Updated: 03.04.2025 Subject: Formal self-introduction Dear Professor Blackstone,
As I embark on your Critical Thinking & Communicating module, I am eager to refine my communication abilities and deepen my critical analysis skills, both of which I recognize are paramount for success in the demanding field of civil engineering. My name is Wen Cong, and I am a bachelor of civil engineering student at SIT. I am writing to introduce myself and articulate my specific goals for this course, aligning them with the high standards you set for effective professional communication. My foundation in architecture from Nanyang Polytechnic, coupled with subsequent practical experience in BIM coordination and on-site drafting, has provided me with a solid understanding of the technical aspects of construction. However, I am acutely aware that technical proficiency alone is insufficient. To excel as a future construction project director, I must master the art of conveying complex information clearly, persuasively, and concisely. My practical experiences have shown me that I possess certain communication strengths. For example, I am adept at translating technical information into actionable insights for diverse teams, as demonstrated by my work in resolving BIM clashes and coordinating between architectural, structural, and MEP models. I can effectively use visual aids and technical drawings to facilitate understanding, and I am comfortable communicating with stakeholders from various backgrounds. However, I recognize several areas where I need significant improvement. Specifically, I sometimes struggle to distill complex information into succinct, impactful prose. This is particularly relevant when communicating with non-technical stakeholders who require clear, accessible explanations. While I can present technical data, I need to develop the ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences and drive decisions. I aim to improve my ability to structure presentations logically, use persuasive language, and effectively engage my audience. While I can analyze technical problems, I need to enhance my ability to construct robust arguments, evaluate evidence critically, and anticipate counterarguments. I want to become more proficient in identifying logical fallacies and biases in both my own and others' reasoning.
In this module, I aspire to learn how to write clear, concise, and persuasive reports, proposals, and emails that effectively communicate complex technical information. I want to improve my ability to tailor my writing style to different audiences and purposes. I want to enhance my ability to deliver compelling presentations that capture audience attention, convey key messages effectively, and inspire action. I seek to improve my public speaking skills, including voice modulation, body language, and visual aid design. I aim to learn how to analyze information critically, identify underlying assumptions, evaluate evidence rigorously, and construct logical arguments. I want to become more adept at problem-solving and decision-making in complex engineering contexts.
I understand that you emphasize clear, logical, and persuasive communication, underpinned by rigorous critical thinking. I am committed to actively participating in class discussions, completing assignments to the highest standard, and applying the principles learned in this module to my future professional endeavors.
My experiences at Nanyang Polytechnic, the TP-BCAA work-study post-diploma programme, and Shimizu Corporation Singapore have provided me with a strong foundation in the practical aspects of civil engineering. I am confident that your module will equip me with the critical thinking and communication skills necessary to bridge the gap between technical expertise and effective leadership, ultimately enabling me to achieve my goal of becoming a successful construction project director. Thank you for your guidance and expertise. I look forward to contributing to a stimulating and enriching learning environment. Best regards,
Chee Wen Cong
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ReplyDeleteDear Wen Cong,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing about yourself. I liked the proper format you wrote your email with as I really felt that I could imagine walking down your path as an architectural student studying in Nanyang polytechnic, using all the engineering software’s transitioning from school projects to on-the-job training. This allowed me who also enjoyed using engineering software’s to feel a connection with you.
However, I feel that you may have misunderstood and missed out a main point of the email as Professor Blackstone had inquired not only about your educational background and heightened interest in engineering but also your communication strengths and weakness. While you did include your personal goals in his module, but I feel like you could have delved deeper into the topic as it felt quite shallow to read how it would help you become a construction project director.
Finally, other then knowing your past till present history, I feel like you do not really know what you want to gain from this module as there is barely anything written about it in this email.
Overall, your email is professional, well-organized, and showcases relevant experiences. With refinements to content, personal engagement, and focus on communication-specific skills, it can be even more impactful.
Best regards,
Jonathan Tay
Dear Jonathan,
DeleteThank you for taking the time to provide such thoughtful and constructive feedback on my introduction email. I appreciate your kind words regarding the format and structure, and I’m pleased to hear that my experiences resonated with you, particularly our shared interest in using engineering software. It’s encouraging to know that my journey has created a sense of connection between us.
I also acknowledge your valuable feedback regarding the focus of my email. Upon reflection, I realise that I could have provided a more comprehensive discussion about my communication strengths and weaknesses, as well as my specific goals for this module. Your observations have given me a clearer perspective on how I can better align my content with Professor Blackstone's expectations.
Moving forward, I will make the necessary improvements by elaborating on how I hope to enhance my communication skills and better articulate my aspirations for this course. Your constructive comments have been truly helpful in guiding me towards writing a more focused and impactful introduction.
Once again, I appreciate your feedback and the effort you put into reviewing my email. I look forward to learning from this module and improving alongside you.
Best regards,
Wen Cong
Thank you, Wen Cong, for this fairly well developed and informative letter. For the most part in your story you have addressed the various areas of the brief, and you've done so by sharing relevant and interesting details. You also expound on quite a bit of pertinent professional experience.
ReplyDeleteI do have a few questions though.
You mention, for example, that initially you studied architecture. I'm curious as to the genesis of that first study. Was it your talent for drawing, family pressure or simple interest? It's clear that once in the poly programme, you developed a passion for "design and construction" and that this shift in focus was enhanced by your use of various apps and then work study. It's interesting that during your journey the totality of this experience was "sparking" a passion for engineering.
I may be confused though: It seems that the TP-BCAA work study and the Shimizu gig were different programmes. Is that true, or not? (It might help to not use the acronym.)
In any case, you clearly share on your comms skills strengths, and your aims for this module. You state that in your work at Shimizu you were tasked to find "potential design clashes and ensure the models reflected real-world site conditions," and that this necessitated and supported the development of prof comm skills. It's clear that this breadth of experience is may be distinguishes you from others in the CVE programme.
I woud have liked to learn something about what you see as a weakness in your comm skills. Any challenges when you were in the workplace to add?.
In terms of language, this letter is fluent.
I'm happy to meet you at this stage of your learning journey, and I look forward to learning more from you in the coming weeks.
Best wishes,
Brad