Happy Happy CNY!!!!!

Well, this post marks the start of February, the month for celebration with loved ones. In 2 days time, it'll be the Lunar New Year, and not long after that, Valentines' Day!!! I'm not emphasising on Valentines' though... I'm single and AVAILABLE~~~~ (you might have figured this out on your own....)

Celebration in Central Square, JB

Anyway, I'll be traveling back to my hometown - Ipoh - in a few hours time... It has been lotsa fun studying and celebrating the Lunar New Year here with the international students and my friends here in NUS through collaborating with Office of Student Affairs to organise "One New Year - Made in Asia", but this is the time for reuniting with family members... And I don't wish to break this tradition!!!

MSL VP - Keith Ma aka 馬少...

... and his goldfishes~~~

Goat/Ram - My chinese Zodiac.. I wrote this on my own~~~

I can just imagine this Lunar New Year to be the same as it used to be.... Visitations, cookies (a variety of them!!!!!), Mandarin oranges, big meals, Ba Gua (Dried BBQ Meat), mahjong, poker cards (does not imply gambling!!!!)... Ah... All the good times!!!! Maybe there'll be some studying this time, but who cares!!! As long I'll have fun~~~~

Hmmm.... Did I miss out anything??? Oh ya... WISHES!!!!!

This is actually a painting created by glue, chalk powder and white paint upside down during the event in NUS by our Malaysian student performers

Wishing everyone 

A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS 

LUNAR NEW YEAR!!!!!

恭祝大家辛卯年

“兔”飛猛進

“兔”氣揚眉

“兔”如一夜春風來

Thanks Sally for writing my name~~~

Of NUS Year 1 Sem 1: Academia

When it comes to NUS, its academic standard is what most people fear, or to those who like challenges (like me), embrace. I was so flabbergasted both when I'm offered a scholarship to read Pharmacy (My first pick) and not being offered the same course in Malaysia, despite being one of the top students in Malaysia. Anyway, I've chosen this route that lead me to this foreign land and I'm proud to say that I LOVE IT!!!!

Dreams

Speaking about academia, there will be expectations - from oneself, from family, from friends. One of my aims that I set before I came to NUS, as I could recall, was to graduate with First Class Honours. Even though I have been advised by my seniors here not to put on high hopes as the environment here in NUS is very competitive, I've still decided strive for the highest. To me, I feel that it's not worth all my effort (and my parents money) if I couldn't achieve that.

However, with my current CAP of 3.9 (over 5.0), my dream is pretty much far-fetched!!! Whether I could succeed in achieving my dream by the time I graduate is still an unknown. But, I do believe the low CAP was due to the fact that I'm adapting to the new and stressful environment here. I have a history of slow adaptation back in Secondary School and Form Six. Hopefully after going through Sem 1, hopefully I'll do better in Sem 2.

Expectations

As I said before, there will be expectations from people around you as well. Being labeled as one of the top students in Malaysia, a scholar and a Pharmacy Undergraduate, it simply means higher expectations on me. People look onto me as if I'm some genius of some sort.... That what I achieved was not what any mortal could... But to me, I'm just a simple human and everyone else... 

A question and a statement statement stroke me quite hard early in Sem 2 (sorry I have to incorporate Sem 2, but it's connected):

1) As I revealed my CAP to Jason Kong (Business Year 2 senior, very nice person), he told me that he expected me to get more than that, around 4.3. 

2) In another occasion, as someone revealed that I am a scholar, Jin (Chemical Engineering Year 1 friend, hard-to-describe personality) asked me what made me different from him and entitled me for a scholarship.

Sometimes, it's pretty hard to keep up with expectations, especially when there are tonnes of them from others. To meet every single one of the expectations may be impossible, and it'll be a very intense and tiring process. But all that I could do is to give in my all, then pray that all my effort is enough in return for what I deserve, and not regret any of it. 

Mark 11:24 

You can pray for anything, 

and if you believe you've received it, 

it will be yours.

Realisation

Well... This would probably be the first post that has nothing to do with my experience from last sem... And would also be the first thing I post on about this sem..

It was a great day to kickstart the ACTUAL beginning of the semester by having a field trip of our own (MSL) to MatRitchie, for KAYAKING (and for some, jungle trekking)!!!! Tutorial and lab sessions will start to take place from tomorrow onwards, and for those studying in NUS, you know how a LIVING HELL it can turn out to be!!!!

