Clovers & Roses

Woke up to a beautiful Sunday and all I wanted to do was lay in bed the whole day and sleep or just plain waste time stoning. However, I had to go shopping today since I already postponed it yesterday. Today is the only free day I have to go shop for the shoes that I need for class. I did delay getting up and getting dressed. When I finally did get dressed and ready to leave, it was already 1. 

Hailed a cab to Sunway Pyramid and the driver actually stopped me at the parking bay entrance instead of the conventional main entrance. I made my way inside and I realize that I have no idea where to begin my hunt for shoes. I guess hunting for shoes is pretty direct for some. Walk into any shoe store and just browse. In my case, I had a specific type of shoe in mind and a budget most importantly. Mum was strict on the price of the shoe and also the height of the heel. I cannot get a shoe that's too expensive or too high because it would be impractical to wear sky high heels to campus when I take the bus and I walk a lot.

As always I entered the typical few shoes stores that I knew of. And since I do not know the layout of Sunway Pyramid at the back of my hand I had to randomly walk around the whole mall just to find the shoe stores that I'm looking for. The first one was Charles & Keith but all the shoes were too high for and mostly strap-py stiletto heels. So this was off my list. Next I entered Nose and browsed. I found two but both were way out my budget range. Next came Vincci and no surprise here when I found nothing there. I gave up and went for lunch instead. 

Lunch was at Nando's. I don't even know why I chose to eat Nando's. I wasn't even craving for it. But since I was making my way there already Nando's it is. Entered and literally the noise level was insane. The place was packed and no waiter was free to show me to my seat. I just chose a seat and waited for the menu. After ordering, I stoned in my seat while eavesdropping on the conversations around me (it's bad but I had nothing to do there). I kept hearing really deep voices shouting and when I turned my head I saw why. There was a table full of black people eating there. That wasn't a problem to me. Suddenly, I heard the voices grow even louder with a harsh tone to it. I turned and I saw one black man from the table stand and started shouting at one of his friend at the table. When that happened, literally everyone in the place froze with their meals and conversation and observed them. It was a scary sight. I mean what's more scary than an angry black man? A table full of angry black men shouting at each other. Makes sense doesn't it? (DISCLAIMER: I'm not being racist here. I'm merely stating my observations and opinions. So no offense intended). Thank goodness everything cooled down and I finished lunch with my thoughts as my company. 

Next came round 2 of walking around and hunting. I called my mum and told her that the hunt was not going as well as I thought it would. I also mentioned the shoes I found and the prices of the respective shoes. Needless to say, my mum wasn't too happy because most of the shoes were pretty pricey. Eventually she said since I have no choice, just buy one that's not too expensive and is not too high. I spent hours walking and trying on shoe after shoe hoping that one will be perfect. But that was almost impossible. In the end, I end up deciding on a pair of black pumps from Nose. 

Price of this pair of shoes: RM 89.90

It is actually out of my budget but since I have no other option I had to buy it :( Now I am wondering if I should tell my mum the actual price or tell her it's cheaper. She might be angry that I bought this shoe when it's at this price. I hope she doesn't though.

As always when I am at malls I go window shopping and the SALE word always catches my eye. While I was walking at random I saw 50% on the second piece at La Senza. Walking inside i saw an even better offer. RM 120 for 7 PIECES OF UNDERWEAR. Doing the math, each piece will cost around RM 10+ which is really cheap compared to their actual prices. I was dying to start picking them out but I restrained myself because I can't spend all my allowance on this one shopping trip. I looked and left after awhile hoping that this offer lasts longer so I can come back and purchase those gorgeous looking undies. I know it's silly. What does gorgeous undies got to do anyway? It's just undies. But it is actually really comfortable to wear and since undies are dead essential so it is pretty important :D

Next was Cotton On. I saw the SALE word and the Two-Pieces-For-The-Price-Of-One sign and again I am lured in. Browsed through the racks of clothes and tried three different dress. All looks really nice but again I restrained from buying it. While walking out I saw a cardigan-like top which costs RM 30 for 2 pieces. I grabbed the black colored top and tried it. I loved it so I picked another color called Wine Tasting which is this really nice purplish plum like color. I made the purchase and while I was waiting at the counter I saw some bracelets in a bowl and again I started browsing. I found these really cute bracelets that can also double as a hair tie. Cool or what? :D I wanted to buy so many because they all looked so nice but I forced myself to pick the two that I like the most and that was all I will buy. I have to have discipline if I want to shop :)

So all that concludes my shopping sort of spree for this weekend :) Overall I have to say I did really well. I didn't impulsively buy that many things. And I actually had the discipline to walk away from some stuff that I really wanted. Except for those from Cotton On. Those were really a bargain so I couldn't resist that :D Oh another plus point, I didn't exactly get lost in Sunway Pyramid so YAYY ME! :)

First day of class tomorrow

Nervous and not sure what to expect

This is going to be intense I think

Oh and class is at 8 tomorrow

Just great

NOT

This weekend I decided to stay back in Subang. Initially I wanted to go home because I've already spent two weeks straight here since I moved in. Sadly I couldn't go home because of the Poslaju debacle that I had. 

