A Great 2009

Year 2009, so far, is the greatest year in my life. IN this year, I have the chance to study in Japan, to do internship in Tokyo for two months, to go for exchange in Shanghai CEIBS for 4 months, and finally to have a two-week holiday in Singapore to visit my old friends. A truly enriching experience... An undescribable experience.. A memorable and enjoyable experience...

During this year 2009, I learned a lot, experienced a lot, and cried a lot too! Through this year, I am molded into a more matured person. Witnessing my friends getting married one-by-one has really added so much pressure to myself. Witnessing the success of my friends in career life has motivated me to work harder. I told myself that I would catch up soon! Just wait for me! I am still heating up my engine...

Year 2010 is a year full of challenge. I only have a plan for the first half of 2010, i.e. continuing my study in Japan. I will be graduating on 25 June. After that, I leave it to God to enlighten me!

I will not give up! akiramenai! May God give me the fighting spirit over the next six months as the next six months will be my busiest time ever. I have lots of things to do:
1. Prepare for JLPT Level 2
2. Prepare for CFA Level 2
3. Thesis (till now ZERO progress)
4. MBA courses & projects
5. Library part-time
6. Apply for jobs
7... many more

Nothing is impossible with God! Through UPs and DOWNs in life, He will still be with me!

15 things in my bag

I am a guy that always carry a bag everywhere I go. It is kind of strange for a guy carrying a bag, back in my home country (Indonesia, especially my hometown Medan). Unless you are wearing a student uniform or an office worker suit, you will get a strange glance from people. Nevertheless, I can't go out without my bag. I remembered that one of my friend always asked me, "Where are you going yah? Why bring such a big bag?"... Er..

Take a peek at what is inside my bag (tote white bag from FILA as of 25 Dec @ Singapore):

1. Wallet - Braun Buffel

I normally don't put my wallet in my pants' pocket. I don't want to bend my cards!

2. Mobile Phone - Nokia 6500 slide

Sometimes I put this in my pocket if I am waiting for important calls or messages.

3. Umbrella - UNIQLO

Useful in rainy days. Sedia payung sebelum hujan!

4. Note book

I am not a gadget person. I am still using a traditional note book (yes, with papers & pen). Maybe, if I use iphone or other smartphones in future, I will dump this! In my note book, I will keep a to-do-list, important appointments, notes, etc

5. Pen - PILOT G-Tec 0.4 Black

To accompany the note book.

6. Namecard with namecard holder

You will never know when you will meet important people when you are going out.

7. ipod mini

It is now 5 years old! Time to change?

8. Nike Water bottle

Of course with water inside! I have lost this water bottle once in IUJ and twice in CEIBS. But, in the end some samaritans out there returned to me.

9. Pocket Camera - Canon IXY Digital 510 IS

Bought from Amazon JP. So much cheaper that RRP in Singapore

10. Clean & Clear Wet Facial Tissues

I have oily face. This comes very handy and useful.

11. Sambal ABC

This may sounds funny though! But, I like this Indonesian chilly sauce very much. It is the best companion for KFC or McD.

12. Deodorant Spray - Adidas

No comment here!

13. UNO Wax

To keep stylish all the time. ^_^

14. Fresh Mint

To keep bad mouth away!

15. Keys Pocket

Where I keep the house keys!

Exchange Life in Shanghai CEIBS: Aug - Dec 2009

Welcome Back To Blogspot!

It has been a long time I have never logged in and post something to my blog. I was in China Shanghai for exchange program 4 months. Blogspot is blocked there! That's why..

Anyway, now I am back to Singapore for holiday (2 weeks) before heading back to my campus life in Japan...

Oh.. how time flies! 2 months internship in Tokyo, 4 months exchange in Shanghai.. great experience, great companions! I will miss my friends in Shanghai

10 'My's I will remember during my internship days in Tokyo 20 Jun - 25 Aug

Today is my last day in Tokyo. I will be flying off to Shanghai tonight. Yesterday was my last day internship @ Tokyo American Club....

I really miss Tokyo life.. honto ni...

1. My Internship Company - Tokyo American Club
- Free and delicious lunch meal (thai curry, lasagna, fish burger, smoked turkey wrap, etc)
- Employee Recognition Day
- Bon Odori Festivals
- Farewell party @ tsuki no shizuku restaurant
- last but not least, my colleagues and bosses.

2. My Shelter - Kamata
- comfy room *studio apartment 23 sqm
- rental futon for Dimas and Jinkai

3. My Online Social Community - Facebook
- Approx. 12 hrs spent with Facebook per day in office and at home
- Created many photo albums
- Found long lost friends (from Wiyata Secondary School and Sutomo High School) e.g johanes, surtinah, shani, vivi, wenly, wiwy, betty, zulham, johan, yuswan antoni, and the rest of the cookies family..

- I heard rumour that FB and blogspot is blocked in China. If that is true, that means.... this is my last post in this blog for this year... Hix hix hix

4. My Church - IFGF GISI Tokyo
- Narimasu church - very far... 1.5 hrs by train from my apartment
- Youth KKR @ Urban Church Komagome - found many new nice Christian songs!! (I'm Yours, Sing Sing Sing, All Things New, To You, I Just Want You Jesus)
- The pastors: Ps Caleb, Ps Lusi, Ps Jo
- My church friends:
* Adit and Erwin - the angels' vocals; the worship leader
* Ferdinand - medan lank; friends of Jules and Suwandi
* Suhandy - medan lank; 'dokter'
* Yank - medan lank; I like his hairstyle leh!
* Stanford - The 'Stanny' medan lank; studied in Singapore @ ACJC before; narsis loh!!!
* Verry - 'verry' sporty guy - always arranged sports events (futsal, mt fuji climbing...)
* Yulia Wijaya - reminds me of another Yulia from IUJ (see point #10 below) .. Both have surname starting with 'W'. Wijaya and Wiantono... so coincident neh...
* Sally, Kanako-chan, Melissa - the talented pianist
* Kanako-chan, Nao-chan, Ai-chan - Japanese in Indonesian IFGF church
* Kaoru - cousin of Melissa Bomber, Charles, Margaret and Jessica.. world is small eh..?
* Happy - very japanese look-alike, esp with his long dyed hair... but Indoneshia jin da yo...
* Ing & Jhony - osan; gank jeruk; jeruk makan jeruk; penjaga tempat buat hanabi ^_^
* Kornel - jayus banget.. aka garink abisss, comment2 fbnya lucu2, bikin ngakak pas baca...
* Herry - the drummer; i think his wife looks like my cousin Debby... mirip 70%
* Miyuki - the first one who greeted me at IFGF GISI Tokyo
* Ida Saori - mixed Jap & Indo...

