Hi there everyone! (:
You know that feeling when you are in your penultimate year and suddenly you realize "OMG, what have I done with my university life?" And the feeling you get after that when you realized you have not really done much and you are already too far into your candidature to go on exchange overseas for a semester plus you can never ever go for summer programmes or summer school just because your course has a mandatory field placement component in order for you to graduate?
YES. That. Sad. Feeling. D:
So like the desperate person I am, when I received an email calling for applications as volunteer teachers to elementary schools in Taiwan, I totally jumped at the opportunity. "But you can't speak Mandarin Sarah! Good luck teaching the children." Yeah I know but not all weaknesses are weaknesses. It's a matter of perspective really.
So how does this work? Well, firstly you need to sign up for an account with the liaison organization and you will be assigned an intern number known as EP ID. It is basically like an NRIC/FIN no. for participants. Using the number, you are required to apply for a spot as an intern by writing to the employer and enclosing your resume along with it. Something like applying for a job. Of course, may the best applicant win!
Here is my cover letter and resume along with the job description of the internship I am interested in. I have already done one round of amendments based on feedback from my groupmates. What do you guys think?
Thank you! :D
Hi, Sarah
ReplyDeleteYour application letter and resume are really attractive and summarize your experience and skills. Especially, it is remarkable that you can change your “weakness” into a positive thing. In general, it is a disadvantage that you cannot speak Mandarin, and referring about it should be avoided. However, you not only honestly confessed that you cannot speak Mandarin but also made it positive. Your quick-wittedness will be recognized as one of your strong points. To make your application letter better, you can write why you would like to join this program. Because there are various kinds of projects that try to help children, you can figure on the point that you think attractive. Those who have strong motivation tend to work hard. Therefore, please try to explain your motivation for this program to express your passion.
-Naoki
Hi Sarah,
ReplyDeleteBrilliant idea of putting the links up, rather than copying the letter into the blog. Loved the way you turned your inability to speak Mandarin into something quite strong!
I have noticed your have mentioned "detailing a little bit" somewhere in the 3rd line of your 1st paragraph. I feel that "little bit" is more of an informal phrase and should possibly be avoided. What do you think?
Also, could you strengthen your point on "facilitating workshops and giving presentations" by perhaps mentioned how many participants you catered to?
Hope this helps!