MacRitchie Reservoir Park is like the total opposite of NUS, or Singapore in general. You can never imagine such tranquility to exist in such a city of stone and steel. My first impression there, HOME!!!! Blue sky, calm waters, gentle winds... Everything adds up to an overwhelming feeling of belonging. Though the bus ride there was kinda long, it was all worthwhile to actually (and finally) escape from the fast moving pace in NUS!!!

Damn N-A-I-C-E!!!!

It was my first time kayaking (don't remind me of the incident back in Sec 1), and it was none other than fun. PURE FUN!!! Although I did get splashed a lot by the others for my lack of defense and of course offense to fight back, I wasn't the least happy to get wet. Perhaps what the others say was true. "Getting wet is part of KAYAKING!!!"

Lunch at Carl's Jr. (VivoCity) was another satisfaction of the day. The burger was worth every cent I paid for it... Not forgetting the best fries that I've ever had, and free-flow drinks!! The entire set actually suppressed my sense of hunger until now!!!!!

 ***

So far for my day out... It was full of fun and laughter... But nothing is as perfect as it seems... Someone actually told me this today... "You don't have a market, what gives you the right to say whether someone is beautiful or not?"

I know it's absurd... But, I did take this statement quite hard... Reason?? Perhaps self-conscience?? Or maybe it came from an important individual??? I don't really know... I wasn't pissed off that I was regarded as someone which others are not fond of, because I know that very well... I'm not tall, slim, fit, hunky, intelligent, smart, or what-so-ever a prince charming would look like... Neither am I sad for being single for the last 20 years of my life, as not all are blessed by the gift of marriage (or not being single in this case)...

I took it hard, because I realised that I've been teasing some of my friends since last sem.. I don't really know whether did they take those words that I've told them as light as I did.. Although they did seem to be the right things to say in those moments, and they did bring an abundance of laughter into the conversation, it all felt so wrong now... Maybe finally, I was able to feel what it would be like to be teased... IN PERSON!!!

Having said this, I'm not sure of whether to change or not... A less talkative me would sure make my presence less felt, but once I start talking, I will just be out of control.... Suddenly, everything feels like back in kindergarten: If I talk, I'll get taped on my mouth, if I don't, it's just not me anymore....

Of NUS Year 1 Sem 1: An Overview

As promised, I'm gonna post an overview of my first semester in NUS. It's kinda hard to put everything into one post, since so much have happened. Many aspects of my life have changed - academics, co-curricular activities, relationships, ME, just to name a few. I'll break everything up and spill them bit by bit so that you readers get a better view on my life.

As a whole, though, life in NUS Year 1 Sem 1, for me, is an enlightenment - a wake-up call!!! Why?? Basically, I took everything with ease. I tried to ignore the high expectations from seniors and fellow coursemates... I tried not to stress myself too much... I tried to be as involved in co-curricular activities as I possibly could... I tried to help others as much as my personal capabilities could cater to.. I tried to do everything MY WAY!!!

But, at one point, I broke!!! I simply couldn't stand the pressure!!! I felt that what I'm striving for will never be achievable!!! I have sacrificed so much, just to reach the point of no return!!! I felt utterly helpless!! I broke out in tears, isolated myself from the outside world for the entire night, trying to figure things out, by myself.

"Was it worth it?? Being so far apart from my family and friends back home which I have grew so fond of?? I could have chosen to read Medic in Malaysia, become a doctor, surgeon or a professor. Why did I get myself into deep shit???!!! What was that that had driven me to choose this path???"

ME!!! It was my determination that had me going all this while.... The determination to strive for excellence.. The determination to challenge myself.. The determination to achieve whatever goal I set.. The determination to do everything my way... The determination to not regret any path that I've chosen on my own!!!

And knowing that changed everything once again. Since that day, I've decided to use Year 1 Sem 1 to set a baseline for the next 7 sems, knowing that each sem I'll put in more effort just to be better!!! Well, being average isn't such a bad thing at all right??? At least I know that I have plenty of space for improvements in the future...

I hope I didn't bore all of you~~~ Anyway, next to come: "OF NUS YEAR 1 SEM 1: ACADEMIA"... Most probably the main thing to talk about in NUS life....