* Kenn - kesian dhe ama perutnya yang slalu dicubit org2 ^_^

* Daud, Heghy, Steven and many more ...

5. My Weekend Sightseeing
- Hanabi at Sumidagawa
- Hanabi at Toda Koen, Saitama
- Gundam @ Odaiba - love this a lot!!!
- Kamakura and Enoshima short trip with Dimas
- Tokyo Daigaku Komaba Campus - JLPT 2
- Kawasaki - Lazona and Citta Della
- Shinjuku - Indian Maharaja, Mexico, and Thai restaurant
- Indonesian Festival at Yoyogi Koen
- Azabu Jyuban Festival

6. My Workout Center - Konami Sports Club @ Omori
- Gym, Weight training, Sauna
- Tanning Machine
- Swimming Pool

7. My Favourite TV Programme - FIVB World Grand Prix Women's Volleyball
- My most favourite player: Cinderella Kano
- Other players: Inoue, Saori, Takeshita, Kurihara

8. My Freelance Project - E-flyer from NUS
- Human Capital Insights Forum - WaiMin
- KL Seminar - Darryl
- Career Transition Seminar - WaiMin
- Official Launch of Centre for Social Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy - Rajes
- CEO Luncheon Series - Adeline
- NUS BIZ Career Services Networking Events - Stephanie
- UCLA NUS Program Briefing 2009 - Michelle
- NUS-PKU Celebration dinner with backdrop - Darryl

9. My Movies
- Transformers 2 @ Shinjuku
- Harry Potter @ Odaiba
- Terminator @ Roppongi
- Night at Museum 2 @ Shinjuku

and... last but not least...

10. My Friends (Dinner & Lunch)
- Ricky & Jojo - thanks for visiting me in Tokyo and thanks for the bee cheng hiang yah pengantin baru!!
- Jane, Yukino, Weiyang - from Singapore

- Dimas, Arya, Jinkai - roommates in Kamata

- Yulia Wiantono - always go for movie together

- Atri, Karens, Sandy, Kustini, Manisha, Rabi-chan, Charles - IUJ Alumni

- Abishek, Rin, Ankit, Kartik, Amreen, Oscar, Josh, Devang, Alex, Gupta, Thuy: IUJ-ers MBA who interned in Tokyo

- Greg and Tatsuya - fellow classmates in CEIBS

- Kusuma Dewi and Natasya - Dimas' friends

- Karn - my neighbour in IUJ and the hardworking guy studying Japanese in Tokyo during summer...

- Andre Kasmara - Indonesian friend whom I met in CFA Society of Japan Anniversary Dinner

- Joven - one of the two Singaporeans in IUJ

- Kaoru and Margaret - Melissa Bombie's cousin

- The IFGF friends

Thank you all for making my life so memorable and enjoyable in Tokyo...

See you again soon!!!

Shanghai, I am coming... ^_^

Counting down... Last Day @ TAC

This morning, I was supposed to have phone interview at 5AM. I woke up at 4.15 AM and waited for the phone call from JNJ.

After 15 minutes have passed 5AM, I still didn't receive the call yet. I went and check the time conversion again. It was scheduled MOnday, 24 Aug 2009 4PM (Eastern Standard Time). I found out that it should be this morning 6AM. Just realized that in US there are two types of time. EST and EDT.

But, still I didn't receive any call at 6AM. Sigh.. quite disappointed... I wrote email to JNJ. I didn't have their email address. The acknowledgement email that they sent to me contains "DO NOT REPLY" email address. I sent the email through their website. Hopefully, someone there can reply me!

Ahhhh.. taihen na... I am leaving Tokyo tomorrow. Even if they return my call, they will not be able to reach me as I will be in Shanghai tomorrow. I need to buy a phone number as soon as possible in Shanghai.

Just heard the rumour that Facebook is blocked in China. OMG, how could I survive without it? God knows....

Keeping my fingers crossed...

I hope that everything turns out well.

Just received email from Kian Lin, my future flatmates in Shanghai that his friend is going to meet the landlord to sign the apartment contract and pay the deposit on behalf of us. I hope that the landlord is not backing out. Hope everything is going smoothly as planned.

Worst case - I have to find another accomodation in Shanghai...

God, help me this time!!!

Counting down... Last Weekend @ Tokyo

Sat, 22 Aug

- Go to Abishek's apartment

- Have lunch with him & Amreen nearby their apartment

- Go to Charles' apartment

- Go to Azabu Jyuban Matsuri together with him, Yulia and Thuy

- Go to SHinjuku to have dinner together with Kustini

Sun, 23 Aug

- Go to Hanamasa Ginza.. my last yakiniku tabehodai this year ... with YUlia and Karn

- Go to church

- Farewell dinner @ Denny Narimasu branch

Counting down... last Friday @ Tokyo

Whoaaa. time flies so fast.. I can't keep up with it..

Tonight, I plan to meet Margaret. She came to Japan last two weeks. She will go back tomorrow to Singapore. I knew her from Elsa. She is a cousin of Melissa Bombie. It is a whole chain of family relationship: Melissa -- Charles and Margaret -- Jessica -- Yovita -- Kaoru...

I met Kaoru in Tokyo IFGF GISI church. World is small, eh?

My weekend plan is also full:

Saturday

- Lunch with Abhishek 11AM - 2PM

- Azabu Juban 3PM - 5PM

- Dinner with the Kus family (Kustini and Kusuma Dewi) @ Shinjuku

Sunday

- Lunch with Karn and Yulia @ Hanamasa Ginza.. yipiiee.. yakiniku tabehodai... super cheap.. 1000 yen .. really worth it!

- Church after lunch...

- Dinner - not decided yet.. maybe with my church friends.

30 minutes more to lunch.. I am looking forward to lunch.. what is the menu today ya?

Counting down... last Thursday @ Tokyo

Time flies really so fast. Today is my last Thursday @ Tokyo and @ TAC.

I am going to watch "The Night at Museum" tonight at Shinjuka Wald with Yulia and Rabiah.. This is the fourth movie that I have watched in Tokyo.

1. Transformers 2
2. Harry Potter
3. Terminator
4. The Night at Museum

Movie ticket costs 1800 yen (standard) around Japan. Expensive neh... it is equivalent to around SGD 22.. i can watch 2 times in Singapore..

Will I miss Japan? That is not actually a question. YES! OF COURSE I WILL!!!

Counting down... last Wednesday @ Tokyo - Farewell Party @ TAC

Although my last day of work in TAC is next Tuesday, my colleagues and my boss will hold a farewell party tonight at a restaurant in Shinagawa.