I placed an order for a nail polish (more details later) last week and the shipment took approximately 2 business days to reach. The first time the Poslaju people tried to deliver the package to me I was not at home so they left me a note. I called them to arrange a second delivery and they told me that the next available delivery day is Wednesday. I explained that I have class and Wednesday will not work for me. They told me that they will arrange for a delivery on Saturday instead. Since that was the most convenient day I agreed and cancelled my plans to go home. 

I had today planned out initially. I would wake up early and wait for the Poslaju people to arrive with my package and after collecting it I will then head out to shop for the shoes that I need. But as always my plans didn't work out. I woke up at 8 something and asked the maid cleaning the house to collect any mail for me if there was any that arrived today. I went back into my room and fell asleep. Awhile later, my phone rang and this lady from Poslaju tells me that they are unable to deliver my package to me today. She said that she will have to deliver it next week instead. I told her that I have classes and it's impossible for me to be around on weekdays. She had the nerve to suggest that I send it to my university. Why in the world would I do that? I told her directly that this is my house and that sending it to university would just complicate things. She said she'll "try" to deliver it by today and will inform me about the arrangements. 

I waited for her call to confirm the delivery for several hours. Finally I couldn't wait any longer I called them and told them that I want them to deliver my package today itself. I told them that next week is not an option because I have class. I told the guy on the line that the lady who told me she will arrange the delivery never called me back. He apologized and said he will pass on my message to the Poslaju people. Thank goodness he was so kind and understanding of my situation :) 

I waited for several hours again and by afternoon I was walking out of my room every now and then just to check if there was any delivery person. Heaven forbid I miss this second delivery and I have to arrange for a third or worse, collect it myself. After a few times of checking, finally I spotted the orange and white van that was parked outside the gates. I immediately rushed out to the van without even bothering about slippers. The moment he handed me the clipboard to sign I was jumping with glee on the inside. Finally my purchase is here! :D

Now for the details of what I bought. I bought a nail color by OPI's Vintage Minnie Mouse Collection. This is the collection I'm talking about: 

The collection is definitely a very pink and girlish collection. I bought only one color out of the four. Technically this color that I bought was more of a glittery top coat than a solid color by itself. I bought Nothin' Mousie Bout It which looks something like this: 

What I love the most about this color is the uniqueness of the glitter pieces. Most of the glitter polishes that I find have typical shaped glitter pieces like round or rectangular or square or random shapes and sizes. But not this one. This polish comes in HEARTSHAPED GLITTER PIECES ♥ And the fact that the polish has fine pink and silvery glitter in it as well. I've always loved OPI polishes because they have a certain standard and quality to their polishes. It applies really well and it lasts longer than regular polishes too :) 

Of course the first thing I did when I got it was take pictures of the package. I am quite a photo taking addict I admit :D

I was supposed to head to the mall to shop for my shoes but believe it or not I actually changed my mind and decided to go tomorrow instead. All because I wanted to break into my new polish by doing a swatch on it. I still cannot believe I chose this over shopping but I have no regrets whatsoever :)

I'm super happy with my choice of nail color. I don't know what others will think but I know that it is superb! :D I've decided to reward myself with a purchase of one bottle of polish with the condition I manage to save my allowance. So every end of the month I will purchase one new bottle of polish :) The feeling of rewarding one's self is beyond words can explain. 

On another note, my bangs are growing out really fast. Which is a huge surprise to me since my hair growth rate is generally very very slow. I feel like my hair has grown quite a lot after only 2 weeks of getting my haircut. Maybe it's because of the current shampoo I'm using which is Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship :) I still prefer the Hello Hydration range though. The scent of the hydration range is AH-MAY-ZINGGG! And it really makes your hair feel soft and smooth. I might change back to that range after finishing this bottle :D

Shopping trip tomorrow!

I hope I can find a decent pair of shoes

I have spent quite a lot this two weeks here

Worse part is I have no clue how I spent so much

Damn I suck at managing finances

Thank goodness I'm not an accountant or something in the finance field

The last day of orientation, thank goodness it's finally over! After this past week, I am definitely in a desperate need of a break. Although this week was just the orientation week, it was intense. We were given so much to process and absorb within a short span of 5 days. In all honesty, I can only somewhat vaguely remember some parts of certain talks. I suppose it's due to the selective hearing which I tend to do on reflex. I filter what's necessary to listen and remember while forgetting those that aren't necessary. I admit that sometimes I end up remembering the wrong details or missing out some key information. I suppose I should stop this habit of mine since reading pharmacy requires me to memorize and know the details of everything and anything. (No pressure at all there-NOT)

Since today was the last day of orientation, I honestly wanted to skip today and just rest and recharge at home. However, with the briefing of industrial and community attachments scheduled today I forced myself to head to campus with my completely zombie looking face. I literally had horrible dark circles under my eyes as well is wrinkles and eye bags. No amount of concealer and smudging or blending can hide those horrid looking eyes of mine. 

What made things worse was the weather. It was wet today. It rained early in the morning and I geniusly decided to wear my long cream colored denim pants today. My pants was ruined even before I reached the bus stop. That was just the beginning of the bad things that happened today. 