A Fresh Start - A New Beginning

It's been a while since I've last blogged, and to be honest, I kinda miss blogging for a while back then. I miss being able to write all my feelings out without being confronted by anyone in person. Maybe I'm just those timid guys that are not verbally expressive and hard to find a sense of belonging in any social circle.

Unfortunately, I couldn't commit to blogging last semester as it was crucial for me to adapt to the hectic lifestyle, both in and out of school, here in NUS. Having said so, I've pretty settled here in NUS, so comfortable that I feel a slight sense of reluctance to leave NUS for home back in Malaysia. 

Anyhow, it's a good thing that since I'm pretty much comfortable here, maybe I could resume my habit of blogging. Furthermore, with a less hectic timetable this sem (due to the fact that I cram everything on Mondays and Thursdays), I could probably make time for blogging after all. It's gonna be a long sem ahead!!

Yup!! This is how my Sem 2 timetable looks like (without choir practice!!!)...

So much for the long explanation, but I won't be blogging much today though since I have Terrible Thursday (T.T) tomorrow. This Friday, though, marks the beginning of a long series of my Year 1 Sem 1 life in NUS. Stay tuned for "Of NUS Year 1 Sem 1: An Overview".

But as for now, it's time for me to get rested and recharged... 

みんなおやすみなさい 。。。(Good night, everyone...)

~ Counter Reset ~

A Brand New Start For

Berserker Deep Down
^^

Stay Tuned For Updates

I Promise
w(^o^)

[95] Singapore Part 1

I seemed to have distanced myself from blogging since I reached Singapore. It's not because I'm uninterested in blogging anymore, it's mainly due to the fact that there is too much to say, and too little time - and energy - to say it. Anyway, I'm already here. So, all of you out there, STOP WHINING!!! *lol*

My 3-week-experience in Singapore, or rather National University of Singapore, so far was not one that I could describe in words, because my English vocabulary SUCKS!!! But, I'll try my best not to bore everyone out by repeating the same adjectives for everything I did.

Unlike most of the other Malaysians I met in Singapore, I was not alone in the long and tiring 8-hours-trip down south to Singapore, alongside with me was 20 other creme de la creme Ipohians. But, what I had in common with them was, it was our first few times (as in first and second time) in Singapore. 

Miniature NUS buildings

New to the place, environment and society of Singapore, we joined the Undergraduate Freshmen Orientation (UFO) by the Malaysian Student League (MSL). MSL, also can be said as Malaysia So Lame, has certainly been a home away from home, as I managed to bond well with not only the other freshmen from an array of colourful background, interest and courses, but with some of the seniors as well. 

OGL (Orientation Group Leader) - ALEX

OGL - Pek Yee

OG (Orientation Group) - Buzz Lightyear

Through the various activities held throughout UFO, I managed to fit in and settle in Singapore in minimum time. From trips to famous landmarks in Singapore, such as Sentosa Island and Marina Barrage, to organising events, for instance the Seniors Thanksgiving BBQ Party and the Bits and Bites Night, UFO is certainly fun and amazing. It's a platform for socialising with people that share the same tongue as me.

More stories to tell in the near future...

A day trip walking from Chinatown to Merlion through Clarke Quay

Evening view of Marina Bay Sands from Marina Barrage

Night view of Helix Bridge and Marina Bay Sands

"Song of the Sea" performance at Sentosa Island

 

Bits and Bitez Night organised by OSA (Office for Student Affair)

[94] Departure

Leaving so soon??

Heavy-hearted...

Mixed feelings - of sorrow, and joy

Grandma

Dad

Mom

Bro

Teachers

Friends

You will always be with me

In my heart

And in my memory

BON VOYAGE!!!

[93] I LOVE YOU!!!

Before I tell you what happened all week long, lets just warm up with a great song by Nickelback.

Caution: The video might contain obscenity, please do not load if you are totally allergic to women in bikinis.