This is the first time and the last time we had dinner and nomikai together. You may think that it is pathetic, isn't it??? No, I don't think so! That is because we had lunch everyday in the employee cafeteria... We have enough bonding already.. hehehe... just that we can't drink in the employee cafeteria...

The WORST!!!
I have seen the worst one when I worked in NUS Business School. Even for my farewell lunch, I have to pay for my own lunch and only 3 (me, riky and my boss) out of a total of 6 of us in my department joined my farewell lunch... that is the worst I have seen so far..... Users from other department invited me for farewell lunch. They even paid for my lunch... so touched!! even my boss didn't pay for my farewell lunch.. okie... enough complaining about him!!!

The BEST!!!
When I left SilkAir, I almost cried... My boss held a farewell party in the office... At that day, there are two people from SilkAir who will leave the company... Me and May. She cried!! I almost cried too, when Penny presented me with the diary written by my closest friends in the company... I was so touched!!! I really missed my time in SilkAir... really like a family!

How about today's farewell?? Let's see...

Congrats, Abishek!!!

My friend, Abishek, has just passed his CFA Level 2 exam. I am glad for him....

Glad that he doesn't need to accompany me next year for Level 2 ....

Glad that he can pass his Schweser books to me next year...

I don't need to buy the Schweser books ^_^.. so happy ne!!!!

I'm Yours - by Planet Shakers

The first time I listened to this song is when I attended the youth KKR in Urban Church Tokyo @ Komagome... I am so touched. I love this song!



I'm Yours by Planet Shakers
Oh Lord
When I think of all You've done
My heart sings of Your love
That saved my soul
And made me whole
My life is Yours

Cause You paid the price
I give You my life, I'm Yours

So no matter what the cost
I will go for You
No matter what it takes, I'm Yours
Because You paid the price at Calvary
I give You my whole life, I'm Yours

Oh Lord
My everything to You I lift
My heart and soul I live
For You alone
I'm not my own
My life is Yours

I'm Yours
Jesus I am Yours

Special Recognition plus Job Interview

Two great things in this week:

1. Special recognition letter

I was just informed by ACSC Yamada-san that I would get a special recoginition letter from IUJ since I have been placed in the Dean List for three consecutive semesters.

Who else should I thank? None other than my Lord Jesus! He is so GOOD!

Now, I can add that achievement into my resume.. ^_^

2. First job interview

Next Monday, I will be having my first job interview - phone interview with Johnson & Johnson. I couldn't find a better time since their interview time is US Eastern Time. My scheduled time is 25 August 2009 5AM Tokyo time. I hope I don't oversleep on that day...

I would really like to work in this company. I don't mind stationed in either Jakarta or Singapore. Best if I can work in the Tokyo branch... Anyway, I will leave it to God to decide. I can only try my best and count on Him for the result.

Next Wednesday, I am leaving Tokyo... Sad.. extremely sad.. I will miss my time in Tokyo... This morning, I watched my videos in Facebook, browsed my photos for the past one year.... I feel something warm in my cheek.. Yes, it is my tears!...

On the other hand, I am going to Shanghai for exchange in CEIBS for one semester.... Excited for the new environment, new friends....

But, I have faith that I am going to come back to Tokyo next year (for work, of course!!).... God, open the ways for me yah!

New Year Eve in the sky - Romantic?

Have you ever enjoyed your New Year Eve in the sky?

I am planning my December holiday. Shall I try this experience? I can book a flight from Singapore to Tokyo on 31 Dec 2009 23:45pm. The moment the flight takes off, it is the change of year....

What will I feel by then? Something different maybe? I don't know... I am looking forward to it!

Weekend 7: 15-16 Aug

15 Aug
I went to Yoyogi park to visit the INdonesian Festival there. I met Adit, Erwin, Ida and some other friends from IFGF.. I am proud to be Indonesian... love the food, culture! haiya.. why did I start to appreciate Indonesian when I arrived in Japan???

16 Aug
I went to church this afternoon. I just realized two members will be leaving Japan for good... Yank and Ferdinand! Even though I only met them several times... I am quite sad also... Both of them are somehow related to my hometown (Medan). They can speak Hokkian.. That's why I feel quite close to them... my first time speaking hokkian in Japan ^_^>.. hehehehe..

Ferdinand --> we have two common friends in Facebook, even before we became friends. Jules and Suwandi ^_^.. World is so small... He studied in the same high school as Jules. I met Jules and Suwandi in NUS. He has been working in Japan for 1 year (transferred from the company in Indonesia).

Tan Nan Yank --> No common similarities... He has worked in Japan for 6 years.. OMG, so long yah... But, I like his hair style though... I am thinking to have my hair cut before I leave for Shanghai ^_^....

We had taken many group farewell photos. Next week, it will be my turn to say goodbye to the rest!

Di mana ada pertemuan, di situ ada perpisahan... !

All the best, Yank and Ferdinand... See you in Jakarta some time soon yah....

Summer Internship @ TAC - Week 7

10 Aug
It is Week 7. Another two more weeks in Tokyo. Excited and sad. Kinda mixed feelings though.

11 Aug
I began to notice that there was a volleyball match World Grand Prix.. I am loving it!! The Japan team was indeed wonderful. Two players, Inoue and Kano. Are they really players? I wonder.. They look like models to me, rather than volleyball players.

12 Aug
Dimas told me that he won't come to Tokyo due to his project. I was angry and sad, because my plan to Hakone on Saturday will be cancelled... Anyway, I have to make other plan this Saturday. I don't want to go to Hakone alone.... not fun ... i think..

Luckily, there is an email from Ankit. He is thinking to go to Yokohama Sea Paradise. I would love to go there!

13 Aug
I recently joined a mailing list Indonesian Community in Japan. I received an email saying that there will be an INdonesian festival this Saturday and Sunday @ Yoyogi park.

Yes!! I have somewhere to go...

14 Aug
Ankit cancelled his trip to Yokohama. Never mind, I went to Yoyogi Park Indonesian Festival. First time I can appreciate Indonesian culture ^_^... Indeed beautiful dance, nice food!! I am proud to be Indonesian.

I met Adit, Erwin, Ida and some members from IFGF church there.

Weekend 6: 8-9 Aug

8 Aug
I went to Bon Odori festival @ Tokyo American Club today. Again, another nice event! Bought a Tokyo American Club T-shirt too!

9 Aug
I didn't go to church today as I have lunch appointment with Karens, Sandy and Yulia at 1pm in Shinjuku. I can't make it on time if I go to church from there.

After lunch, I went to eat COLD STONE ice cream. OMG, it is so nice!

Summer Internship @ TAC - Week 6

3 Aug
Life as per normal.

4 Aug
First time OT in office. I was asked to work overtime tonight to help them consolidate the budget for FY2010. Very routine job... BUT I love it (bcoz i can earn extra money.. hehehe.. 125% of the basic hour salary).

