Here I am, sitting alone in my lab, at the second last day in the National Metrology Center.
The Executive Director had just treated us Lim Seng Lee duck rice for lunch, and my lab-partners went back immediately afterwards. Me? I took my time to complete the reflection forms, and among all things, contemplated my past five weeks in this institution.
I know that this place isn't the most fantastic place on earth, and some days I even loathe having to come here, but somehow I feel kinda sad leaving this place. I will miss the labyrinth feel of the place. The frigid air-conditioning. The esoteric machines that seem capable to animate and turn into Optimus Prime the moment you look away. The awkward times when I pretend to understand whatever my mentor has just explained. The stupid conversations with my research mates. The futile hope of waiting a certain whatsapp reply, checking my phone every other second..
I really learned a lot in this institution. My mentor is very nice, but unfortunately she is often on leave, so that we had little chance to get to know her better. The team of scientists are also emphasizing on getting first-hand knowledge of working experience, not only augmenting our forefront knowledge and research skills. Even though I had regrets of not being able to actually improve or enhance a technology, I learned a lot. Working skills. Attitudes. Communication. Patience. Initiative. Relationship skills. How to distinguish signal from noise (both literally and figuratively). Most importantly, life lessons.
However, I must admit, whatever I write will not do justice to what I've gained from this period of attachment. So here I am, contemplating what I could've achieved and what I'd like to do in the remaining 10 hours in this institution, while listening to this song 'Pemuja Rahasia' (Secret Admirer) by Sheila on 7. For my Indonesian readers, I know its a 2007 song, but if you listen to it, you'll appreciate the lyrics. Another song that rings true to my life, but oh well :') sometimes you have to bleed just to know that you're alive..
Anyway, thank you NMC.
Forever yours truly,
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