This Afternoon - Nickelback

Oh, looking like another Bob Marley day
Hitting from the bong like a diesel train
And now we're hanging out this afternoon

We got weeds in the backyard, four feet tall
Cheech and Chong probably would have smoked them all
So, I'm on the couch this afternoon

Beer bottles laying on the kitchen floor
If we take them out back, we can buy some more
So I doubt we're going out this afternoon, oh

Better hang on if you're tagging along
'Cause we'll be doing this till six in the morning
Nothing wrong with going all night long
Time to put the brakes on, doesn't matter when you gotta

Get up and go out, me and all my friends
Drink up, fall down, we'll do it all again
Just sitting around, hanging out this afternoon

Landlord says I should buy a tent
But he can kiss my ass 'cause I paid the rent
So I doubt, he'll kick me out this afternoon

Down on the corner in a seedy bar
Jukebox cranking out the CCR
Had a few to Suzie Q this afternoon, oh

Better hang on if you're tagging along
'Cause we'll be doing this till six in the morning
Nothing wrong with going all night long
Time to put the brakes on, doesn't matter when you gotta

Get up and go out, me and all my friends
Drink up, fall down, we'll do it all again
Get up, go out, me and all my friends
Drink up, fall down, we'll do it all again, yeah
Just sitting around, hanging out this afternoon

Wear a wristwatch and alarm clock to see what time it ends
From the moment I wake up, I just love being with my friends
We barely get by, but have the best times and hope it never ends
We drink all day until we fall down, so we can do it all again

It's not a human walk, it's the human race
If we were living on the edge, taking too much space
So I'll doubt I'll figure out just what to do
But to kicking around, hanging out this afternoon, oh

Better hang on if you're tagging along
'Cause we'll be doing this till six in the morning
Nothing wrong with going all night long
Time to put the brakes on, doesn't matter when you gotta

Get up and go out, me and all my friends
Drink up and fall down, we'll do it all again, yeah
Get up and go out, me and all my friends
Drink up and fall down, we'll do it all again

Just sitting around, hanging out this afternoon
Just sitting around, hanging out this afternoon
Just sitting around, hanging out this afternoon
Just sitting around, hanging out this afternoon

Just sitting around, hanging out this afternoon
Just sitting around, hanging out this afternoon

It's basically a song about gatherings and reunions, which perfectly describes what I've been doing all week long. For those who are scratching your heads, here's an update: it's the season for university enrollment. Have a clearer picture now??

So, here's the list of gatherings that I've participated in the last week:

26 June: U6B1's gathering at Sidewalk Ice Cream Lounge, along with Pn. Chee and Miss Tan.

28 June: Met up with Wai Nyin, who will be leaving for USM, at Ipoh Parade's Sushi King and spent over RM90 on sushi!!!

29 June: Went to watch Toy Story 3 in 3D at Jusco's TGV Cinema with Yun Foong, UKM's future Medicine graduate, and poor Kok Chow, who will be "flying" to UMS. It was definitely a privilege to get to watch the pioneering 3D show in Ipoh. Then, had a 4 hour lunch-slash-chat at Jusco's McD, where Ming Sheng and Jee Bin (UPM-Veterinary Science) joined in as well.  4 hours!!!!

30 June: "Stormed" Pn. Lau's resident along with the other Sixth Form Committee Members. 

Seems like a pleasant week, right? Indeed it was!! However, I definitely had mixed feelings. Watching everyone I've spent almost 2 years with in school and after school leave, simply makes my heart sob. And I could tell that I'm not the only one having this reluctant feeling to leave.

To every relationship, there will be challenges and hardships, and friendship is nothing less. Nevertheless, distance in the eyes does always seem to be further than distance at heart. That's why I believe that this is an obstacle that all of us can endure. Just want everyone to know that, 

You've Got A Friend In Me

You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
When the road looks rough ahead
And you're miles and miles
From your nice warm bed
You just remember what your old pal said
Boy, you've got a friend in me
Yeah, you've got a friend in me

You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
If you've got troubles, I've got 'em too
There isn't anything I wouldn't do for you
We stick together and can see it through
Cause you've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me

Some other folks might be
A little bit smarter than I am
Bigger and stronger too
Maybe
But none of them will ever love you
The way I do, it's me and you
Boy, and as the years go by
Our friendship will never die
You're gonna see it's our destiny
You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me
You've got a friend in me

I LOVE YOU!!!!