My boss bought me dinner from the nearest convenience center and we had simple dinner in the office.

5 Aug
This is the employee recognition day for Tokyo American Club. I attended the event. It was nice and enjoyable. The theme is Hawaiian style.

Photos can be viewed here:
http://picasaweb.google.com/william.rimbun/TACEmployeeRecognitionDay

Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwW2GDpKkK0

6 Aug
OT again today. I'm loving it!

Today's OT assignment is to help them prepare for some slides to be used in the budget presentation tomorrow.

Dinner @ office again. ^_^

7 Aug
Life as per normal.

Weekend 5: 1-2 Aug

1 Aug

Yep...!! Hanabi Day!.. In the morning, I went to have breakfast with Rin. She is leaving Tokyo for Bangkok tomorrow. Last meal with her this year!!! She will go to US for exchange program. We will not meet until next year in IUJ...


After lunch, I went to Ikebukuro to buy air ticket to Shanghai. It costed me around 39,000 yen. Aftewards, I headed to meet my care group friends in Ikebukuro. I arrived quite early at Sunshine city. Thus, I decided to have my lunch @ Mister Donut. I like this donut cafe! It reminded me of J.CO. Of course J.Co is much better...

We started our care group meeting at around 2pm @ The Seattle's Best Coffee Stall... Kinda funny name. At first, when Ai posted the message in FB, I thought it is Starbucks. But, the name is "Seattle's Best Coffee Stall".. Hehehe...

AFter having our care group meeting, we headed to Toda koen eki to watch hanabi there. Again, lots of people...^_^

Somehow, I feel quite different watching hanabi in Tokyo & watching hanabi in Singapore. There are about 2-3 fireworks in Singapore every year (31 Dec, Eve of CHinese new year, and National Day). IN Tokyo, the girls wear yukata, the guys sometime also wear yukata. You can buy Japanese traditional snacks (yakitori, takoyaki) from the street stalls (plenty of them).

My friends (Ing & Jhony) went to the venue earlier this afternoon to reserve a place. We got a good spot!!!! Finally, Hanabi time!!! 1.5 hrs of wonderful fireworks! Cool!!

I reached home at almost 12 midnight! Gosh!!! Damn tired...I didn;t go to sleep directly. I uploaded the photos that I have taken during the day and also during June & July. Lots of photos!!! I slept at around 5AM...


2 Aug
Woke up at around 11AM.. quickly made brunch and went to the church...

After church, I went to Roppongi Hills to watch Terminator with Yulia. It is kinda old movie.. has been released two months ago (I think)... but I like it!!!

Went back to my apartment and had a Skype chatting with my bro and mum..

A tiring weekend ne!!!

Summer Internship @ TAC - Week 5

27 Jul
I have been assigned a new job today, ie. to help in the preparation of the budget for 2010. Excited and thrilled on the new challenge.

ALso, I received a new assignment for e-flyer. Great!! Another extra income..

28 Jul
Life as usual...

After work, I went to Shinjuku to meet my future classmates in CEIBS (Tatsuya ang Gregory). We had western food in one of the corner in Shinjuku.

teng teng teng... I reached home at around 9.30pm, took my bath and sat in front of computer waiting to check for my CFA results (Released at 10pm). The result is....

YES!!! I passed it... brilliantly.. all 10 sections fall in the third band (>70% Above Average). Thank God!!!

Yes, He is so good!!!!This is really good news.. Finally, I passed CFA Level 1 Exam... All my hardwork finally paid through!!! All my time, all my sacrifices... all have been paid through!!! Thank You Lord!!!!!The pass rate this time is 46% and... the greatest part is that there are 10 sections in the scoring and I got >70% for all 10 sections. Really happy!! All these wouldn't have been possible without Him!!!I am really so happy! I achieved GPA 4.0 last semester (should be in the Dean List) and managed to pass this CFA Level 1. THanks to God!!!

SO HEPIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!

29 Jul
Lazy to cook dinner today. I ate out at Yoshinoya and ordered a unadon.. disappointed with the size of the meal. Totally different from the picture.

30 Jul
Life as usual...

31 Jul
I went to Kawasaki for shopping after work and bought a set of yukata with geta (around 7500 yen). It is discounted from 16,000 yen (not sure if this is the real price or they just fake it for the sake of SALE). I plan to wear it for tomorrow's Toda Koen Hanabi.. but I am not ready yet. Still dunno how to wear it. If I have time, I will search the Net. If not, I will keep the yukata for next year IUJ Open Day. Hehe.. finally I have something interesting to dress on next year...

I also bought 2 polo t-shirts and one bag.. OMG.. the white bag.. I have been looking forward for the bag. Love it!! I love WHITE.. bought from 306 in Kawasaki. I realized that there is 306 shop near Narimasu (near IFGF church) as well...

Weekend 4: 25-26 Jul

25 Jul

I went to the gym in the morning and for lunch, I went to Ueno to meet Jane & Weiyang. They came to Tokyo last Thursday. I met them for lunch @ Ameyoko Street.

IN the evening, I went to Asakusa alone to watch the fireworks display @ Sumidagawa. Too many people. They were just everywhere, sitting on the street, park, trying to find interesting spots to see the fireworks at 7pm. Many of them walked down the street in Japanese yukata... Along the streets, there are many stalls selling Japanese snacks (Takoyaki, yaki soba, yakitori, ice cream, drinks.. etc)...

The fireworks started at 7pm and ended at 8.30pm. Indeed an amazing display.

I also met Jimmo & Yuli coincidentally. They arrived in Tokyo at around 2pm. I met them in one of the bridges in ASakusa.

26 Jul

I went to the gym again this morning. Afterwards, I went to church @ Narimasu (IFGF GISI Tokyo).

After the church at around 5.30, we went to another youth session (KKR @ Komagome Urban Church). The session was conducted in Japanese. I hardly understand. But, I enjoyed the music, the youth energy, and the Holy Spirit.

Summer Internship @ TAC - Week 4

20 Jul

Today is public holiday in Japan (Marine Day, Umi no Hi). My friends (Ricky and Jojo) came from Singapore to Tokyo. They just married last week and this is their pre-honeymoon trip. I went to meet them at their Shinjuku Hilton Hotel and brought them to sight-seeing around Tokyo. First, we went to Tsukiji for real sushi and sashimi lunch, Ginza for shopping, Omote sando for another shopping, Harajuku for another shopping and finally we stopped at Shibuya for dinner.

On the way back, I met Sandy (my senpai) in the train coincidentally. ^_^ She looks thinner than when she was in IUJ. I guess she must be very tired working in Macquarie... Ganbatte ne Sandy-san! You can make it!