When the bus arrived, I expected it to be empty or slightly filled like how it usually is when I take the 7.30 bus to campus. But no, today it was filled to the maximum. I had to stand when I went in the bus. and since it was pretty cramped in the bus I had to try my best not to slam into someone when the bus brakes or Heaven forbid fall onto someone's lap in the seats. That would be God awful embarrassing. I was pretty annoyed at the fact that the dumb bus driver kept picking up students when the bus is already overloaded with students and there practically no where left to stand. Thankfully, the bus ride was pretty short. 

The first talk today was on our industrial attachment and to be honest, this was the field that I was interested in apart from the typical community/clinical pharmacy. So my ears and eyes perked up when the lecturer was speaking and I was pretty excited with the prospects of going for attachments at several major pharmaceutical companies in this country. However, I have quite a long way before having attachments. It is usually done during our Year 3 or Year 4. 

The next few talks were more of a same thing, building our soft skills and trying to make us a whole rounded graduate with extra attributes besides holding a paper certificate. I admit and realize that this things are important but throughout the whole week we've been listening to almost the same talks just under different departments or titles. Over time, these talks get pretty redundant and we lose our interest in listening to it. But I tried my best to absorb whatever I can from each talk. Although some talks I completely zone out and completely do not know what they are talking about. 

During our lunch break, I decided to get my monthly bus pass. When I walked to the bus stop, there was no one around. So clearly I can't make any purchase. And supposedly the purchase of these bus pass is only until 2 and it was already 12 plus. We decide to head back to the lecture theater while waiting for time. I thought since we are free I can head up to the Division Office to submit the student acceptance slip. I went to get my form and as I was walking out, disaster struck. My next bad thing today: 

MY BAG STRAP BROKE

How coincidentally unfortunate can I be in one day? First the bus was full and now my bag? I literally felt so annoyed. I was already sleep deprived and I have this kind of things happening in my day. Left with no choice, I had to leave my bag in the lecture theater and took my purse with me. We headed to the stationery store that was at The Boardwalk and I bought a tube of super glue. Yes, I was that desperate. 

Remember me saying I was sleep deprived, I have proof how dysfunctional and hopeless I can be when I am sleep deprived. At the stationery store, I took the tube of super glue to the counter and brought it to the counter to pay for it. After paying for it, I turned to look for Jee Nie and Wei Li. I walked over to them and we started talking about the stationery sold there. Next thing I knew we walked out of the store and decided to go to Student Central and sit there because of the comfy couches that they have there. Wei Li like me was sleep deprived too and wanted to sleep there. We spent a good thirty minutes or more there and then left for the bus stop to buy my bus pass. 

While walking back to the lecture theater, I realized that I didn't have my tube of super glue with me. Genius right? And that's not even the best part. I totally forgot where I had it last. See what happens when I am sleep deprived? I quickly backtracked and split with them. I went to check at the store whereas the both of them checked at Student Central. 

Arriving at the store, I started to tell the uncle about the super glue but he beat me to it. All he said was, "You came and bought the super glue earlier and left it on the counter right?" "I wanted to call you but when I looked for you you already left". All I could do was laugh and say yeah like a complete fool and thank the uncle for everything. I was so embarrassed with my carelessness. It was like the old uncle has an even better memory than I did! He actually recognized me the moment I walked into his store. I fail as a younger generation :(

Back at the lecture theater I fixed my bag situation and I swore never ever to buy a Vinnci bag ever again. This bag is brand new. I haven't used it for even a month and the strap already gave way. Lousy as crap this brand. Malaysian made goods. I made a mental note to buy bags from more reliable places like Charles & Keith next time. Price range is around the same too! :)

Next talk was about community attachment. This I obviously paid attention to and also since Ms. Wong (the lecturer speaking) was also my lecturer for PH6122, she decided to announce the important things regarding her workshop starting next week. She is the first lecturer to give us some heads up for what to do for her session next week! So DOUBLE two thumbs up for that :) The rest of our sessions were more of a go and be prepared for anything and everything kind of situation because we have no idea what will be going on in those lectures. 

One of the announcements that Ms. Wong made was about the dress code for the attachment. As pharmacy students of Taylor's University, we have to dress and abide by the code of conduct as pharmacists-to-be. That line has been drilled into our head ever since Day 1 by our very own Dean, Prof. Dr. Salmiah. So for our workshop with Ms. Wong she specified that we were to dress formally at all sessions. This means crisp button down shirts paired with slacks or knee length pencil skirts or any formal skirts as well as appropriate shoes. And by appropriate it means NO SLIPPERS, SPORTSHOES/TRAINERS, SANDALS OR FLATS. 

