Was called for the final interview for OBS instructor and went for it. Out of the 9candidates who survived the selection camp, 5 remained: Wei Zhen, Jeffrey, Shahid, Hassan and me.
During the interview, many questions were asked and they seem to know that I can talk a lot. And the 1st question was why I should be selected as an instructor and I was given 2 minutes to prevent over talking. I choose one point to talk throughout the time given - My belief in experiential learning.
From there, it moved on from the different experiences that I have and occasional insertion of questions and peer appraisal again. ARGH. but this time it was easier as it was about who should be selected. I chose 1st to be Jeffrey for his reliability and smiles, Wei Zhen for his calmness in making good judgements and lastly me and since they were so entrenched in the idea that I can really talk, I said for my communication skills.
A queer question was asked by Mr Han: If there are two casualty, one male and the other female, who will you save? I couldn't answer and asked for more details and there was no other details given and instinctively, I said I will save both of them and if there is possibility of calling for help I would but if there isn't, I will save the both of them. In retrospect, it may logically be impossible but my heart says I can and I have to.
During the Q&A, I asked a question about the idea where the corporate arm of OBS could generate a revenue sufficient to support and fully subsides the expenses of the training branch so that the youths that come into OBS can enjoy the learning experience without paying a cent. After further shariung and understanding the replies from the panel, I realised that the student pay zero dollars and that it's the schools that pays. This beautiful picture in my mind was rejected plainly and yet I see that this is possible and that the principals who know in their hearts the benefits from the OBS experience, would surely send their students since it cost them zilch to allow their students to be there at Pulau Ubin.
Some learning points at the interview which Mr Han highlighted includes how I shouldn't think too long to answer as it's not examinations and the participants would want a quick answer. Another is that I should be as concise as I can and not give long winded answers.
I know that I will enjoy myself so much at this job where I get to challenge the next generation and to encouraging them in their pursuit of their dreams. So much more than being a higher paid equipment engineer at some plant pushing for higher productivity. Now, I need to seek the peace of God if this is the path to take. I need the approval of Daddy and Mummy if not I will not pursue this.
It's going to be tiring.