[92] 母鷹小鷹

小鷹把疲憊的眼皮慢慢睜開，眼神凝視在母鷹睡覺的神態，心中不禁浮起一絲絲的傷感。小鷹從母鷹那溫暖的翅膀爬出來，把母鷹從美好的甜夢中給吵醒來了。雖然好想在夢裏多逗留一會兒，但事實畢竟還是要面對，美好的一切就像昨日的夕陽一樣短暫。

小鷹把身上的羽毛給甩干，尖利的鷹喙除了獵食之外也擔起了瘙癢的角色。小鷹把它那雙被露水沾濕了的翅膀展開，用鷹喙慢條斯理地整理那褐、黑、白色相間的羽毛。母鷹看著自立的小鷹，心裏感到一線欣慰，但心頭大石依然放不下，心知一切就從近日改變。

小鷹站在懸崖上，遙望著在無邊無際的天空中翺翔著的朋友們，無憂無慮、自由自在，好像飛往天堂似的，但東一個的、西一個的，寬廣的天空似乎也把彼此之間的感情綫給鬆綁了；低頭一望，看到的只有千丈之下的岩石地獄，恐懼頓時把脆弱的水晶勇氣給琢碎了一半。前方的路只有兩條：一、“不遠千里”，在空中雄偉地翺翔；二、“一落千丈”，被大海殘忍地吞沒。

母鷹挺著胸膛，神情驕傲地站在小鷹身後十步，一臉放鬆的樣子，可是内心是多麽憂慮。擔心的不是小鷹無法展翅高飛，而是小鷹四肢發達，卻頭腦簡單。小鷹一直都生活在母鷹舒適溫暖的懷抱中，對外面的世界有所不知。母鷹擔心的，是小鷹在弱肉強食的世界裏處處碰釘子。翅膀雖然長硬了，卻還是只乳臭未乾、有勇無謀的小鷹。

小鷹望著遙遠的天邊，心情既刺激又緊張，可是懸崖之下既是一去不回頭的葬身之地！！想到這點，小鷹的雙腳突然軟了，徘徊在腦裏也只有“去還是不去？”的疑問句。。。

即將稱大學生的朋友們，
我們現在也豈不像小鷹一樣猶豫不決、依依不捨嗎？

[91] I Just Wanna Be Happy

I'm feeling kinda upset at the moment, for some reasons which I couldn't share publicly on the net. So, I decided to blog on something I like and enjoy, something that makes me happy. It's American Idol time again!!! *Not again....* Bare with me, ok??

It has been more than a week since the finale of American Idol season 9. And with Project Runway, which is another reality show that I like, replacing it's airtime on 8TV, I figure out it would be the best time to blog on some of the best moments of American Idol season 9 from my perspective.

5th: Didi Benami performing "Terrified" during Hollywood week.

Reason: Didi stood out the most during that period. She was in a class of her own.

4th: Siobhan Magnus performing "When You Believe" during Top 7 Inspirational Song week.

Reason: Siobhan left her high shrieking voice aside and worked one of my favourite song out. Although harshly criticised by the judges during live performance, the studio version of the song was heartfelt and emotional.

3rd: Crystal Bowersox performing "People Get Ready" during the same week.

Reason: Crystal burst into tears singing this song, and if I'm not wrong, it's the first time any contestant teared out during performance. She even got complimented for that outstanding performance.

2nd: Lee Dewyze and Crystal Bowersox's "Falling Slowly" duet during Top 4 Songs From The Movies week

Reason: The song was flawlessly performed!!! It sounded so well, that I barely can forget how it was like. The live performance was like something from the radio, as quoted by one of the judges.

1st: Past Idols' "Together We Are One" in tribute to Simon Cowell's farewell

Reason: Reuniting alumni of American Idol showing the world how life-changing the show could be, even if it means getting harshly beaten up by the words of a Brit, with the perfect choice of song and the perfect outfits, this I really can't forget!!

I don't expect anyone to read the whole thing, watched all the videos, agreeing with me and eventually leaving a comment. I just want to think of happy thoughts and continue my life. I will be impervious to all the bad things that happen or happened and not letting them impinge on my daily life. They will not be my undoing, and will not thwart me from achieving my goals.

[90] Last Day of May

After the recent finale of American Idol Season 9, I became so immersed in the feeling of reunion. It was that song, THE song, which brought back so many past bittersweet memories of Form Six. Let's talk 'bout that song in a while.

