% Mid-Term, 35% Final
Personal Notes
Project
Study Techniques: Notes
Result: A

Prof Johnson has an extraordinary wife, who's none other than Prof Pritchett. This is an enjoyable module, and it should be termed more as 'Introduction to Avionics' . Although the Matlab assignments were a killer that we almost wanted to drop this module, the mid-terms and exams were a breeze, so long as you memorise the concepts and terms rather than understanding the mathematics. Reading the textbook makes you more confused, so just stick with the textbook. Overall, Prof Johnson live up to his name of giving free As, since I barely passed the mid-term, and my final was a so-so.

ME4210 Manufacturing Processes and Engineering (3 credits)
Prof Tequila A.L. Harris
For AE2011 Introduction to Aircraft Design & Manufacturing (3AU)/MA2005 Engineering Graphics (3AU)
10% Homework, 10% Case Studies, 10% Project, 20% Exam 1, 20% Exam 2, 30% Final
Personal Notes:
Cheat Sheet
Mindmaps
Assignment Report
Assignment Cover Page

Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Result: B

She might be an exceptional researcher, but in my opinion (and many others), she cannot teach. She sometimes wasn't clear of what she's teaching, and keeps correcting herself until you don't know what's right. Reading the textbook helps to a small extent in understanding. She was quite biased towards the Singaporean exchange students (we like to discuss among ourselves for concepts that she mislead us softly), so I guess that's where the B comes in, although I screwed my finals anyway.

MGT3102 Managing Human Resources (3 credits)
Prof Charles Parson
For AE4008 Human Resource Management (3AU)
Personal Notes
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Result: A

Professor Parson was a good professor, often bringing his insight from his years of working experience to class. Assignments was varied also, although you have to be very careful with the format to score full marks. The exams were closed-book, which is the tough part (particularly because there're too many concepts). But it's a great insight into the HR policies in USA, and they have so many laws to protect their workers. Relating back to the situation in Singapore, I would say we didn't enjoy some of the human rights that they have. But anyway, overall getting an A in this module would require a lot of effort, as the ladies in this module were especially strong academically.

MP003U DSO-Undergraduate Research on Campus (3AU)
Asst Prof(Adj) Li King Ho Holden
Interfacing MEMS Based Motion Sensors in Military Electronics Devices
Result: A+

For this research, it focuses more on system integration. I guess it's because of the right mix that I manage to score well for URECA. I took two important modules, namely Avionics and System Dynamics and Control, which allows me to relate back to my research. It was a crash at first, for buying the wrong devices or devices that didn't work satisfactorily in Singapore (especially when it has to do with GPS).
In addition, I also took some effort to finish the TSV research that my professor assigns me to. It's great to be able to work with Dr. Muhannad Bakir, a researcher renowned in the field of TSV. We mutually agree that I would do a topic on thermomechanical analysis, which requires the use of ANSYS software, something which I have already learnt. I thought he didn't have the expertise to help me with this software, so I decided to spend more time and figure it out for myself. I did a report for him which he was quite impressed with, and I hope it really aids in his research work. But if given another chance, I would have chosen to do something under my field, and maybe try something new in the field of microelectronics.
Working with Prof Li would require a lot of self-discipline and independence, as he's a busy person and has multiple projects on hand. But he's an enjoyable person to work with, who's concerned about your self-development on top of your research work. That's why I'm still working with him now for my FYP.

BEng Year 2 Semester 1

2008-11-27T20:01:00.001-08:00

Modules taken during Year 2 Semester 1:
- AE2001/MA3006 Fluid Dynamics (4AU)
- AE2004/MA8006 Circuits & Electronics (3AU)
- AE2005/MA1001 Aerospace Dynamics (3AU)
- AE2071/MA2071 Laboratory 2A (1AU)
- AE3003/MA3003 Heat Transfer (3AU)
- MB103/BU8501 Principles of Marketing (3AU)
- MB363/BU8401 Management Decision Tools (3AU)
- BS801/BS8001 Genes R Us (3AU)

Total No. of AU: 23
Overall GPA: 5.00

This is an especially tough semester, and I would say it should be the toughest one for my whole undergraduate life. I have to juggle between studies, CCA and preparing for exchange. AE2005 has Matlab assignment, MB103 has 3 marketing presentations, MB363 has a group presentation plus 2 graded assignments, and AE2001 has additional classes to make up the extra AU. This result was a exceptional surprise for me, as it is much better than expected when I was prepared for the worst.

AE2001/MA3006 Fluid Mechanics (4AU)

Personal Notes

Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Results: A+
Contents:
- Submerged surfaces and bodies
- Elementary fluid dynamics
- Momentum equation and its application
- Dimensional analysis and similtude
- Internal flows and piping systems
- Principles and applications of fluid machines

Fluid Mechanics to me was tough, as I'm generally weak in theoretical physics, especially if it's about imagining flow. In addition, there's a change in syllabus, such that Aerospace students have to take an extra topic to make up the 4AU. But since AE2001 is a shared module with ME students, there's more pyp and its solution available for practice. I guess with more practice from the pyp, should be able to score for this module.

AE2004/MA8006 Circuits & Electronics (3AU)

Personal Notes
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Results: A
Contents:
- DC Circuit Analysis
- AC circuit Analysis
- Introduction to Electronics
- Digital Electronics
- Analog Electronics.

This module is a rushed course, covering rudimentary concepts from electrical and electronics, if you take a look at its contents. Besides, the two lecturers are rushing to finish the syllabus, so it's not an easy module as it seems. Not sure how my A come about, especially when I screwed an easy op-amp question (Gain=6000). I guess to do well, is to have a good grasp of the concept and do well in the mid-term quiz.

