During the start of second trimester, we had our first skill lecture, our module leader, Frances announced that there will be PDP session in week 6. At first, I thought what is a PDP and why I need to attend? Then she told us it is Personal Development Planning session in which we all be allocated in random group to discuss about the Common Good attributes and how we are contributing to it. I was so sure for not attending it, but she said it was mandatory to attend unless you have a valid reason. Honestly, I began to think that what could be the valid reason? I thought for a week then I just gave up.
So, in week 6, we all gathered for PDP session. We were divided into small groups. Before going further, I knew each of them during the time of induction week where we all had a chance to meet other international students and get to know them, their culture and traditions. This is what Common Good Attributes (CGA) stand for, Active and Global Citizenship. But this was the first time, I had an opportunity to know them more personally.
First, we had no idea how to begin the conversation, so we started by briefly introducing our self. After introduction, we further continue our conversation by asking most enjoyable time during the time in Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) to which everyone answer unanimously to make new friends and to travel. Slowly and gradually, we began to feel comfortable in discussing about experiences in GCU. We further discussed about the most important CGA and how we are developing them. For me, it was responsible leadership because during my undergraduate degree, I was the member of the organizing committee of the welfare society. My job was to make sure that we all work as a team and make this society better by organizing charity events . This is another great experience in my life for which you must come back to read my next blog. So in GCU, I became member of cisa and I actively participated in their welfare work to help someone to make their life easier.
Moving forward, there was another question about our achievements that are important to us. Everyone shared their stories, but the best answer was given by a girl in our group. She told us about hardship and financial problems she faced while applying for GCU. She waited for one year and she constantly applied for scholarships and luckily, she got the Saltire Scholarship. While in Glasgow, she is doing part time job to support her studies as well studying her Masters. It is difficult for her to manage time and very stressful but however, she is dealing with it. I was completely inspired by her story. I realized that everyone is fighting their battle and yet smiling in front of others and the most important part of this session was that I learnt something from everyone in my group for e.g. how to manage time, how to be more confident, how to be independent and how to be responsible leader. It turned out to be a great session and I will attend next session with more preparation and with more enthusiasm. Can’t wait!!!
aaslam206 