Spending one and a half years in Form Six back in my school - SMJK Sam Tet - wasn't easy if not for the bonds I've made. Befriending classmates and other students from different societies and even the teachers definitely brought joyful and magnificent moments which enliven things up. I've learned a lot from those relationships, and I truthfully appreciate them, even though some of them had ended not in a way I would imagine.


As I said in my earlier post, June is a month for gatherings, the last before everyone set foot in their respective universities, be it local or overseas. Reuniting with friends and teachers, chatting about the past and predicting the future, these is what gatherings are all about - keeping ourselves updated.

Certainly, the recent USM enrollment will be a hot topic to talk about in gatherings. It was an upset for many, even I felt the disappointment myself. Many discussions were made and a lot expressed their concern on the quality of higher education here in Malaysia. Anyway, congratulations to my friends which were offered the course of their choice. For those who didn't don't be too concerned as we have a great future ahead of us. Trust me, I know we do!! We are the STARZ, right??? No darkness will be to great for our brightness to break.


Let's go back to THE SONG. If you've watched the finale, OR if you have followed my previous long posts, OR you are one of my friends in Facebook (I'm offering options here.), I think there's is no way you could get this one wrong. Delta Goodrem's "Together We Are One" is the song which I played continuously - on my computer and on the phone as well. *There are time when I sang it out loud, but I definitely need to work on my voice box.*


The title of the song is already attractive enough for me, and when I listened to it, WOW!!! The vocals were superb and flawless!!! If that was not enough, wait till you scan through the lyrics. The lyrics was heartfelt and it reminded me of all the hard times which I got through, and all the help and support I got from my friends and family. It also reminded me not to let loose on myself and keep striving hard in the future. Sounds amazing, right? And stuffs like this should be shared, right? Here you got, mates!!

 

Official Music Video

Live Performance

Here we are
Sharing our lives
We made it through
The good and bad times
And still we stand
With hope in our hearts
No matter what
We will play our part
And now we've come so far
One chance to touch a star
Go higher and higher

Find your guiding inspiration
In a place where dreams are made
With a lifetime's preparation
There's no time to be afraid
Put our differences behind us
While we shine like the sun
See what we've all become
Together we are one

Deep inside your heart and soul
You've worked so hard to reach your goal
With every step, with every breath
You gave it all till there was nothing left
Seek out the strength to win
No thoughts of giving in
Go higher and higher

Find your guiding inspiration
In a place where dreams are made
With a lifetime's preparation
There's no time to be afraid
Put our differences behind us
While we shine like the sun
See what we've all become
Together we are one

Deep inside your heart and soul
You work so hard
To reach your goal
With every step
With out regret
You gave it all
Till there was nothing left
Seek out the strength to win
No thoughts of giving in
Go higher and higher

Find your guiding inspiration
In a place where dreams are made
With a lifetime's preparation
There's no time to be afraid
Put our differences behind us
While we shine like a star
See what we've all become
Together we are one

Find your guiding inspiration
In a place where dreams are made
With a lifetime's preparation
It’s no time to be afraid
Put our differences behind us
While we shine like a star
See what we've all become
Together we are one

See what we've all become
Together we are one

I was right, was I? For your information, this song was written, produced and performed live for the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia. How inspiring, right? Now you have another great thing to share with all your friends!!!

[88] REJECTED!!!

I have a crucial announcement to make.

I was REJECTED 

by Universiti Sains Malaysia.

Yup, it's as simple as this. It is simply ironic, since I was accepted into the Pharmacy course of National University of Singapore, which is a great honour and a chance of a lifetime. I do admit that I was shocked and stunned, and I thought with me being out of the picture, many of my friends would have better chances of getting in. But no... Only one got a place in Pharmacy.

Let's do some self re-evaluation: What is the main reason that I got rejected?

Possibility No. 1: I am too good for them.

They think that I have unlimited potential to expand my capabilities in better universities. If they were to accept me, it would be like trapping a lion in a cage. Call me cocky. Call me a show off. Call me sour grapes. Call me anything. I'm full of myself!!

Possibility No. 2: I failed in my interview.

I never had interview-luck before. Whenever there's an interview, I'll fail miserably. So far, I haven succeeded in any, and i do mean ANY, interviews yet!! With exception of being informally interviewed for my job, I had no chance at all against interviews.