AE2005/MA1001 Aerospace Dynamics (3AU)

Personal Notes
Assignment
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Results: A

Well, any module by Prof Yongki Go would be tough, as he hails from MIT. Aerospace Dynamics has a total of 18 topics, with the last 6 especially hard to digest. I guess I was lucky to be doing URECA project touching some of these concepts, so I have to made myself understand, if not I'll get screwed twice. I barely passed the mid-term quiz (think I got 56). The Matlab assignment was very hard to complete if you do not have a strong foundation in Matlab, so brush up with Matlab when you're free in Year 1, if you're not lucky to be in CN Yang. A bit of luck would play as well, as I manage to solve a seemingly easy question which might be perceived as tough. So in summary, to score for this module, you would need understanding, Matlab and luck.

AE3003/MA3003 Heat Transfer (3AU)

Personal Notes
Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Results: A+
Contents:
Conduction:
-formulation of heat conduction problems
- one dimensional problems
- conduction with heat generation
- fin and general lumped capacitance analysis.
Convection:
- conservation transfer equations
- dimensional analysis
- flow over flat plate
- forced convection in pipes
- forced convection correlations
- free convection correlations
- Heat exchanger analysis
Radiation:
- black body radiation exchange
- radiation exchange between multi-gray surfaces.

Heat transfer wasn't that simple for me. It's more of 1% thermodynamics (only first law of thermodynamics is needed), and 60% fluid mechanics, so I'm wondering why the prerequisite is thermodynamics. Anyway I have to learn convection before elementary fluid dynamics was taught, but once I learnt that in fluid mechanics course, everything falls into place. I guess for this module, it's just constant practice to score.

AE2071/MA2071 Laboratory 2A (1AU)
Results: A
Lab Report

This lab module was especially tough, as my lab project supervisor was Prof Yongki Go. The cam project was totally out of my league of understanding, and what makes it worse is that it's an individual assignment. In addition, a normal 3 hour lab would usually extend to 4/4.5 hours just to finish writing the report. I guess to score, you would need a super kiasu lab groupmates and a slack project supervisor.

BEng Year 1 Semester 2

2008-11-27T20:00:00.002-08:00

Modules taken during Year 1 Semester 2:
- AE1002 Discovery Course 2/MA1700 Introduction to Aerospace Engineering II (1AU)
- AE2002 Mathematics 3 (3AU)
- AE2006/MA2007 Thermodynamics (4AU)
- AE2007 Mathematics 4/MA2006 Engineering Mathematics (3AU)
- AE2008/MA2001 Mechanics of Materials (3AU)
- AE2009/MA2700 Aerospace Materials(3AU)
- AE4007 Engineers & Society/MA0101 Singapore Studies (3AU)
- HP802 Working in the 21st Century(3AU)

Total No. of AU: 23
Overall GPA: 4.90

AE1002 Discovery Course 2/MA1700 Introduction to Aerospace Engineering II (1AU)

Goal: A
Result: A-
Lab Report
Tutor: Prof RC Mehta
Contents:
- Discovery Lab Case Study I: Aerodynamics
- Discovery Lab Case study II: Propulsion
- Discovery Lab Case Study III: Aircraft Structure and Vibration
- Discovery Lab Case Study IV: Water Rocket Propulsion
- Discovery Lab Case Study V: Crash Investigation
- Discovery Lab Case Study VI: Glider Design Competition
Mistakes made:
- Not serious.
- Never research on other possibilities of making glider plane.
- Should have bought a new model so as to experiment with the given model.
Tips for scoring:
- Invest your time and $.
- Research more on making a good glider plane.
- Don't add too much weight to your glider.
- Ensure your glider plane always be in topmost structural integrity.
- Do well for your lab experiments.
- Be serious even if it's 1 AU.

AE2002 Mathematics 3 (3AU)

Mindmap
Notes

Study Techniques: Mindmap
Goal: A+
Result: A+
Tutor: Prof Lin Rong Ming
Contents:
- Probability & Statistics
- Matrix Analysis/Linear Algebra
- Vector Differential Calculus
- Vector Integral Calculus.
How did I study? (Tips for scoring)
- Listen attentively in class and take notes.
- Practice all the questions in the tutorials.
- Do regular practice by attempting most of the textbook problems with answers (for almost all chapters except the last one).
- Do a mindmap to understand overall concept.
- Practice exam papers to gauge exam standard.
- Finish exam paper fast to have time to check answers.
Mistakes made:
- Didn't do well for quiz (should have sleep early instead of depriving sleep for extra revision time).
- Practice questions with tired mind (hence did not absorb concepts well).

AE2006/MA2007 Thermodynamics (4AU)

Mindmap
Study Techniques: Mindmap
Goal: A+
Result: A+
Tutor: Prof Jeffrey Low
Contents:
- Properties of pure substances.
- Work and heat
- Energy and the first law
- Energy balance for closed systems and steady state control volumes
- Second law and entropy
- Entropy balance for closed systems and steady state control volumes
- Thermodynamic cycles for power plants and refrigeration systems
- Ideal gas mixtures and psychrometrics
- Reacting mixtures and combustion
How did I study? (Tips for scoring)
- Read up before every chapter.
- Listen attentively in class and take notes.
- Practice all the questions in the tutorials.
- Do regular practice by attempting textbook problems with answers (for almost all chapters except the last three).
- At first, did my own notes but after the quiz, find that I didn't link my concepts well. Hence did a mindmap to understand the links between concept.
- Practice exam papers to gauge exam standard
Mistakes made:
- Go for lectures with tired mind (hence did not absorb anything and waste time to understand later).
- Enjoy myself too much during tutorials.
- Read up too early before lectures. Should have go for lectures, then read up textbooks and do tutorial and practice to optimally absorb concepts.
- Did not do regular revision (due to time constraints).

AE2007 Mathematics 4/MA2006 Engineering Mathematics (3AU)

Mindmap
Notes
Study Techniques: Mindmap
Goal: A+
Result: A+
Tutor: Prof Lam Chung Yau
Contents:
- Complex Variables
- Fourier Analysis
- Laplace Transform
- Partial Differential Equations.
How did I study? (Tips for scoring)
- Listen attentively in class and take notes.
- Practice all the questions in the tutorials.
- Do regular practice by attempting most of the textbook problems with answers (for almost all chapters except the last one).
- Do a mindmap to understand overall concept.
- Practice exam papers to gauge exam standard.
- Finish exam paper fast to have ample time to check answers.
Mistakes made:
- Practice questions with tired mind (hence did not absorb concepts well).

