AIESEC is the international platform for young people to discover and develop their potential. To that end, AIESEC believes in equipping its members with practical skills and it is the reason I decided to give AIESEC a go in my first year in university. I wasn't dissapointed.

One of the notable skill sessions I attended was the one run by Deloitte on negotiation skills. I was a klutz when it came to negotiating; often not getting what I wanted. What I should have done, as learnt from the session, is that I should start with the end in mind; ideally, a negotiation should result in a win-win situation. Compromise if needed be.

Another skill session which I have benefited from was the one on presentation skills. Our Local Community President (LCP), Thomas gave a brilliant talk on the do's and don'ts of giving a presentation. A random topic was then given and at the end of a brief 5-minute preparation, we were expected to speak on that subject. It was nerve-wreaking! It was great practice though. When I ran for the position of Vice President of Business and Development (VPBD), I called upon the guidance Thomas had given and gave a speech that won me the role.

Truly, AIESEC is about you; a chance to develop practical skills. In the coming term, the new Executive Board (EB) has planned several skill sessions which will greatly benefit you. Stay tuned for more updates!

Zach Lim
VPBD