It was indeed a tiring day...

Anyway, thanks for the bakkwa,, Rijo ^_^

21 Jul

In the evening, we (Rin, Me, and Gupta) went to Manisha's Devi Restaurant @ Shinagawa. This is my first time visiting her restaurant.. Oishii ne.. I like Indian food!!!

22 Jul

Nothing special happens today. I continue my routine works: wake up, go to office, lunch, leave office, go to gym, reach home, cook dinner, watch TV and sleep.

But, today's lunch is superb: Smoked Turkey wrap!!! umai

23 Jul

Another usual day...

24 Jul

Another usual day...

Weekend 3: 18-19 Jul

18 Jul

I went to see the 18-metre high Gundam statue in Odaiba. http://www.greentokyo-gundam.jp/

Afterwards, we (Yulia, me, Kartik and Mitchel) went to watch Harry Potter @ Odaiba Aqua City.

After the movie, I went to visit Venus Fort, Toyota Mega Web and Pallete Town by myself. I went there before (3 years ago when I went to Japan on tour package).

I love Odaiba!! Very nice!!!

19 Jul

Today, as usual, I went to church @ Narimasu. Afterwards, I went to Kawasaki for dinner together with Rin & Dimas. Dimas just came back from Bali today and he will go back to IUJ tomorrow. We ate @ Jonathan family restaurant...

Summer Internship @ TAC - Week 3

13 Jul

I had dinner with Arya & Dimas @ Pepper Lunch near Kamata. They are going to Bali tomorrow... How nice!!! I wish I can join them for a short break...

Enjoy ne, Dimas & Arya!!! Bring back oleh-oleh to me yah

14 Jul

Another usual day...

15 Jul

Another usual day...

16 Jul

Another usual day...

17 Jul

Another usual day...

Weekend 2: 11-12 July

11 July
We went to Kamakura today. We bought the 1-day pass from Yokohama. We visited Engakuji, Hachimangu, daibutsu and made a de-tour to Enoshima. There, we can see sea & beach, people playing volley ball, surfing and sun-tanning.

On the way back, we stopped at Kawasaki for dinner. I went to the gym afterwards.

12 July
In the afternoon, I didn't go to church. I went to Shinjuku with Dimas to meet his friends (Kusuma Dewi and Natasya). We had lunch at the Mexican restaurant in Shinjuku. This is my second time having lunch in this restaurant.

In the evening, I met with my fellow IUJ MBA classmates. Total 13 people. We had dinner at Maharaja Indian Restaurant in Shinjuku. They are also doing internship in Tokyo. Two of them are doing interns in Barclays Capital.. and earning a lot!!!! Sugoi ne!!

Summer Internship @ TAC - Week 2

6 July
I intend to join a gym membership during my stay in Tokyo. At least, I have something to do at night. I went to Omori Konami Sports Club and asked for further details. Last week, I went to Kamata branch. I somehow preferred this Omori branch and finally decided to join the membership. It costs me 19,000 yen for two months.

7 July
I finally finished my first task in TAC and completed the manual and documentation... I am wondering what is my next task!

8 July
Today I started my gym membership @ Konami Sports Club in Omori. Orientation in Japanese!! OMG, another culture shock! i can only understand 60% of the whole orientation. When I don't understand, I pretend that I understand.. hehe... hai hai wakarimashita!!! So funny!! The machine and equipment are computerized... I can check how many reps and weight that I have done for the day, how many calories burnt, etc.. so advanced ne!!! Not sure if there is such machine in Singapore...

9 July
In the evening, we met Atri, an IUJ alum who is now working @ AEON Chiba. We ate at Mexican Restaurant in Shinjuku... A nice restaurant!

10 July
Life is as usual in TAC. At night, I went to the gym after work. Second visit to the gym. I tried to use the swimming pool but I was asked to leave the pool because I didn't wear head cap... In singapore, no one uses head cap while swimming... I dunno why it is a MUST in Japan... I am so ashamed...!!!!

Weekend 1: 4-5 July

4 July
I stayed in my room the whole day. Rin came to my place to use Internet. Her shataku doesn't have Internet connection. Poor Rin! She stays in Kawasaki, just one stop from Kamata. Dimas came to Tokyo today and stayed in my place for one week.

In the evening, I went out to meet my friend (Dewi) who came to Tokyo last week. Shopping @ UNIQLO *there is a sale going on!! Dinner @ Kabukicho...

5 July
Today is the D-Day for JLPT. Three bright young Indonesian students *I, Dimas and Yulia began our adventurous trip to Tokyo Daigaku Komaba campus for the JLPT 2. We made some bento for lunch! Yes, yaki udon!!

After the exam, we met Joven @ Shibuya. She took JLPT 1 also. Sugoi ne!!

Summer Internship @ TAC - Week 1

This Monday, 29 June 2009, I started my internship at Tokyo American Club. http://www.tokyoamericanclub.org/

Day 1 - 29 Jun
On my first day, I was introduced to the staff in TAC. The member facilities there are very nice. There are plenty of restaurants, ranging from casual to formal; swimming pools, gyms, library, meeting rooms, etc. I heard from my boss that the joining fee is also very high. It is indeed a high-class club with many expatriates.

TAC office is located in Shinagawa area. This is a temporary office. They will move to their new building next year in Azabudai area. I saw the masterplan sketch. It is very modern and cosy!!!

From today onwards till 25th August, I will work in the Finance department, improving their processes and assisting in implementing the Abacus AP and purchasing module. My first assignment is to create a Microsoft Access application to automate the generation of AP import files to the Abacus system.

There is a staff canteen where all staff have their lunch there. The lunch menu served is delicious. Every day, I can eat salad, soup of the day, and the main meal. I think the taste is comparable to outside mid level restaurant. Of course it is 100 times better than IUJ Shokudo...

My feeling is just normal. Not happy and not sad. Isn't it my dream 4 years ago working in Tokyo? Now, I have realized my dream (although only for 2 months). I can experience commuting in Tokyo during rush hours wearing black suits. Isn't it cool? I can experience nijikai, drinking after work, etc. Isn't it great? Hm.... why don't I have those great feeling? It is indeed a great challenge working in Japan, especially Tokyo. The first and most difficult challenge is communication. If you don't know Japanese, don't go to work in Tokyo. You will suffer...!!! Trust me!!!

Day 2 - 30 Jun
Rin came to Tokyo and I met her together with Dimas for Dinner @ Kamata. She will start her internship next MOnday. She stays in Kawasaki, one stop from Kamata. NExt time, I will visit her in Kawasaki. Heard that there are a lot of interesting places in Kawasaki, e.g two cinemas, many shopping centers...