AE2008/MA2001 Mechanics of Materials (3AU)

Mindmap
Study Techniques: Mindmap
Goal: A+
Result: A+
Tutor: Prof Lu Guoxing
Contents:
- Review of concepts of equilibrium and free body diagram
- Stress and strain
- Torsion
- Bending stresses in beams
- Shearing stresses in beams
- Transformation of stress and strain
- Yield and fracture criteria
- Deflection of beams
- Columns
How did I study? (Tips for scoring)
- Go for every single lecture religiously.
- Listen attentively during lectures and take notes.
- Practice all the questions in the tutorials.
- Do regular practice by attempting textbook problems with answers (for almost all chapters except the last one).
- Did mindmap to understand link between concepts.
Mistakes made:
- Exam anxiety and carelessness during both CA and actual exam.
- Read up and practice too early before lectures (hence did not fully comprehend the concepts).
- Attempt some tutorials too early before concept was taught.

AE2009/MA2700 Aerospace Materials(3AU)

Mindmap
Assignment
Study Techniques: Mindmap
Goal: A+
Result: A-
Tutor: Prof Liu Yong
How did I study? (Tips for scoring)
- Being serious about the CA assignment (20 page report).
- Memorise every single concept (especially for aero modules where anything can come out).
- Listen attentively during lectures and take notes.
- Clarify with tutors when in doubt.
- Copying down tutorial solutions so as to understand the way to answer questions.
- Read up textbooks before lesson.
- Religiously do every single tutorial (except the last one as I don't understand NDT).
Mistakes made:
- Go for lectures with a tired mind (hence did not absorb anything).
- Did not do regular revision after lectures (most of the concepts learnt are from last minute revision).
- Read up too advance before lectures.
- Focus too much time on doing the CA assignment.
- Attempting the wrong question during exam in the last 30 minutes.
- Mental block during exams (because of over-complex mindmap. Will try to discover a better method of memorising).

AE4007 Engineers & Society/MA0101 Singapore Studies (3AU)

Personal Notes
Study Techniques: Mindmap
Goal: A+
Result: A
Tutor: Prof Lim Mong King
How did I study? (Tips for scoring)
- Read up before and during lectures (even when I skipped them, I would read them on the day of the lectures in my hostel).
- Being serious about the group assignments and the modules itself.
- Memorise and understand all the concepts.
- Read up on the book 'The World is Flat' and my Secondary 3 and 4 Social Studies textbooks before exam.
- Go through every exam papers not only to have a gauge of exam standard, but also to predict what might come out.
- Practice the latest exam papers (to gauge writing speed so as to have time to finish the paper).
- Write a lot during the exam and have ample time to check for MCQ questions.
Mistakes made:
- Skip many lectures (almost half of them).
- Did not do regular revision after lectures.
- Should have spend more time and focus on the 3 group assignments (which make up 40%).
- Have slight mental block and hence some concepts memorised wasn't presented.

BEng Year 1 Semester 1

2008-11-27T20:00:00.001-08:00

Modules taken during Year 1 Semester 1:
- AE1001 Discovery Course 1/MA9005 Introduction to Aerospace Engineering I (2AU)
- FE1001/FE1011 Physics 1 (4AU)
- FE1005 Materials Science (3AU)
- FE1007 Mathematics 2 (3AU)
- FE1008 Computing (3AU)
- FE1071 Laboratory 1A (1AU)
- HW110/HW0110 Effective Communication (2AU)
- MB106 Fundamentals of Management (3AU)

Total No. of AU: 21
Overall GPA: 4.50

AE1001 Discovery Course 1/MA9005 Introduction to Aerospace Engineering I (2AU)

Personal Notes

Study Techniques: Cheat sheet
Assignment

Results: B+
Content:
- Historical Perspective Of Aerospace Engineering
- Overview Of Aerospace Clusters
- Introduction To Aerodynamics
- Introduction To Propulsion
- Overview Of Aircraft Support Systems
- Introduction To Aerospace Materials
- Introduction To Maintenance, Reliability And Overhaul (Mro)
- Safety
- Regulatory Issues.
How did I study?
Didn't really study hard for this subject. Hardly touch it except when exam, tests and assignment comes. Sleepy during lectures. A grave mistake for condescending this module because it's 2AU.

Mistakes made:
- Not serious about the module
- Not proficient in aircraft stuff beforehand (I never heard of fuselage and nacelle before this course)
- Never read up before lectures
- Never do mindmaps
- Never do regular revision
- Never practice textbook problems at all (except before tests)
- Watch youtubes when doing exam revision
- Doing cheat sheet is my only mode of revision
- Not paying attention during lecture
- Over-investing on difficult question (spend 1 hour on it), and not checking my paper during the exam.

Tips for scoring:
1. Be serious about this subject (even though it's 2AU only)
2. Read up about aircrafts before you start the module
3. It's super important to pay attention in class (You'll understand why)
4. Read up the chapters to be covered before lectures
5. After lectures, try out problems in textbook and tutorials
6. Do your revision after every lecture (use this time to do your mindmap)
7. From experience, there's normally about 1 week for revision (Sadly I don't have this privilege. Took Maths 2). As such, plan your fun and revision well
8. In exam, do leave difficult questions to the last and come back to them later. Sometimes giving up is better than clinging on.
9. Do check your paper (Normally engineering papers are 2.5 hour but can be completed in 2 hour or less)

Overall Opinion:
It started off tough, as I find it hard to understand English with strong Indian accent. Then a lecturer who is super soft (maybe I was sitting too far). Next, a lecturer who likes to use super small font (printed 2 by 2 slides per page using laser printer and can't see a thing. Imagine viewing this in lecture) and hides important concepts in ambiguous areas. After which, a lecturer who was pretty slow and steady.
But overall, the module turn out pretty interesting though. The major obstacle is the textbook 'Introduction to Flight'. It's simply unreadable. Don't be cheated by this small but thick book. The fonts are small (can read till you're cross-eyed), the whole book is in black and white, and most chapters are quite thick (Some >200 pages. Especially Chapter 4). Maybe I wasn't cut out for aero, but it was too late to regret my choice too. But somehow my interest was sparked and I manage to finish the essential chapters before the exam.
I'm certainly inspired after finishing this module. The interest in aircraft was sparked, and I'm all ready to take Year2 specialisation module.