I was in trouble. I didn't bring any formal shoes up with me because my mum was against me wearing heels around campus which I have no idea why. So now I have no appropriate shoes with me and class starts next week. On the bright side, it gave me an excuse to shop. Since my mum said no to me bringing shoes up to KL she gave me the green light to buy shoes. This means I will spend this weekend SHOPPING!! :D Finding a perfect pair of formal shoes that won't break my budget. First stop will be Empire or Sunway Pyramid. If nothing turns up there then there's always Midvalley. And if that still doesn't work there's 1U or Pavilion :) 

One good thing about today was I actually managed to troll someone today :D This guy came into our orientation and sat at the row behind me and introduced himself as a first year pharmacy student to a girl. I turned and look at him and said "are you sure?". He seemed taken aback by what I said. Thing was, I actually know who he is exactly. We met before once and I remembered who he is. He tried to insist that he is a first year student and I said I don't believe him. When he asked why I answered because I know who you are. He panicked and tried very hard to remember who am I but it took him awhile to put two and two together. He only got the connection when I he asked if I knew a certain someone and if I was from Malacca. I answered yes and he found the connection immediately. I am pretty sure he will do some digging over the weekend with that certain someone to figure out who am I :D And I am pretty sure both of them can't even remember when and how I met him. 

Having doubts about cheer practice this Tuesday

The videos and pictures I saw  INTIMIDATE me

They are all so good

I'm barely even at their level

What if they don't think I can make the cut?

That will be so embarrassing

Oh God, should I go now or not?

Second last day of orientation and I am so glad it's finally coming to an end soon. This orientation has been the most tiring and intense orientation I've ever attended. In the span of four days, I've listened to so many talks that my head feels like it's going to burst with this much information. Especially since most of the things that the talk was about are pretty new to me. In fact after yesterday's tiring TuPSS games, I had three quarters of my mind to just skip today's orientation but I dragged myself off my bed. I told myself that there's a reason or all these talks and briefings. They are organized to help me and give me the information I will need one day in this 4 years and maybe even in my life. I need and will go regardless of how tired I was.

I made it to campus and the first thing I did was check my itinerary. I had several important talks, one being from the deputy dean on examinations, another on the new teaching and learning system called MOODLE or TIMES. 

For the examinations briefing, everyone was all ears as things like grading system, continuous assessments and exams are mentioned. All of us, like the kiasu nerds that most of us are, had to know what the grading scale is, what the passing mark is, what penalties will be given when assignments are handed in late, what reasons are valid for extension, what reasons are valid if we miss an exam, etc. Things like that were crucial obviously. On the whole, for Year 1 & 2, our passing mark is 40% for each module and we have to pass all modules with a grade C to be considered a pass. Resits for any exam is applicable only if the student obtains a D for the first attempt. If the first attempt is a F, no resitting of the exam is allowed. The student will have to resit the entire module AGAIN. Oh and we have to fulfill a certain amount of credit hours in order to progress into the next year. We have to complete 120 credit hours. Year 3 & 4, the passing mark is 50% and also a grade C. In order to graduate at the end of this course, our cGPA must be at least 2.0. At the moment I can remember those and I am panicking on how to meet all these requirements.

Oh and also the fact that everyone I know who had assignments keeps telling me that they have insufficient time to complete their assignments so I am really worried. I am so worried that I will struggle with time management when I hear that. I keep telling myself that as long as I don't procrastinate when I get my assignments, I will have no problem with the time given. But still, listening to the stories of people pulling all nighters just to finish their assignments makes me nervous.

Next important talk was about MOODLE or TIMES. I seem to think that both of these are just the same now. Previously, Taylor's learning management system or LMS in shorthand was known as Blackboard 7 or BB7. It functioned to provide lecture notes, marks on quizzes and tests and also final grades and things related to the course. They decided to change this BB7 system in a new system called MOODLE (I don't know what it stands for) which is integrated into TIMES (Taylor's Something MOODLE e-Learning System). So now I can get everything from this MOODLE. Grades, assignments, lecture notes/slides, forums for discussions and even resources from the database. It certainly has a lot of functions so I hope this new system actually works. Besides this MOODLE thing, we also have to access the Cardiff Learning Central. Apparently because we can see the slides by the lectures there as well as obtain some very useful resources. 

After those talks we had our usual lunch break and we went to the library to activate Jee Nie's ID card for her library account. As we were walking down the steps of the library I saw a flash of black and gold uniforms and the hair on my hands stood. 

CHEERLEADERS

I couldn't believe they were there at the first floor. I was so excited to go see them and what they were doing down at their booth. I rushed there with Jee Nie and Wei Li beside me (I feel so bad for dragging them along with me) and saw the booth. I saw cheerleaders in their uniforms and I saw them do a baskettoss which is really cool since they are technically elite level or all-stars level. What caught my eye was the prettiest cheer bows ever and the cheerleader there told me that it's for sale at RM 20 per bow. I told her that I wouldn't have anywhere to ear it to. She asked if I was interested in cheer and I said yes I am. She asked if I've done cheerleading before and I definitely said yes. I also explained to her that since I was from Malacca, my cheer skills aren't exactly up to KL standards. She nicely said that it was okay and that I can attend the open cheer practice for the Taylor's cheerleading squad on Tuesdays at 5. There will be training and then the actual try outs will be in October :) She's the nicest cheerleader ever! She told me to sign up for this lucky draw contest that they have as well. GRAND PRIZE: A trip to Bali for 2!! Romantic getaway baby :D

I applied for the lucky draw after liking their Facebook page as well as following their Twitter account. I was so excited with the possibilities that now are right in front of me. I wanted so badly to be in a proper cheer uniform again. I wanted so badly to learn how to do tumbling and do proper stunts. 