Well, personally, I think Possibility No. 2 suits me better. I like to be humble and considerate. You see, being the TOP student, somehow, limits my chances to give advices. However, if you give me lame and destructive excuse, like some did, you'll get Possibility No. 1 from me. On your face, fellas!!!

Anyway, since I got the offer from NUS, there was no second thoughts on my head. "Just go for it!!!" I was lucky enough to get that offer others always dream about, and I wasn't going to waste it. Yup, LUCKY me!!! Why? I actually limited my application to NUS and local government universities for Pharmacy only. A lot of people was like "What? With your results you could easily get offers from local private and Hong Kong universities and colleges. You could even get into the Ivy League!!" 

To be honest, my family could barely afford to fund me to Singapore, let alone to Hong Kong and England. Given my circumstances, the best that I could hope for will be NUS, the only university in Singapore which offers Pharmacy. That's why I said, I was LUCKY. 

Limiting my options has always worked for me. In a way, it made me more focused and determined to anticipate upcoming challenges from the route that I've chosen. Mdm. Chee, my Form 6 Mathematics teacher, even complimented me for being so. 

Negatively speaking, you may say that I'm obstinate and I'm taking a risk which I could not bare with the repercussions. I try not to think of it in that way though. Negative thoughts always corrupts opportunities. 

Hopefully, it'll continue to bring me good prospects in the future.

[88] The End

American Idol Season 9 officially came to a close with the a great result show night. It was like the typical result show for the past eight years - top 12 performance, top 12 girls performance, top 12 guys performance, top 2 duet, plenty of guest artists and heaps of jokes. However, Simon's departure from the show made his last show on American Idol slightly interesting. Here's are some of the highlights of the Simon-tribute-reunion American Idol Season 9 "closing ceremony':

1) Let's start with the guest artists. Most of them were unknown to me, and their song didn't attracted much of my attention. But, those that were famous simply was a crowd pleaser. Bee Gees was awesome, singing one of the greatest hits ever "How Deep Is Your Love". Christina Aguilera's entry to the show made the show slightly dramatic, but indeed a great performance. Then came Crystal's duet with Alanis Morrisette, with two of Alanis' best songs, the performance was supreme. Lee performed Chicago's medley with Chicago themselves, and they rocked the stage!! Janet Jackson, well, let's say she was not one of my favourite artist. Though her versatile outfit did stand out!!

2) Past Idols returned to the stage where they were once crowned and triumphed upon their victory. Kris Allen's performed "The Truth", one of his best song from his self-titled debut album, and believe me, he deserved that win last season. Carrie Underwood was undoubtedly spectacular, as she always is. It's not the soft-gentle-side of Carrie, but she definitely did made an impression.

3) As Randy predicted, "Pants On The Ground" became a viral hit in the states. Performing live on the show was Larry Platt and an unexpected appearance from William Hung. *We all remember him, don't we?* The hip-hop song made the crowd stand on their feet, but not with their pants on the ground, although the dancers did make a bold move, showing their yellow stripped boxers.

4) Simon Cowell was what this show is all about, and it was shown clearly in his last night in American Idol. Throughout the show, there were slots for tribute to this self-proclaimed head judge, as he leaves the show to expand his own singing competition - X Factor - to America. Video clips showing Randy, Paula, Kara, Paula and not forgetting Simon's best friend on the show, Ryan's thoughts of Simon was hilarious in a way, but they were heartfelt. Dane Cook's "Simon Said" said it all!!! He was accompanied by the All American-Idol Rejects. Yup, those that were struck by the harsh words of THE Simon Cowell. The unforeseen appearance of "the-little one" Paula Abdul, with a short speech in tribute to Simon, made the jaws of all present drop. Who would have thought to see her back in a rose-pink dress.

The best part of the tribute, and of the night, was definitely the farewell song "Together We Are One" performed by past Idols, with the exception of David Cook. Joined by other Idol alumni Matt Giraud (Season 8), David Archuleta, Jason Castro (Season 7), Blake Lewis (Season 6), Ace Young and Elliott Yamin (Season 5) just to name a few, the song showcased how dreams were achieved and lives were changed throughout the pass 8 years, and now 9, of American Idol history. It was the right song at the right moment, the perfect choice.