FE1001 Physics 1 (4AU)/FE1011 Physics (2AU)

Personal Notes

Study Techniques: Summary Notes
Results: A-
Tutor: Prof Murali Damodaran
Content:
- Equilibrium and elasticity
- Kinematics of particles
- Kinetics of particles
- Kinematics of rigid bodies
- Kinetics of rigid bodies
- Fluids
- Temperature and ideal gases
- Laws of thermodynamics.

How did I study?
- Read up the notes before every lecture
- Try out the tutorial questions before lecture (sometimes engineer the answer from the solution)
- Listen attentively to lectures (most of the time)
- Practice textbook problems (Not all of them. Only the 'Additional Questions' part). Normally these are done before CA.
- Did only 1 round of revision before exam.
- Only did summary notes before exam.
- Practice many exam papers.

Mistakes made:
- Read up too early before lectures
- Do tutorials without understanding (Engineer the workings from the answer given at the back)
- Never practice textbook problems regularly.
- Doing mindmaps would have further aid understanding.
- Watch variety show before exam.
- Screw up both my CA.

Tips for scoring:
1. Read up the chapter (both textbook and notes) before every chapter.
2. Listen attentively during lectures.
3. Do your tutorials faithfully after lectures.
4. Practice textbook problems to improve understanding.
5. Do a mindmap as a review to the chapter.
6. Review the chapter before the CAs.
7. Do at least 2 revisions for the final exam. Within each revision, practice at least 2 exam papers.

Overall Opinion:
Somehow I think I do not have affinity in Physics among all the 3 sciences I took in JC. At least in Biology and Chemistry I was among the top 10, while for Physics I was nowhere in sight. Don't understand why I eventually choose a field of engineering that is so 'physics'-intensive. Nonetheless I hope my interest in aircrafts will tide me through the four years.
Why did I feel so? Well, I got the most terrifying Physics tutor in NTU. He set very high standard for us(which is good), knowledgeable, and very professional. So why didn't I like him after all the good points I list? Firstly, he uses only algebra in his workings, and before you could copy them to absorb later, alas, they are gone from the whiteboard. Secondly, if you're too slow in answering his questions (because he spontaneously calls you and you were too stunned to even open your mouth), floods of criticisms will pour upon you and you will feel super demoralised the whole day (which is quite a bad thing, esp when his tutorials are in the morning). Thirdly, when you leave the tutorial room, you'll see the adjacent class having physics tutorial as well, but they are having laughters with a round table discussion. Lastly, his CA are madly difficult (but somehow people can still get full marks. I dont understand why). Imitating him was super funny, but 'does it matter?' Nonetheless, I still respect him a lot, because he's done research at NASA. Yes NASA, my dream workplace in the future. It clearly shows that he is of very high calibre. What's more, he's the only Aeronautical PE in Singapore.
Ok back to the subject. It's possible for you to do well for this module (and definitely you have to consider that it's 4AU). The concept taught during the lecture was relatively easy to understand, but the application is difficult, so you definitely have to practice very hard (if you take the time to skive like I do, you'll find that some of the textbook questions are actually Physics Olympiad questions). Exam is open-book, so it's more important for you to understand the application of concept rather than memorising the formulas (but memorising formulas are still needed for CAs though).

FE1005 Materials Science (3AU)

Personal Notes

Study Techniques: Mindmaps
Results: A
Tutor:
Concepts:
- Bonding between atoms
- Building blocks of materials
- Crystal defects and diffusion
- Structural properties of materials
- Functional properties of materials
- Phases and microstructures
How did I study?
- Read up the notes before every lectures.
- Attempt the tutorials before the lectures.
- Read the textbook to aid further understanding when there's time (like bedtime stories)
- Did mindmaps either during lecture or after lecture.

Mistakes made:
- Not being serious about the subject (Thought being good in Chemistry is good enough, but didn't realise that was 2 years ago)
- Did tutorials without fully understanding the concept
- Didn't read the textbook seriously
- Never practice textbook questions
- Didn't have time to attempt many exam papers for practice before exam (only did 1/2 before the actual exam)
- Did mindmap during lecture (as such, wasnt paying attention in class)

Tips for scoring:
1. Read up the chapter (both textbook and notes) before every chapter.
2. Listen attentively during lectures.
3. Do your tutorials faithfully after lectures.
4. Practice textbook problems to improve understanding.
5. Do a mindmap as a review to the chapter.
6. Review the chapter before the CAs.
7. Do at least 2 revisions for the final exam. Within each revision, practice at least 2 exam papers.

Overall Opinion:
I feel that this subject was quite manageable even though I was quite slack. But the subject wasnt that taxing anyway. Lecture was few, and they started on the end of 3rd week and ended in early 11th week. All the lecturers are quite professional (as in just by listening the lectures, you will understand the concepts and thus does not feel the need to refer to textbook). However, because of the short duration, the lecture pace was quite fast. Tutorial questions was few, so it would be recommended to practice more problems from the textbook. My tutor was quite good in explaining (though her English wasn't that good as she is a chinese). Being a lady, she's very caring to me. But I felt embarassed for always being late for her class (the earliest lesson in the week at 8.30am). CAs were computerised MCQ, and it tested on some concepts not in the notes but in the textbook (which are equally important). For myself, by plain sheer bad luck, I always got the hardest question among my group of friends. But from the test, you can see that reading the textbook is very important, as the notes are only a brief summary.