I JUST WANTED TO CHEER SO MUCH. CHEER HAS BEEN SUCH A HUGE PART OF MY LIFE. SO MUCH THAT CHEER IS LIKE BLOOD TO ME.

Which is insane I know but I honestly feel that way. Since I begun cheer 6 years ago, I have never ever regretted it :D Even today I am still that passionate about cheer. I just wish I was more flexible :( 

At the Cheer Aces (that's what they're called) booth, I saw two really amazingly beautiful and gorgeous and pretty and so awesome things. 

ONE: 

TWO: 

And that's not even the best part, she (the cheerleader I spoke to earlier) actually said "See you at practice!" when I turned to leave after buying those button badges :D How amazing can that be? I mean from a pro cheerleader like herself saying see me at practice on Tuesday. I was literally on cloud 100 if there was a cloud higher than cloud 9 :D

Super super excited with my cheer prospects now

My cheer dream could very well come true! :D

I just hope and pray that I can make the squad

And they will be kind to me

Cause I know my skills suck when it comes to flexibility

Oh and I hope I don't get too intimidated by them

Finally I'm halfway into this whole orientation week. Initially I thought that orientation was just a one or at most two days thing. Turns out that it was for a whole week so the fact that I am halfway through with it is good news :)

For today, it is without a doubt the longest day and the day which most students are dying to skip. Why? Because we have TuPSS ice breaking and that means games. I'll get deeper into it later. Anyway, today we also had laboratory briefing schedule first thing in the morning. Thank goodness it was scheduled only to begin at 10. I could sleep in and relax as I got ready to had to campus. I arrived with an hour to spare and I sat in the same lecture theater which was Lecture Theater 12. I was listening to music on my iPod and stoning there for a good 30 minutes before realizing that I am still the only one in the lecture theater. A lady in pink appeared and asked me who am I and where am I from. I told her about the orientation and she said that the orientation was not there because there is another event going on. I was shocked and quickly checked my itinerary. I nearly wanted to kick myself when I read that today's orientation was moved to Lecture Theater 6. Scrambling, I apologized to the lady and immediately left for the right lecture theater. 

Reaching there I waited outside and I heard someone call my name. Turning I saw an ex-classmate from high school and we exchanged hellos and catch up a little. Then the topic of where are we both staying at the moment came up. I explained that I was staying in SS15 and I take the bus to uni everyday. I found out that she stays there as well and after more conversing on this topic, I found out even more surprising news. She took over my super close friend's room. Coincidence or what? :D 

Attended the lab briefing which was rather extensive seeing as there were 25 labs in the uni and we will be dealing with lots of practical work. After the long briefing, we had to take a LABORATORY SKILLS TEST. Yes I kid you not. There was a test on lab skills. What's more, there is a PASSING MARK. We have to get at least 80% in order to pass. Fail and you will have to resit this test. Fail continuously and you have to undergo the lab briefing once more. They really do take lab skills to a whole new level of seriousness.

After an hour of lunch, we had to convene at Lecture Theater 2 for the TuPSS briefing as well as MyPSA briefing. We had no clue what is what but we went anyway. First up was MyPSA (Malaysian Pharmacy Student Association). This is basically a student oriented society which aims to represent all the pharmacy students be it from public or private universities at an international level. I have to admit it is pretty cool to be in an internationally recognized student body specifically for pharmacy students. And the fact that there are many interesting events that are held overseas which we as members have the chance of going. I was especially interested in the SEP (Student Exchange Program) and APPS (Asia Pacific Pharmacy Symposium). The only issue is we need to pay for the cost of going to whichever country the event is held. I'm dying to go to USA for a SEP but money wise I can't go :( Oh and one more uber cool thing with being a member of MyPSA is we get to be a member of IPSF (International Pharmaceutical Student Federation) which is where the SEP is under. So I'm definitely going to join this MyPSA.

Next was TuPSS (Taylor's University Pharmacy Student Society). This was a society we are members by default obviously. What this society is all about is just a society to represent us pharmacy students in Taylor's. Previous intakes were pretty small with only 4 from the first batch remaining here in Taylor's. Since we are the biggest intake by far, we are needed in order to have this society. In fact, our president said that TuPSS was only officially a society 4 MONTHS ago. Probably it was because they couldn't fulfill the required number of members in a society. Oh and we aim to show the Taylor's student community that there's a Pharmacy faculty here as well as we pharmacy students are not just nerdy students. 

When the briefing ended, we were all directed to the somewhat nearby basketball court/footsal court. We had to go for the games and have ice breaking sessions. The typical thing societies organize when they recruit new members. Introductions made in games, testing our teamwork skills and basically have fun. I wasn't really into this whole thing but at the end of the day, I actually had a really good time with the games. Although the bizarre drink game was the worse of all. We had to randomly pick a small piece of paper which has an alphabet written on it. That alphabet represents which bottle our team gets. I was the first person so I drew a C. As our group facilitator was walking back with the respective bottle, I saw a dark brown liquid in it. Immediately I guessed it is soy sauce diluted in water. It was bizarre drinks after all. 