5) Finally, the main point of the finale, the coronation of the new American Idol. The results for the pass few years, since season 5, had always been on the side of the dark horses - Taylor Hicks instead of Katherine McPhee, Jordin Sparks instead of Blake Lewis, David Cook instead of David Archuleta, Kris Allen instead of Adam Lambert - and it was no exception this year. Lee Dewyze is now the new reigning American Idol!!! Yeah!! Crystal's 2% defeat doesn't mean that she does not deserve the title, it's just mean that the road in front of her just got a little tougher. Both singers will be great addition to the music industry.

Lee is Dewyze choice!!!

Yikes, another long post!!! I can't control myself when it comes to American Idol. Anyway, the show's over for now, but it'll sure be back for next year. *I wonder who will be replacing Simon then.* I really hope to watch it next year in Singapore, despite having to cope for the strenuous studies there.

[87] CrystaLee Finale

Disclaimer: All contents are solely based on personal perception. There is ABSOLUTELY no intention to provoke anyone.

Everyone knows I'm a BIG American Idol fan. And coming to the end of the season, I guess that I am pretty delighted to see two of my foresaw top three battle it out for the title. Didi's early exit from the show seemed to be worthy after all, as it made way for a more competitive final performance.


The finale started off with the Contestant's Choice from past performances. *Oh ya, the CONTESTANTS!!* I bet all of you already know who they are, but it doesn't hurt to mention them once again. Both are 24 years of age and auditioned in Chicago, where Shania Twain guest-judged. One is a paint shop clerk and self-produced two albums prior to the show, and the other, a musician and a mom for a lucky baby. *Imagine yourself telling your friends, "My mom was on AMERICAN IDOL!!"* I guess they need no further introduction, here you are, the top 2 finalists.

Crytal Bowersox & Lee Dewyze

Let's go back to the Round 1: the Contestant's Choice:

Lee went first, and sang "The Boxer", in which he performed in the Top 7 show - inspirational song. I remembered clearly how the song was even before he opened his mouth. Who could ever forget that la-la-la-la-chorus which sounds like a lost-in-the-lyrics moment. But, Lee manage to start the show with a BANG!!

Then came Crystal with "Me and Bobby McGee", one of the Billboard number 1 hits (Top 11 show). The song didn't hang out long in my memories, but her mike stand did. That antique mike stand, apparently, made a few appearances before the finale. *How could I miss out on that?*

Round 1 goes to .......................................... Lee Dewyze.

Reason: The song was GLUE!!! I still can't get it out my head!!!

Round 2 was the executive producer Simon Fuller's time to choose songs for the to-be-American Idols:

Lee rocked the stage with "Everybody Hurts", which was like the perfect choice of song for his coarse-rocky voice. Although not as energetic as the first song, it showed Lee's maximum potential as a rock star.

Followed closely was Crystal with a dramatic "Black Velvet", which reminded of Siobhan Magnus' performances. The dark outfit, the high heels, the loud music and the high pitched voice. Yea, definitely Siobhan!! Anyway, Crystal did a pretty fantastic job with the song.

Round 2 goes to ................................Crystal Bowersox.

Reason: Simple!!! It was better than Lee's in every way!!

Last but not least, the long awaited, looked forward Coronation Song, written by.... Wait, Kara DioGuardi didn't lend a hand this time??? *Disappointed* Such a major setback to the show, as last year's coronation song "No Boundaries" was so heartfelt.

"Beautiful Day" provided Lee with a great chance of winning it all. The song was catchy, so catchy that I almost danced along with it. My body swayed along with the sort of electronic intro and when it went to the chorus, I was energized!!! Lee had a great time too with the on-stage band, walking to the audience in his bright red sneakers before finishing it with the mike stand at the center of the stage.

But, it was Crystal which owned the night with an emotional "Up To The Mountains". She didn't do much with her body, but her vocals pierced through the hearts of all that was listening. It did sounded a little soporific, but if you listen close to the lyrics, they are magnificent!!!

The tie-breaker goes to  

.......................................................Crystal Bowersox.

Reason: She's authentic!! She's real!!

Ok, so you had it from me. Satisfied? Crystal definitely had her night of glory, but Lee wasn't bad at all!! Both will be great addition to the music industry, but I'm still rooting for Lee. *I'm a Lee-fan.* Here are both the studio version for the coronation song.

This post is already way too long!!! Next up, the review on Simon's last American Idol appearance as a judge. You won't wanna miss it.