FE1007 Mathematics 2 (3AU)

Personal Notes 1

Personal Notes 2

Study Techniques: Mindmaps/Notes
Results: A+
Tutor: Prof Kevin Xiao Gaoxi
Contents:
- Partial differentiation
- Multiple integrals
- Sequences and series
- First order differential equations
- Second order differential equations.
How did I study?
Listed as follow in the study tips.

Mistakes made:
- Didnt manage to finish all the textbook problems
- Try out the tutorial questions too early (and end up engineering my solution)
- Didnt practice much for ODE

Tips for scoring:
1. Read up the chapter before lecture (simply read and highlight the notes)
2. Pay attention during lectures (even though it can be boring)
3. Do your tutorials faithfully
4. After which, do your revision and mindmap
5. Practice all the textbook problems in Thomas Calculus
6. Review the chapter before the CAs.
7. Do at least 2 revisions for the final exam. Within each revision, practice at least 2 exam papers.

Overall Opinion:
I study very hard for this subject. The class size can scare you off. Imagine competing with students who tabao (and are very knowledgeable about the subject) or are maths prodigy that are exempted from maths1 (I'm not maths prodigy though. Don't even have F maths background). Well, just one silly mistake, and you'll see yourself at the other side of the bell curve.
My tutor was Prof Kevin Xiao, who happened to be the course coordinator as well (Note: we didn't got additional tips from him for the exam. He was very impartial, even dare not set extra ODE optional exercise for us because he has already seen the exam papers). At first I find him funny (the Chinese+American accent), but as days grown, I find that he is a VERY NICE tutor. Cares about our performance very much. And he explains SUPER WELL. Whatever concepts you dont understand, after his tutorials, you will be enlightened. The bad point is that his 1st 2 tests are insane (still remember his triple exp and triple In question).
I basically did most of the things that I've given in my tips. And yup, the Thomas Calculus textbook was the thickest among all my textbook this sem, so it was hard to miss it. But normally I only do chapter exercise 2/3 days before the actual test.
I would recommend people who are exempted maths1 (or have taken maths1 during special terms) to take up maths2 during this semester. Why?
1. The cohort is small, so lectures are less noisy. Easier to concentrate.
2. It can be observed (or is simply super obvious) that sem1 exams are so much easier that sem2. In fact, I was quite surprised to finish my 2.5hour paper in 1 hour, redo the whole thing once and check it twice. The best exam among the six.
3. The only disadvantage is the bell curve. But nonetheless, it can serve as a motivating tool.
But still, the ultimate choice is still yours.

FE1008 Computing (3AU)

Personal Notes

Study Techniques: Summary Notes
Results: A-
Tutor: Prof Meena
Contents:
- Introcution to computers
- C language fundamentals
- Flow of control
- Functions and libraries
- Arrays
- Basic file processing
- Structured programming and quality of programs
- Case studies in engineering applications.

How did I study?
- Make sure I try out and solve every single hands-on exercise.
- Read the textbook to understand the concept better (especially in Part 2 of computing)

Mistakes made:
- Didnt bother to do tutorials for part 2 of computing.
- Sleeping during lectures (from late night gaming)
- Didnt do revision after every chapter
- Didnt memorise important definition till before exam
- Summary notes was done only before exam.

Tips for scoring:
1. Read up the chapter (both textbook and notes) before every chapter (Yes, textbook is important, though you are not required to buy)
2. Listen attentively during lectures (It can be boring, but ENDURE)
3. Do your tutorials faithfully after lectures.
4. Practice the hands-on exercise. Make sure you are proficient in them
5. Do a mindmap as a review to the chapter (I'm not sure how you can do mindmap for computing, but where there's a will, there's a way)
6. Memorise important definitions and concepts.
6. Review the chapter before the CAs.
7. Do at least 2 revisions for the final exam. Within each revision, practice at least 2 exam papers.

Overall Opinion:
Most people find this module ok or easy, but somehow me and my friends don't. I'm not sure why. But I was relieved that I will most likely not tabao this module next semester. Computing was simply too tough.
It's quite hard to understand the concepts during lectures (you can't even understand the cold jokes given by the lecturer. They end up laughing to themselves). My tutor was quite good. With her explanation, we are simply enlightened to the new concept. The hands-on exercise was tough though, and normally could not be finished by the end of tutorial. For my class, both CAs was quite easy (Another class was given 1 whole tutorial session to finish the next hands-on exercise as part of their CAs, which was simply horrible). But I still don't understand why I got 50 marks for the last CAs (lowest in class) when my program works well, while those who couldnt finish the program got at least 80. Still can't get over with it. Maybe it was just pure bad luck.
I do hope the tips I have given was sufficient to score for the subject, or at least not to tabao it.

FE1071 Laboratory 1A (1AU)
Lab Report

Results: A
How did I study?
- Being serious about the subject (all thanks to my regular lab partner Habib)

Tips for scoring:
- Be serious about the subject (even though it's 1Au. Sometimes it means a lot)
- Attend all lab sessions.
- Do a good lab report.
- Discuss the results together as a lab team to minimise anomalies.

Overall Opinion:
Lab was quite ok (except for the hardest lab session on Moment of Inertia. Expect to spend 1 whole day on that lab report, and still end up being incorrect for the answer). The most enjoyable for me would be the part on 2D and 3D drawings (in CEE). Do read up more before doing your lab report.

HW110/HW0110 Effective Communication (2AU)

Study Techniques: None
Results: B+

How did I study?
- Attend every lectures and listen attentively (They're super amusing and a good way to relax)

Mistakes made:
- Never apply the tips that my tutor give for speech presentation
- Not being serious about the subject initially
- Not being active in class

Tips for scoring:
- Listen attentively during lecture (1. Can get started on your reflection paper early 2. Know the correct format of speech presentation)
- Being serious about all your assignments (both 1 & 2), as your grades are quite volatile.
- Being active in class.