Without giving away any hint, the facilitator just said we will find out when we drink it. Poured my first cup full and I was spot on with my guess. It was indeed soy sauce water. The first cup was salty and difficult to swallow but I managed it. Oh I forgot to mention that the bottle is 1.5 LITERS. All of us had to drink it up. Every single drop. And we cannot spill any or we'll be penalized. In the end everyone in my group took a cup each and there was still quarter left in the bottle. I asked of anyone else wanted a second cup (obviously no one did) and looked over at the two guys in our team. They didn't even make a move to take the bottle so I did the only thing left to do, I poured myself a second cup and downed it. I had to take one for the team as they say. I nearly puked my guts out with that last swallow. If the first cup was already salty, the second cup was 10 times saltier. 

Although it was pretty embarrassing with some games and super fun with the others, we actually made more friends and got to know the seniors who were really funny and outgoing. They all have the outgoing spirit and I have to say that it is definitely infectious :D Overall my group a.k.a Group 2, GOT THIRD PLACE!! How awesome was that? I wasn't expecting to win anything but hey whadaya know :) My pressies like all school related events are well school related: 

Throughout this three days I've been together with the same two girls and I consider them to be my girlies in uni. These two are funny and super fun to be with and the three of us just click. Who knows, our friendship may last for a lifetime. At least I hope it does but like always, only time can tell :) 

Oh and I got my Student ID today. It is completely fugly. I look super weird with my too wide smile and the lighting was so off. And I do look like a freak with bangs :( OMG I WANNA SLAP THE PEOPLE WHO DID THE LIGHTING THERE. You can't see how horrible it actually is through this photo but trust me, the real thing is horrid. 

Orientation days are growing lesser

Classes are around the corner

I am a little afraid of the degree of difficulty of the course

What if I can't cope?

SHIT.FUCK.SHIT

Love love love always

 ♥

-xxlynnalurve

After the long (and occasionally boring) Day 1 of Orientation Week, I was so relieved for today. This is because today's schedule is the most relaxed and least packed of all the five days :) All we had arranged for today was two talks by two different departments, a tour of the library and finally PHOTO TAKING FOR STUDENT ID CARDS.

We were asked to arrive today before 9 because the Vice Chancellor will be speaking to us briefly to welcome us into the Taylor's University School of Pharmacy family. I arrived at 8 and spent an hour literally stoning in the lecture theater. Since I am quite the avid Instagram-er,

I was literally about to fall asleep while I was absorbing the beats of Armin van Buuren's We Are Here To Make Some Noise with my eyes fixed on the ceiling when Wei Li plopped onto the seat next to me. The girl arrived 5 minutes after 9 and said that she was seating outside the lecture theater and didn't realize that I was already seated inside the lecture theater. Now all we had to do was wait for the arrival of Jee Nie. She finally arrived 10 minutes later and took a seat to my left. With all three of us present the endless stream of chatter begun among us :)

Gradually we watch the many faculty members fill in and it was announced that we have to stand when the Vice Chancellor walks in as a sign of respect. When the man of the hour arrived, he gave his somewhat motivating speech and left before the hour was even up. 

Next were talks by the SSCC (Student Staff something-something, which is basically just a medium for us students to communicate with the faculty's staff), Career Services (this talk was pretty cool since all the speakers were very charismatic and managed to make us listen to what they say instead of zoning out) and Counselling and Psychological Services (typical counselling and advice service for students). What stuck with me during Mdm. Marian's talk (she's the head counselor), was this quote that she ended her presentation with 

After that talk, we had free and easy time for 2 hours before meeting at the entrance of the library at 2 for our tour. The three of us decided to get our student accounts activated so we made our way up to the computer labs in Block D. Getting our student accounts activated was not as easy as it seems. We had three accounts in total to activate: general student account (this is for all things like class timetables, BB7, fees, exam results, etc.), student email (a special email for students eg. lastname.surname@sd.taylors.edu.my) and our library account (for looking up materials, online renewal, library stuff essentially). 

Activation for the general student account was pretty basic so that went without a glitch. When we attempted to log into our student email, everything just went wrong. All three of us couldn't log in even with the passwords that we were asked to use during the briefing yesterday. In the end, we had to walk to the ICT office and ask the person in charge to reset our passwords. That did the trick thank goodness! However, the library account was a no go for all of us so we gave up and ended up leaving. We went to The Boardwalk and I got myself a bun since I was pretty hungry. We decided to chill at Jee Nie's temporary room at Ruemz Hotel at The Boardwalk before leaving for the library tour. The hotel room was so nice! It was definitely decorated very tastefully :) But paying 80 bucks per day it is pretty much expected. Anyway, she's staying there temporarily because her room in U Residence will only be available on October 1st. 