Day 3 - 1 Jul
Dimas went back to IUJ today and Jin Kai will come to Tokyo and stay with me temporarily. Rin actually asked me to have dinner together with Oscar, Ken and Josh. But, I can't make it because I have to fetch Jinkai at night.

ON this day, I showed to my boss my work so far to ensure that I am doing in the correct direction. I am scared that I misunderstood his instructions since he gave the instructions in Japanease. I can only understand 80% of his instructions. THus, I showed him the work-in-progress today. He was quite pleased and gave some suggestions for improvement. I will fine-tune the system again.

Day 4 - 2 Jul
I went to CFA Society of Japan 10th Anniversary Events, met a lot of great people working in Finance field... I am very ashamed of myself as I ran out of namecards. I should have brought more namecards. After the event, I and new-made friends went for nijikai. I reached home at around 11pm.

Oh ya. I met two Indonesian friends there. Minna sugoi people... I think I am the only student there. MOst probably the youngest there also. Initially, I don't want to attend the event already. I do not know anyone before the event. But, I don't regret it!!! Now, I make many new friends whom in future I may need to count on if I work in Tokyo next year. ^_^

Day 5 - 3 Jul
I almost finished my first assignment in TAC. Yep!! Weekend is coming. This Sunday, 5 July I will have my JLPT level 2. I don't think I can pass as I haven't studied at all.. Anyway, I will take it again in Dec later...

Pre-Summer Internship in Tokyo - Day 9

This morning, I went to TAC to familiarize myself with the route. Tomorrow I am going to start my internship. I don't want to be late tomorrow!

I met my IUJ friends (Dung, Joven, Chin, Dimas, Karn, Minh, 7 of us) for lunch @ Hanamasa Ginza. This is the 6th time I visited the restaurant. I went to this restaurant first time 3 years ago when I travelled to Japan on tour. The tour guide brought us there.

1,200 yen.. all-you-can-eat.. yakiniku! I think it is worth the meal ^_^

Then, I headed to IFGF Narimasu. This is my second time going to the church. ^_ Made many new friends there. It was to my surprise that there are a lot of Medanese (Indonesian who originates from Medan, my hometown).. ^_^

Ok.. it is now time to cook dinner...Menu for today's dinner: Sausage Fried Rice

God has really opened a way for me... Thank God... I can now manage my finance for SHanghai exchange program. ^_^

Pre-Summer Internship in Tokyo - Day 8

In the evening, Dimas and I went to meet Netty. She is leaving Japan tomorrow morning (11 am flight). This is really the last dinner with her.

We met at Asakusa Senso-ji, and took our farewell photos there. We ate okonomiyaki @ Asakusa. This is the same restaurant as the one that I had during MIF Tokyo seminar.

Bye, tante!!! We will miss you.

See you again in Jakarta...

Pre-Summer Internship in Tokyo - Day 7

I stayed in my room for the whole day, finishing my freelance work and the Rosy Business HK TVB Drama...

I finally finished watching the drama.. Nice drama !

Pre-Summer Internship in Tokyo - Day 6

I visited a friend of mine from Waseda Business School who will be going to CEIBS for exchange also. I went to Waseda University to meet him. Wow, the university is nice!!!! It reminded me of Tokyo University... Very cozy, friendly, clean.. ^_^ A very typical Japanese university. ^_^

It was to my surprise that my friend is about same age as me (only 10 days different). ^_^ Hm... how do I describe him?

1. Of course 100% Japanese.

2. Very hardworking.
He finishes two-year Waseda MBA curriculum in one year. He is taking 13 subjects this semester. Apart from that, he has arubaito.. I am wondering how he can survive and juggle with all these things... Sugoi ne!!!

3. Friendly - we can chit chat for almost 3 hrs. We met at 12.30 and I left there at 3.30pm..... Lots of things to talk ^_^

Oh yeah... Before I went to Waseda, I went to Roppongi to collect my China visa. I was stopped by two policemen, asking me to show my ID.. I was quite surprised.. What was wrong? Later, I found out that in the train, there was a notice saying that police was on high alert. There may be some fugitives... Something like that.. It was written in Japanese. I just guessed the meaning... And, why Roppongi and not other stations??? Later, I also found out that Roppongi is the place where almost all the foreign embassies are located. Something must have happened. I can't be bothered to find out more, because I couldn't understand the notice.. ^_^

Anyway, another impression of Tokyo living style... The transportation is "damn expensive". I spent around 1500 yen today just for transportation.. That is equivalent to Rp, 150.000 (SGD 22) just for train transportation... My gosh!!!!! I can go bankrupt if I go on like this..... Tomorrow, I have decided to stay in my room the whole day, do my freelance and prepare for my internship ...

Oh gosh, I just realised that I haven't visited the internship company yet... I need to find out how to reach there, so that on my first day, I don't need to worry about the direction... Alamak.. I should have done that this afternoon on the way back....

Maybe, I will do it on Sunday or Saturday...

Pre-Summer Internship in Tokyo - Day 5

Four things happened today that will make me remember:

1. On the way back from supermarket, I waited for around 10 minutes for the traffic light. This is not a normal traffic light. It is a traffic light for train. There is a term in Japanese, but I forgot. In the middle of the road, the poles will be lowered down to block other car and people from crossing, while waiting for the train to pass through. Guess what? 10 minutes are not only for 1 train, but for 5 trains. Gosh... Japan's train system is so efficient... 5 trains can pass through in one go!!

2. Few days ago, I bought a rice from the supermarket. It is called "Musenmai" 無洗米。Rice that does not need to be washed. Another efficient thing from Japan!!!! I admire this country a lot! I tasted the rice. It tastes good!

3. I checked the garbage collection in my apartment downstairs. It is so organized. You have to separate combustible and non-combustible garbage and put your garbage in a specified plastic bag and put it the specified bin.... For big items, you have to call a number to dispose it. I believe you have to pay money to dispose. So organized!!! Another thing to admire in this country...

4. Rental futon! I have never known that we can rent futon, or even other electrical appliances..! The main reason behind renting all these items are the garbage disposal. It will be very cumbersome to dispose big items.. Thus, the renting/ leasing service is common in Japan. So environment-friendly.. Another bravo point for Japan!

Pre-Summer Internship in Tokyo - Day 4

I stayed in my room for the whole afternoon after going back from exploring area around JR Kamata station. Again, shopping for groceries, toiletries, and daily needs. There is UNIQLO in the Granduo Shopping Centre (just above JR Kamata station). There are many restaurants in the shopping centre...

Nothing special happened today. Eflyer, Facebook, msn...

In the evening, I started watching this Hongkong TV Drama "Rosy Business". Nice setting and story.