Overall Opinion:
On the first look, this module is 2AU and don't have exam, you'll think that it's quite slack and as such become not serious about it. But when you understand the importance of 2AU, it's too late already. Anyway, this is a very fun module, and all the more you should be serious about it and enjoy yourself in both lecture and tutorial. The most dreadful part would be Assignment 2 (but for some people, it would be the speech presentation, as they have stagefright). But the most fun part would be the speech presentation (Of course it's when you're the audience and enjoying the speech). Some are quite amusing that you'll laugh non-stop, for some they're quite boring (but definitely you have to fight the Zzz monster away so that you won't want to look disrespectful).
For myself, I talked about why men should keep their moustache, with the classic example of Johnny Depp who was awarded the Sexiest Man Alive 2008 by Cosmopolitan. I was pretty nervous (can see my hand trembling when I hold the cards). I don't know why I kept the class laughing non-stop, and was quite happy that I got excellent for entertainment (the only person in class to get that). However, I do feel a little disappointed that I didnt get that good a grade that I wanted.
Overall, it's a really enjoyable module, where the class is most bonded among all your tutorial class. You'll definitely make many friends in this class.

October-December 2012

2008-11-27T19:56:00.005-08:00

July-September 2012

2008-11-27T19:56:00.003-08:00

1st July 2009

1st post for this link, and for the month! Gonna post something more upbeat :)

Grew up in a small town
And when the rain would fall down
I'd just stare out my window
Dreaming of what could be
And if I'd end up happy
I would pray

Trying hard to reach out
But when I tried to speak out
Felt like no one could hear me
Wanted to belong here
But something felt so wrong here
So I'd pray
I could break away

I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly.
I'll do what it takes till I touch the sky.
Make a wish, take a chance,
Make a change, and break away.
Out of the darkness and into the sun.
But I won't forget all the ones that I love.
I'll take a risk, take a chance,
Make a change, and break away

Wanna feel the warm breeze
Sleep under a palm tree
Feel the rush of the ocean
Get onboard a fast train
Travel on a jetplane
Far away
And break away

I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly.
I'll do what it takes till I touch the sky.
Make a wish, take a chance,
Make a change, and break away.
Out of the darkness and into the sun.
But I won't forget all the ones that I love.
I'll take a risk, take a chance,
Make a change, and break away

Buildings with a hundred floors
Swinging with revolving doors
Maybe I don’t know where they’ll take me
Gotta keep movin on movin on
Fly away
Break away

I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly.
Though it’s not easy to tell you goodbye
Take a risk, take a chance,
Make a change, and break away.
Out of the darkness and into the sun.
But I won't forget the place I come from
I gotta take a risk, take a chance,
Make a change, and break away
Breakaway
Break away

Yeah school gonna start soon :) 39 days and counting down...

April-June 2012

2008-11-27T19:56:00.001-08:00

January-March 2012

2008-11-27T19:55:00.003-08:00

October-December 2011

2008-11-27T19:55:00.001-08:00

July-September 2011

2008-11-27T19:54:00.002-08:00

April-June 2011

2008-11-27T19:54:00.001-08:00

January-March 2011

2008-11-27T19:53:00.002-08:00

27th March
This scene is from the Korean drama 'Dream High'. This is nice! Especially with the quote that I've found from an online source. I gonna watch this after exam and FYP, together with Athena and IRIS (:

13th March
Yesterday was the day of NTU open house as well as URECA exhibition. It feels great to have the chance to let other people know about our project, as well as to show our hard work that we have put in for the past few months. It's in fact more significant to me, as I planned to let the public know about my project, which I intend to commercialize later. In fact, I spend countless hours the day before to make sure my program works, even working till 2am (although I need to wake up at 6am). I would say the day end in more disappointment than expected.
1. The judges for the competition seemed not to know about the field of my project, as they asked very few questions during Q&A. They spend more time on the participants who are doing aerospace projects. I believe this will diminish my chance of getting an award.
2. The foreigners (esp the chinese) has a lot of friends who are participating in this competition, or are in hall during recess week. They intend to vote for each other to get popularity votes. This defeats the purpose of the competition, as it is supposed to be which project can attract the most attention.
3. The lady who keeps telling me that it would be my turn to do the video recording, although I waited 2 hrs in vain, delaying my lunch. And she didn't bother to apologize.
4. A bigger prototype attracts more attention than a small one. And I can't make my prototype any bigger as it's based on MEMS. Next year I shall do a better autopilot system for rc plane.
5. There's no welfare for the students. Students who participated in the open house get $12/hr, while we get nothing except a 4GB thumbdrive for showcasing our exhibit that no JC students would wanna come and see.
6. Professors who are looking for FYP students, and who are not interested in your project once they know that you are a current FYP student. Except Prof Yeo Soon Huat, he's a nice guy who bother to listen. Anyway, not all FYP students are Year 4. I still got a semester more to do research in school.
Anyway, I had the chance to take a break from my constant mugging and programming. It's a good time to catch up with my past CCA committee member, my UOC CGL, as well as meet new friends such as my partner Ye Jiankang, Yang Zhiren and Ng Yu Qi (also Holden's URECA student). Thank you zhiren and yuqi for waiting for me to have lunch together (:
Another hell week coming ahead. Gonna brace myself for it...

10th March
Today something surprising happened. As I was rushing to meet my friend yixiang at the tutorial room to study, an Aero junior whose name is Sheral (hope I didn't got it wrong. If you're the person, please correct me at the comment box yup (: ) stopped to congratulate me for the ISTAT scholarship as well as to thank me for sharing my notes and review. I feel very pleased to be thanked and my minimal effort has indeed helped someone in need, although I started this blog with no intention of getting any reward in return. Certainly hope to know of more people who have benefited from my sharing (:

17th February

Engineering student fighting with NBS student for internship = fail!
Haizz...

1st February

I had an embarassing moment today. I was late for school, so I walked quite fast to the LRT station. When I reached the platform, the LRT was about to left, so I manage to squeeze myself in at the front, between a lady in pink sleeveless blouse and a man in white. I manage to keep my balance on the moving train by holding onto the train door (using friction that is). When the LRT jerked out of a sudden when it was about to reach Sengkang station, I lose my balance, crushing the lady in pink standing beside. Well, the expert in fall detection had his day (because my FYP topic was on detection of falls among elderly). Surprisingly, the lady in pink managed to keep her balance and also supported me (to prevent me from falling further). I think I was too shocked (and also too rushed for time) that I only apologize. Perhaps I should have turned to thank her, because my weight should be quite overwhelming for her. When I have recovered from the shock, I don’t see her anyway on the Sengkang MRT platform, so I was feeling guilty throughout the trip.