We went for the library tour and it was more of a meh kind of tour. Nothing super fabulous or extraordinary that we didn't already expect. Next was the highlight of the day, PHOTO TAKING!! :) It was time for us to get our student ID and the first thing to do was get our pictures taken. Obviously being girls, we were particularly vain for this picture. I mean this picture will be with us for the next 4 years so obviously we would want this to be a good if not great looking photo. After all the hair arranging and practiced smiles, Wei Li and I both took our photos. I made up my mind not to sneak a peek at the lady's computer to see my photo. I wanted to see how it looked like tomorrow when we collect it. A surprise of some sort :) 

With that, Day 2 of Orientation Week ended. See what I mean by the least packed and most relaxed day out of the week? :P

So here's hoping and praying

My photo for my ID comes out great

And not like a freak with bangs

Today was the first day of my one week orientation for my Bachelor of Pharmacy course at Taylor's University. I was definitely nervous about this whole orientation thing because I'm pretty afraid that I won't make any friends while I'm here. Maybe it's because of all the negative things and the backlash that I've had with several so-called "friends" that leads me to think that I might somehow repel people. I know it's a very negative thought to have but trust me if you go through what I've gone through you'd understand why I think this way.

Anyway, I had to catch the bus to Lakeside today and I had to take the 7.30 bus there. Orientation starts at 9 but we have to be there by 8.30. I was pretty afraid I'd miss the bus but thank goodness I didn't :) Bus arrived and I boarded it thinking it was a good sign so far. Then the bus made another stop and this girl came up the bus. I was seating alone and happily bopping my head to Moves Like Jagger on the radio when she came to the seat beside mine and literally slam her as down. Oh and before that she gave me this totally bitchy look of hers. Like seriously what is her problem? It wasn't like I refuse to let you sit or something so why did you show me that face and then slam your ass down next to me. I decided to just ignore her and listen to more music as we gradually approach the campus. I had my horrid nervous stomach to calm down anyway. 

Upon arriving, I had to search for Lecture Theater 12 which was located in Block D, Level 1. With that much details given I suppose it should be an easy place to find. But I worry with the amount of student there were at the place I could easily lose my way. Luckily I managed to find the lecture theater and I was EARLY! :D I sat down and had some papayas for breakfast because my stomach was doing belly flops on itself by then.

As the 9 o'clock hour approached I made my way back to the lecture theater and saw more people there. As I waited for the staff from the School of Pharmacy to get the registration counter set up, I saw a familiar face and I was so happy. I met a friend who like me used to study in UCSI except she did foundation and I did A-Levels. We both lived in the residential hostel on campus. I was on the second floor and she was the third. Plus, we were both scholarship students and we were both placed in Registrar's Office for our work hours. To meet her there was such a blessing because I felt a little left out seeing as I was the only one there alone. We went in together and made friends with a new girl also because she was alone. It ended up being the three of us sitting in the same row and talking :) 

On the more sour note, I actually saw several faces which I recognized as people who were from Malacca. One of them used to be my classmate back in high school. What shocked me was the fact that they were oblivious to me and even when I smiled at them they didn't even acknowledge it. I admit it wasn't like I was all buddy buddy with them when I was in high school but honestly a smile wouldn't hurt you know. Just for courtesy's sake. I'm not asking you to be my BFF. I just thought seeing as we technically know each other albeit not super close you could very least respond with a smile. But no. They were all high and mighty with their clique of friends. I didn't pay much thought to it after that. Just sat in my seat with my two friends and talked and had fun the whole time :D

This concludes the first day of orientation and hopefully tomorrow will be an even better day. Technically there was more to the orientation today but I'll not bore anyone with the details. Ah well :)

Tomorrow we take pictures for our ID cards!

Hopefully my snapshots doesn't end up looking like a mugshot instead

More details about orientation week tomorrow :D

The time has come for me to reveal where I am going to spend the next 4 years of my life. After the tedious process of applying for two prospective universities, I finally got an answer from one out of the two. First answer I got was from IMU. Within a week of me submitting my application, they emailed me to let me know that they have a seat for me. I wasn't thrilled or anything. I actually found it pretty odd that they had a seat for me. 

I know everyone was gushing with excitement when I told them that I had an offer from IMU. They were all "You got it? That's really good!! IMU is good. You should choose to go there. Accept their offer before it's too late!". Okay maybe not in those exact words but the context is the same. I dragged in giving them a response because I still had an interview at Taylor's on the 28th. So I left them hanging and focused on my interview. 

The interview at Taylor's

It was nerve wrecking. I mean I wasn't exactly sure how the interview will be conducted. All I did was dress according to their dress code and show up at their division office. Thank goodness I had my cousin with me that day :)
First thing they had me do was write a personal statement of minimum 400 words. It was all impromptu and I had around 2 to 3 hours tops just to work on it. I blanked out when I saw the paper. It was the worse time to have a writer's block. I was supposed to be the third candidate to be interview by the panel and I ended up being the fourth because I spent so much time trying to figure out how to write my personal statement. Lord knows a personal statement is super important when it comes to interviews.
After hastily scribbling my last line, I was brought into a discussion room where I met the panel. Three senior lectures from the School of Pharmacy will be interviewing me. Talk about intimidation. After the introductions were made, they asked me a lot of questions. Both to test the depth of my knowledge and my understanding of the pharmaceutical field. It was intense. I tried to keep the interview light (and also to prevent myself from hyperventilating and getting tongue tied) by smiling my brightest and most cheerleader-esqued smile and laughed when necessary.
Thank goodness they were pretty friendly and they could understand my points of view and the reasons I gave them when they asked why I chose Taylor's.
In the end, I PASSED!! :D
I got a spot and I had to register with Cardiff University. So I am considered a Cardiff University student for Year 1 and 2.

