Knowledge is Power

After today's SUTD's 'Masters of Technology and Design' lecture, I realised that I really really missed school! I want to go back to studying so much. I just got to wait 2 more months till I ORD. Yes, just 2 more months to freedom!

Today's lecture was enriching because it somewhat introduced me to what architecture can be. And indeed, it showed me the beautiful aspects of buildings. The speaker was Professor Fumihiko Maki, a renowned architect who won the prestigious Pritzker Prize. Although he is at old age of 82, I was impressed by hisinsight during the lecture in which he introduced his thoughts and ideas while designing the various academic institutions.

Few points that I could take away:
- 'A city is a big house, and house is a small city"

The intricate designs in a house and a city are somewhat similar in that city. I think whatever is needed in the house applies the same to a city, just that the city is more expansive in size and holds a larger population.

- Between 0 to 16metres of a building will determine the character of the building because most interaction between human beings occur in that range

 The usage of space is evident in Prof Maki's work. The way he used the horizontal, vertical and diagonal lines to contrast and allow people/residents to desire to work in the space available to them was very impressive. One example is Singapore's own Republic Polytechnic. Students make use of the space to occupy themselves with activities. These activities are what determine the character of a buidling or how successful architecture has excited education in the institute.

I really admire Professor Maki for being so strong in his heart for architecture. Even though he is 82 this year, he still contributes so much to the architectural world. Even now, he is involved in the rebuilding of Ground Zero - World Trade Center Tower 4. People like him can really devote themselves to their work and interest. I hope I can be like this, contributing to the world, leaving behind my footprints in others' memories. Likewise, I am going to remember the lecture that I had today.

I am really excited about the SUTD education. I can't wait to start, actually. After hearing what Prof Tom and Mr Ng have explained about how SUTD's education is going to produce the next future generation of students that will be different from the rest, I can't help but feel upbeat about what I will go through in SUTD. It is the only university that has really captured my attention, and the only one that really makes me want to enroll in it.

I just can't wait to go back to school again, to the environment where learning and interaction is so fun. I guess NS will help me cherish university education and impel me to do my best.

Complicated

Why is life so complicated? Before when we were younger, like during primary school days, our lives were so much simpler. There was nothing much to worry about and for what we did, the adults didn't really care.

But now, we complicate ourselves with matters that can seem simple on the outside but messy in the inside. Why do we have to complicate things when it can be so much simpler? Do we have to think so much about it? Are we all influenced to ask ourselves so many questions, which consequently cause ourselves to be paranoid and afraid to put one step forward.

Action still speaks louder than words. There are a few who can act rationally without thinking too much. These are the people who can think on the ground, cut the crap off the whole load of content, and just go straight to the point. And it is also the fact that they are able to do this, that they have this natural aura of leadership.

There is just too much baggage that we have to carry around in our lives. All our personal experiences whether happy or sad, can help us in growing up but we have to move on. By moving on, we should leave these history behind, but not totally. It has to be enough to start afresh and to tell yourself that it will not affect your future decisions.

I was told that there only exists a thin line for something. I am someone who seeks answers fervently, bashing through anything that comes into my way till I reach my destination. Having a thin line may mean that others can easily transcend into the boundaries. Thin or not, the line has to be absolute. Both parties will need to understand the absolute statuses and rights conferred on the side beyond the line. A thin line doesn't give answers. It merely gives space for doubts and misunderstandings to grow.

Was it something I said, or just my personality?