But in any case, I owed her a big favour. I would like to personally thank her again for this. So if you’re this lady, or know of her, feel free to drop me a message (She’s wearing pink sleeveless blouse, standing beside a guy of average build and wearing a deep red Harvard T-shirt and ¾ pants at 9.20am LRT from Compassvale LRT, on 1^st February 2011).

30th January

Can you hear me? - Taeyeon

If - Taeyeon

If I go, if I go closer to you
I wonder what you may think, I can’t drum up the courage
If you go, if you go away from me
It is scary to figure out how to let you go
Perhaps, the reason I only look at you, like a fool,
is for fear that you may turn your face away, and
you and I may drift further apart
Perhaps, the reason I can’t say ‘I love you’, like a fool,
is that I am afraid of the painful sad days of waiting after we meet.

26th January

1st week of school, but things seem to be more uncertain than usual, which truly doesnt feel good.
1. To be caught between my professor who encourage to use my FYP project for Ideas Challenge, yet my partner finds it not feasible within the narrow timeframe.
2. Whether to continue starting a business.
3. Not sure whether I would be going for Ideas Challenge, so dropping french or not still an open option.
4. Not sure if not going for Ideas Challenge would affect my FYP grades.
5. Eager to learn French and Korean, but not sure if it's the right semester to do so.
6. Am I taking more than what I can eat?
Just hope things would be more or less cleared up before CNY.

23rd January

There's so many artistes nowadays, that some of them really look similar. For example:

She's Haruka Ayase. Doesn't she look like Ji-Yeon from T-ara? (Below)

21st January

(:

2010 ISTAT Foundation Scholarship Recipients

Broward College	USA	Michael Larbi
City University London	United Kingdom	Dinindu Sanjana Ranatunga
Danube University Krems	Austria	Adelheid Biermeier
ERAU- Daytona	USA	Tyler John Lonergan
ERAU- Prescott	USA	Dustin Fowler
Florida Institure of Technology	USA	Daniel Pruim
International University of Applied Sciences - Bad Honnef - Bonn	Germany	Sandra Wagner
Nanyang Tech University	Singapore	Kor Xian Thong Ronnie
Oklahoma State University	USA	Emma Smith
Purdue University	USA	Jennifer Sloane
T U Delft	Netherlands	Eshan Agrewel
University of Bristol	United Kingdom	Victor Mwenda Mwongera
University of Nebraska at Omaha	USA	LuLu-A-Ferdous
University of New South Wales	Australia	Sophia Alice Bremner
University of Western Ontario	Canada	Varun Mukundray Hargan

18th January

It's an imsomnia night even though results are already out. Perhaps it's gonna be one of the last few times where my hands actually got cold waiting for the release of results.
Although the previous semester, I wasn't as busy as what I used to be, but it's another attempt at the impossible. Year 3 Aero modules was already hard enough (although I shouldn't be complaining as I only took 4 out of the 6). 17AU and doing FYP at the same time was pretty crazy to many, but I can say I handled it ok. But my arts elective (HP801) was a big hiccup. Felt a big injustice on that, as the quiz results was released after the SU option was closed, and I didnt do well for the quiz. To SU or not was no longer an informed choice, and 'damage control' during the final wasn't adequate. But I can say that I've learnt my lesson of not SUing arts elective, and I'll SU the next one no matter what.
Some might say my scores are good, some might say I'm insane, some say I'm sarcastic to say my results aren't good enough. But if you had put in considerable effort and still didn't get what you want, don't you call that disappointment? For me, I had plans to do PhD, so every single score still counts, and that explains why I'm not happy. But oh well, 2 more semesters and I gotta work even harder.
Yesterday night was eventful. I've friends who did really well, those who manage to pass propulsion, those who didnt do well, as well as those who have to accept that last semester was their final journey in ntu. But I hope everyone still continues to do well in life.

16th January

It doesn't pay to be a good guy, neither does it hurt to be a bad one.
Food for thoughts.

12th January

0101, 1201, 2701, 1402, 1911, 2412, 3112

5th January

Some very 'powerful' old songs:

Old songs reborn:

4th January

So here it is: Top Ten Things I wish I Had Known in College

1. Your room for improvement is always your biggest room — so spend some time filling it up.

2. How do you combat inexperience? Over preparation.

3. There is never a substitute for enthusiasm: not skill, not talent, not expertise– the person with enthusiasm always wins.