*****
Skipping all the unnecessary details of all the drama that unfolded after my interview, I eventually made my choice.

I AM TAYLOR'S BOUND!

I feel really excited and nervous at the same time. It's a whole new experience for me and I am praying that it will be a truly remarkable and unforgettable one. I really hope that I will be able to succeed in this course and find some true friends here. I have been through so much when it comes to friends and the last thing I need is another insincere friend.

I've also moved in to my new place in SS15. It's okay so far although the people living in this house is about as friendly as a hungry lion is to a piece of meat. Then again at least the lion has some emotional reactions when it sees the meat. They are like stones that can move. Living, breathing stones that are emotionless.

I'm definitely looking forward to orientation on Monday and classes the following week after orientation. I'm so eager to go back to classes! :)

The time has finally come for me to decide which pathway I want for my impending future. But before I get ahead of myself, I should start with the beginning.

Firstly, my results were released a few weeks back and to say that I am happy with it is completely untrue. I definitely expected more for my Biology and Chemistry. I expected at least one A or something but I got only B's for my three subjects. Disappointing but oh well, life goes on.

As disappointing as my results were, I am grateful that at least I manage to get the minimum requirements for Pharmacy. At least I still have a shot at doing the course.

Naturally, after getting results, the application process comes next. It was not much different for myself. Right after I got my results, I was busy filling up application forms and arranging time for me to go to the prospective university's campus.

The question now would be:
Where did I apply to?

It was pretty straight forward I suppose for my case. I didn't need to think about overseas and visa and whatnot. An overseas education was not written in the plan for me so I just applied for local programs. Those that offered 4 years done locally. At a reasonable price range too. I guess a part of me does wish an overseas education was part of my education plan but sometimes things just aren't meant to be. I settled with what I can have here. And I picked two universities to apply to.

#1. IMU (International Medical University)

The name of this university itself screams what kind of courses they offer. It goes without saying that IMU is one of the pioneer and renowned universities when it came to health sciences. They have practically everything you can think of when it comes to health sciences. You name it, they most probably will have it.

Like the rest of my class who are planning to study locally or twinning, IMU was the top on their list. Because everyone thinks IMU is the best university to go to when you want to be a doctor or a pharmacist or a chiropractor or a medical biotechnologist or a nutritionist or a nurse or a Chinese medicine specialist and etc. So you get my point.

Frankly speaking, I am not one of them whom puts IMU on the top of my list. I mean at first yeah it sounded pretty prestigious and all that. But after visiting the campus and thinking more about it I changed my perspective in regards to IMU.

 Sure people will say looks are deceiving and I cannot just judge a university's prestige based on the outlook of its' campus. But how many know that IMU selects students based on their results? Whereby those who have the strings of A's are prioritized whereas those who achieve the minimum requirements are considered last. If that is how they are selecting students then all that glory and achievements aren't exactly the work of the lecturers.

The logic is this: You select a bunch of top quality brains and what do you expect the outcome to be? Obviously they will produce the outstanding results that they do. That's because they have the brains and capabilities.

Nevertheless, I submitted my application for IMU as well as paid the RM150 processing fee. The next step was just sit my ass down and wait. Wait to see if I will be offered a place in their limited seats intake.


#2. Taylor's University

My second choice gave me even more drama and complications. Basically, the whole entire universe, or at least the one that I revolve in, has this mega unshakable impression that the Taylor's name equals a huge shitload of money when it comes to education. Yes I do agree at some certain level but for the course that I intend to do, it is cheaper than option #1. And it's not like a few hundred bucks cheaper. We're talking about a few grand cheaper.

Then there's the issue of how new the course is. Yes I know it's a risk applying to go to a university whose course doesn't even have one graduation batch but honestly these days there are so many other universities out there offering the same course without a graduating class either. I mean you are living under a rock if you didn't notice how many universities suddenly appear offering courses in health sciences. At least I am applying into a reputable university that has been there for decades. Although it is not as established in the field of Pharmacy.

Looking through the course, graduating from here I will get two certificates. One, a degree in Pharmacy awarded by Taylor's and two, a diploma in Pharmaceutical Studies awarded by Cardiff University. I'd like to think that getting two certificates and one being awarded by a university in the UK is more valuable compared to a single certificate awarded by the local university itself.

The same as option #1, I paid the processing fee/interview fee of RM200 (Yes I actually HAD an interview for this university unlike option #1). I scheduled the interview and I was good to go. Although the company I had with me at that time showed complete disapproval with me submitting my application. I mean I didn't hear the words uttered but I certainly saw the frown of disapproval and the flash of annoyance reflected in the eyes when I took charge and decided to go ahead and submit the application and pay the fee.

*****
So that was basically my application process post-results day. Nothing huge or major but still something.

And I know my family, both intermediate and extended, are in total judgmental mode right now with the choice I made. I am pretty sure they are all trying to get me to go to another university. Everyone is like psycho-ing my decision. What's worse is they are saying to my ever gullible mum. Not that I am trying to insult anyone. I'm just stating my thoughts and opinions here.