I did try to study for my JLPT.. but I am really in no mood to study. ANyway, I have given up on the exam. Ready to fail... ^_^

Pre-Summer Internship in Tokyo - Day 3

This morning, I went to China Embassy in Roppongi to apply for study visa for my exchange program to Shanghai... I am going to Shanghai maybe on 26 or 27 August 2009 for about 4 months. I will be studying in CEIBS (China Europe International Business School) for 1 semester.

In the afternoon, I went to have lunch near JR Kamata station. I bought groceries from the supermarket nearby. What puzzled me is the inconvenience when paying for the groceries.. I bought vegetables, meat and some snacks. I have to go to three cashiers to pay. One for vegetables, one for meat, one for snacks. Isn't it redundant? They are under the same supermarket, just different sections. I wonder why they implement such a system.

Finally I am back to my room....took an afternoon nap.. woke up and found out that there was a freelance assignment for me... So happy!!!! AT least there is a side income now.. BUt, I am still worried on my financial needs for SHanghai exchange. Although I don't need to pay for tuition fees, I still need to pay for accommodation and living expenses.

I have few Japanese yen left in my bank account.. maybe enough for me to tide over two months in TOkyo.... Chin told me that the internship salary will be credited to my bank account quite late (about 2 weeks late).. I will be receiving my first month July salary in Aug.. and my second month Aug salary in Sep (too late.. I have to leave for Shanghai by end Aug)..... Furthermore, my Matsushita scholarship will remit money only in Sept for 6 mths....

SO, where will I get the money to survive in Shanghai?? I don't know and I will just keep believing in God. God will make a way when there seems to be no way!!

When I come back next year to IUJ, I will have lots of money in my bank account... Isn't it good? Berakit-rakit dahulu, berenang-renang ke tepian... Of course, it is good.. but I will suffer in Shanghai. LOL... I have already thought of a backup plan.. ^_^ I still have Singapore credit cards. Luckily, I didn't terminate my credit cards. I can still use them in Shanghai. Anyway, I will keep believing in God! I believe miracle will somewhat somehow happens! And.. it is happening.. So far, I have two freelance assignments already.. ^_^ Thanks God!!! Yes, He will make a way...

Another good news today... I just checked my grade for Spring Semester... Yes, I made it again to Dean List (GPA 4 out of 4). This is the third time I made into the Dean list. That is, for the whole academic year, I made it to the Dean List for three consecutive semesters. Thank God! All these are the gift from God... I am quite surprised that I can achieve GPA 4.0 this semester. I thought I have neglected my study a lot (due to intensive CFA level 1 preparation). I am quite pessimistic in getting good grades this semester.... But, anyway, God is good!!!! Nothing is impossible when you walk with God!

I have already given up on JLPT 2. I will retake it again in Dec in Shanghai. I have no mood to study now....

Pre-Summer Internship in Tokyo - Day 2

Today is Sunday. I woke up quite late... around 9AM.. GOsh!!! I normally wake up at around 7am in IUJ...

Maybe because I was too tired yesterday, plus it was raining outside, making it more comfortable to sleep...

I was contemplating whether to go to church or not... I have not been going to church (Urasa church) for very long time. IN 2009, I only went there once. I stopped going there because I didn't understand the whole session as it was conducted in Japanese.

This time, I found two Indonesian church in Tokyo, GIII (http://www.giii-japan.org/id/home) and IFGF GISI (http://www.ifgfjapan.org/tokyo/). I went to GIII last Dec once during my transit from MIF Kansai Seminar. This time, I wanted to attend IFGF GISI.

Yep... I finally decided to go to IFGF GISI. This was my first time going there. The church is located in Narimasu. Very far from Kamata. It took around 1.5 hrs (680 yen) to reach there. I arrived on time!!! 2.30 pm teng..... the session starts!!!

I didn't regret going to this church. It was nearly the same as the one I usually attend in Singapore (Bethany Church Singapore), from the charismatic songs, the praise, the worship, everything.... It reminds me of Singapore... Oh.. I missed Singapore....

The session lasted for 2 hours. Following that, there is one hour networking and sharing session. Here, I made a lot of friends (mostly Indonesian, but some Japanese).

After the church, I went to watch movie with my newly made friends. We went to Shinjuku to watch Transformer 2. Great movie!!!! Superb!

Pre-Summer Internship in Tokyo - Day 1

Yes, the day has finally arrived. I have moved to Tokyo today 20 June 2009. My internship will start on 29 June 2009, one week from today..

I took the bus from Muikamachi and arrived at Ikebukuro at around 2.30pm.

The journey in Tokyo starts here...

First, I went to Create Shared House, the house agency, to settle my apartment contract. After settling the contract, I headed to Kamata to check-in to my apartment. The apartment's name is Refre Kamata. It is located in Shinagawa area (2 mins walking from Keikyuu Kamata station and 12 mins from JR Kamata station).

And here are some pics of the apartment (25.8 sqm):

(with balcony)

(toilet)

(bathroom and washroom)

(hallway)

(bed)

(with small kitchen, fridge, microwave and tableware)

They provided everything from tableware (spoon, chopsticks, kitchen utensils, pan, pot, rice cooker, hair dryer etc). This is good!!!! I don't need to buy them and don't even need to worry how to dispose them during check-out).

This is my Day 1 in Tokyo! It is a tiring day after travelling from places to places with my big 29 inch heavy luggage...

MBA 1st Year @ Hakkaisan - 16 June 2009

MBA 1st Year BBQ - 9 May 2009

Dean List - Winter 2009

I made it to the Dean List for the previous Winter semester.

^_^.. second time being named into the Dean List.

Anyway, in my humble opinion, I don;t think Dean List matters when you look for a job. You need 80% "luck" and 20% competence in job hunting.

Lady luck, please come to me as I need to start looking for job soon.

38 Days to CFA ＣＦＡの試験までの３８日

From today till the CFA exam days, there are 38 days left. The more I study, the more stressed I am. I forgot all the materials that I have studied before. What should I do? Even I review the materials today, next week surely I will forget.

Around IUJ, there are many activities going on: IUJ Open Day, IUJ Olympics, IUJ Japanese Speech, SAkura Festival, Kimono Festival. And.... I have decided to skip all those events, for the sake of the CFA. Is it worth it? I hope the sacrifice is worth...