4. In ever adversity, there lies a seed of equal or greater benefit.

5. Five years from now, your future will be most determined by the books you read and the people you associated with.

6. Many of the rewards in life come when you are out there on the extra mile.

7. You have to have some principles that you can believe in and that you won’t waver from.

8. Never forget where you came from…and you helped you get there.

9. There is no luck in success. Success is where opportunity and preparation meet.

10. Observe what the masses of people do, and then do the opposite.

2nd January

1st post of the year! Yeah! I think I would post on my blog often, since I should be relatively free this holiday.
I think I only started post-exam fun from 31dec (Although my exam ended on 23rd dec. Or theoretically I should slack from 15th dec as I have 8-days break to the last paper). FYP Interim Report is keeping me away from fun (I can't ignore it, as it will come back to haunt me and spoil my mood).
31st Dec, the last day of 2010, went off good. I slacked the whole morning playing facebook games. In the afternoon, I went to have a gaming session with my tech comm groupmates at gamehaven, where we had 3 hours of Wii fun (or should I say 3 hrs of Wii exercise, since our arms are totally shagged out). Rayman Raving Rabbits, Mario kart etc, they're really fun. Perhaps buying a Wii is a good investment haha! Following which, we had dinner at Newton Circus, where every seafood stalls there are haunting us to patronize.
After dinner, I head back home before going to Serangoon Garden for the Serangoon Swing countdown. Tabitha and Hady can sing, while the rest cannot. Jeanette Aw and Rui En really looks more pretty and thinner in person (I think the widescreen LCD TV we all had now kinda stretched them horizontally). Except for seeing the artistes in person and spectacular fireworks, I think nothing much entice me, as I hate squeezing and partying with crowds (I think I'm a 宅男).
1st January was even more slacker. I completed two movies with Qiuyan: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (Chronicles of Narnia) and The Social Network. The Social Network was particularly insightful to me, as it depicts the story behind the startup of facebook. Starting a business is really like walking on a thin line, juggling between business and relationships, and intellectual property. I think I would revisit the movie again if I'm going to have my own startup.
In the evening, my family and I went for New Year dinner. Then when I was back at night, it was youtubing all the way. Watched and enjoyed the Top Gear Middle East special, building the Trent 1000 engine by rolls royce, the world's most extreme airport, and the making of Antonov 225. What a slack way to start the year!
For the coming holiday, I have so much on hand. This includes:
1. Preparation for GRE exam
2. Writing IEEE research paper
3. Continuing with my FYP tasks
4. Preparing for next semester (timetable etc)
5. Starting on FYP Final Report draft
6. Choosing IO company
OMG so many things on hand man. better get started soon...

October-December 2010

2008-11-27T19:53:00.001-08:00

31st December 2010

Today marks the last day of Year 2010. A year of surprises, disappointments and also many 'first times'. The first half of 2010 was spent in the United States, in particular Georgia Institute of Technology at Atlanta. It was the first time I went USA, first time experience USA education, and first time living alone (totally no assistance from my family, unlike hostel, where I can still get my 'supplies' through my dad). Nursing a broken heart while trying to adapt to life there, getting lost on the highway, finishing an assignment overnight, cooking my own meals and doing my own grocery shopping, found a new love, numerous traveling fun, it was indeed a truly memorable experience. But what's important is going there with the right mix of people, who can compromise, accommodate and resolve any disputes we have, and who are still now my good friends.
There have also been many surprises, such that getting A+ for URECA when I was on the verge of SUing it as I cannot produce a working prototype. Getting many As for my modules at Georgia Tech was also a surprise, when I was on the verge of failing for one of them. Being finally approved to start on my FYP project in Year 3 Sem 1 was also one of them, when my attempt to do IO in Year 2 summer holidays was foiled. Getting recognized for my AE3002 flight mech assignment, being awarded the ISTAT scholarship, the list goes on and on.

So my New Year Resolution for 2011? Here it goes:
1. Getting A+ for my FYP URECA
2. Getting A+ for my IO
3. Graduating with First Class Honours, with the GPA score I wanted (Secret!)
4. Commercialise and market my prototype that I've done for FYP
5. Getting good score for GRE
6. Getting a PhD Scholarship and admit into one of the Ivy League School (MIT hopefully)
7. Learning two new languages (I've planned to take Korean and French)
8. Have a strong and stable relationship and reliable friends

Happy New Year Everyone!

20th December 2010

Some inspirational chinese MV：

10th November 2010

Finally some time for me to do some blogging haha!

This clip is from the Bollywood movie '3 idiots'. The movie is an inspirational comedy, and I recommend you to spend some time to watch it.

In this movie, Phunsukh Wangdu really amazes me in that he studies just because he loves gaining more knowledge and enlightenment about the world, and not for the degree (Because he knows that his degree will eventually belongs to someone else). Even so, it does not stop him from becoming the top student of his cohort.

What can I learn?
If you had spent 2 hours watching this movie, you would soon realise that there are many Chaturs (people who are nerds about books, study w/o understanding, do all out to win others, sacrificing their life just to get an A), Farhans (sacrificing their passion just to fulfil other wishes) and Rajus (live life full of fears) in our life, but not many Wangdus (someone who challenge norms, study with understanding and love what they are doing).

Challenging norms, I do have a fair share of them but limited myself so as not to get into too much trouble. In secondary school, I do not see the need to sing 'songs' for assembly if we were really loyal to our country and songs. In JC, I was reading university textbook for organic chem as the normal textbook is too boring. And in university, I was clearing modules faster than my peers in the ABP path, doing FYP in Year 3 and trying modules that seniors never did in exchange. I learnt that to be exceptional, you have to do what the average aren't doing. Which is also what makes Wangdu successful.

I've learnt that the way to do well in life is to love what you are doing, and not doing it just for the sake of getting good results and jobs and sacrificing other aspects of your life in the process. Although I very much regret my loss in direction of life when I was in Y1S1, I think it was a good learning experience to let me learn what I'm suitable for.

This movie comes at a good moment in time when I am pondering what I am supposed to do for the rest of my life. It's kinda hard to find someone to talk to, when most of my peers are more worried about their IA company than their career. But it makes me realise that I should not sacrifice money for passion, short-term gains for long-term fulfilment. Now I have a new perspective in looking at the opportunities that are available for me.

So, what have you learnt then?

July-September 2010

2008-11-27T19:52:00.004-08:00

April-June 2010

2008-11-27T19:52:00.003-08:00

T-ara: Good Person

This song is fabulous! Among all the T-ara songs, this song is my favourite, even though it doesn't have catchy tunes like Bo Peep or Go Crazy. Why so?
1. This song is sentimental and meaningful, especially to people who have a failed relationship before.
2. The song goes slow with the piano, and the piano was played beautifully.
3. I was captivated by their vocals, especially the part where they drag the last word by Ji-Ae and Eunjung.
4. There's soprano, alto, tenor, bajo in their vocals. Bravo!

Well, the sad thing is, T-ara is no longer like it used to before. It has ventured into the pop track, and both Ji-Ae and Ji-Won has left the group. I very much prefer the old T-ara. I guess this song gonna be stuck in my ipod 'top played' list for a long time.

January-March 2010

2008-11-27T19:52:00.001-08:00