今日からＣＦＡの試験の日まで３８日が残っている。勉強すれば勉強するほど緊張しようになリます。前に勉強したトピックを全部忘れちゃった。大変ね！どうすればいい？復習してるものの、すぐ忘れちゃった。

また、大学で色々なイベントがあるのに、全部参加しないことにするよ。たとえば、日本語発表会、ＩＵＪオリムピク、ＩＵＪオペンデー、桜祭り、着物祭り、など。

寂しそうね！

Hanami @ IUJ 16 Apr 09 ＩＵＪでの花見 ４月１６日

MBA 1st Hanami - 16 April 2009

Sakura

Early this week, sakura has bloomed. A beautiful scenery in campus during sunset ne!

I am becoming busier and busier as the CFA exam date (7 Jun 09) approaches... 8 weeks to go! Ganbatte ne! After CFA, what is next?
1. Internship in Tokyo from 29 Jun 2009 - 25 Aug 2009
2. JLPT 2 on 5th July 2009.
3. Exchange program to CEIBS Shanghai from 26 Aug 2009 till Dec 2009.

A very exciting journey awaits! Looking forward to it!

Back to Reality

I am:
1. back from Tokyo - Hongkong trip
2 back to civilized country
3. back to inaka life
4. back to IUJ life
5. back to CFA mode
6. .... overall, back to reality

Spring Vacation 21 Mar - 2 Apr

What am I planning to do during this Spring break?
1. CFA Study
2. Tokyo 29 - 30 Mar
3. Hongkong Trip 30 Mar - 2 Apr
4. Exercise @ Gym
5. Party @ RRJA
6. Hongkong TVB Drama - The Gem of Life

Part-time library assistant - 図書館でのアルバイト

Recently, I started to work as part-time library assistant. Busy, but interesting. It paid me 800 yen (about SGD 12) for one hour. In one week, I can only work maximum 9 hours. Not bad lah! ^_^

最近図書館でアルバイトをすることにする。忙しくても、楽しいと思います。給料は一時間に８００円です。一週間に９時間以下働くことになる。

今日は午後６時から１１時４５分まで働くことになる。頑張って！

The Gem of Life 珠光寶氣

I am currently watching this Hongkong TVB Drama... episode 23/ 82 .. long way to go!

Read more on its synopsis here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Gem_of_Life

Last Exam 最後の試験

Today is the last day for winter semester's final exam. SO happy ne! From tomorrow onwards until April 3rd, there will be Spring holiday. But, I have to work even harder during this Spring break for my upcoming June CFA exam. I will be travelling to Hongkong from 30 Mar till 2 Apr (4 days 3 night). Looking forward to the trip.

今日は冬学期の最後の期末試験なので、とても嬉しい。明日から四月三日まで休むことになっているが、もっと一所懸命ＣＦＡのために勉強しようと思う。三月三十一日から四月二日まで香港へ旅行に行くよ！四日三泊の旅行なのに、楽しみをします。

So beautifully arranged! Thank God!

I just received the news that I got another waiver for Managerial Accounting course next semester. Whoaaa! I now truly realized why I went through such an ordeal last time: rejected by NUS, NTU, unemployed for almost 8 months, enrolled in Singapore Accountancy Academy for ACCA... At least, I managed to waive two courses using my ACCA certificate... ^_^ Not that I don't want to take the two courses, but I believe my time can be spent on taking other new courses and gaining new knowledge, rather than repeating what I have studied a year ago...

All things happened for a reason... I truly cherish my golden opportunity given to me by God! It is really a dream comes true....

What;s next? It is so beautifully arranged and planned by God:
1. Internship in Tokyo (end June - end Aug).
2. Exchange program in CEIBS Shanghai or HKUST Hongkong (end Aug - early Dec).

Two new environments in a row! Thank GOD!

For the internship, this is really a miracle from God. In this tough economy, I have received two internship offers. Too good to be true! 信じられない！Unfortunately, I have to decline one of the two offers.

For the exchange program, I haven't decided yet which one to choose. But, most likely I will choose CEIBS due to the following reasons:
- lower living expenses
- higher rank by Financial Times MBA (8th in the world 2009 FT Rankings)
- CHinese environment (easier to adapt as I can speak Chinese, at least conversational Chinese)

I also have a very strong motivation to go to HKUST, ie to learn Cantonese. Moreover, who knows I can find an opportunity to work in Hongkong upon my graduation from IUJ. Another choice for place of working, other than Singapore, Indonesia and Japan...

Truly thank God for everything that has been planned so beautifully! ジェス、本当うに感謝するよ。

Naked Men Festival 裸祭り 3 Mar 2009

Watch the video here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTzQ-u0Oi2Q



Some Pictures:




Dinner @ Tampopo - Urasa

旅人 ケツメイシ

Potluck South East Asia - 27 Feb 2009

Total: 13 people
Total country: 5 (Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thai, Vietnam)

Shin Ramyun

This is the first time tasting this Korean noodle after arriving in Japan. Finally, I managed to find it in Daiso Muikamachi..It tastes heavenly. I usually eat this noodles in Singapore.

今回は日本に着いて、このラメンを初めて食べた。　ダイソで見つけた。うまい！ｼﾝｶﾞﾎﾟｰﾙでよく食べたよ！

Matsushita International Foundation (MIF) Dinner - 24 Feb 2009

Honda Factory Tour - 23 Feb 2009

As part of the learning enhancement process, on Monday, 23 February 2009 10.30AM, a group of 50 students from Operations Management OPR1010 class visited Honda Factory in Sayama-shi, Saitama prefecture. The group was accompanied by Prof Kurata who is teaching the class and Toru Wada, an administrative staff from GSIM.

The journey took about 3 hours, excluding the one-hour lunch stop-over at Akagi-Kogen service area. The group reached the factory at about 2.30PM and was greeted by two friendly engineers who then split the group into two sub-groups and took them to car assembly sites to observe the production process of Honda automobiles. Equipped with one headset for every student, and supported by Prof Kurata’s translation, students were able to understand the briefings while observing the production processes.

After visiting the assembly sites, the group headed to a room where a corporate video of Honda Saitama factory was presented. Following the video presentation, Q&A session was held to clarify any doubts. IUJ students participated actively in the discussion, with Prof Kurata acting as the translator and intermediator.

As a token of visit from Honda, IUJ students were given a corporate cap, brochure and a plastic container. Before leaving the factory, the group visited Honda car showroom and took group pictures there. It was really a fruitful and enjoyable trip.

(reported by William Rimbun, 1st Year MBA)

Tokamachi Snow Festival 十日町雪祭り 21 Feb 2009

The colourful ice stage - 1

The colourful ice stage - 2

The colourful ice stage - 3

Candle in snow!

IM Party - 20 Feb 09

E-BIZ students


IM-Council President giving speech



Oh...when can we eat? Very hungry already!



Cheese!

DJ of the night - Abraham

Rame2 dhe pokoknya!

Rame2 lagi dhe!

Rame2 lagi!

Sushi - RRJA TM