What is Effective Leadership? - Event Calendar - Assumption ...

Contents2Welcome MessagesPresident, Dean, DirectorYear 1, Issue 3, May 201356Student’s CollageWhat is Effective Leadership?Recent ActivitiesIn tribute to His Holiness Benedict XVIIn spiritual traditions you ledYour Church as God’s elected oneOn the Chair of Peter you satIn decisions for God’s peopleAnd their spiritualityA year of faith you declaredIn Paulian zest to set a missionTo bring your people to their LordIn leadership you were both bold and astuteEven in human frailty you persistedHolding firm to your duty as God’s anointedThen, in the glaring lights of world attentionYou realized that human strength is indeed fleetingYet, not abandoning Go’s willYou strode into silence and reflectionChoosing to live your life meditative and prayerfulOur thanks could not be as meaningful,If we too recognizing that our lives are limited,Did not turn, as you did, to our MakerAnd joining you in your life of prayerGave thanks and praise to HimAll the days of our remaining livesContributorsRev. Bro.Dr. Martin Prathip Komolmas, f.s.g.Rev. Bro. Dr. Bancha Saenghiran, f.s.g.Rev. Fr. Nghi Dinh, O.P.Dr. Jirapun DaengdejDr. Zofia Rummel-SyskaDr. Vorapot RuckthumDr. Voravee PattaravongvisutDr. Santhiti TreetipbutGlen ChatelierMichael McDanielNarachai TreetipbutSumit SharmaManaging EditorJohannes LiedtkeConsultantsDr. Kitti PhothikittiDr. Soonthorn PibulcharoensitDistributionKwanchanok KlongklaewCoordinatorRangsan Traibutra DistributionGraphic and PrintingPressociate Co. Ltd.89101214222026283234Effective LeadersLeadershipICT Knowledge and Skills for AECAre You Ready?Life in ThailandThe Largest Water fight in ThailandStudent InterviewAndrew Amone BagumaGSB VoiceWho will win the Election on March 3?FeatureIn Tribute to His Holiness Benedict XVISpecial InterviewChristopher GroyerSpeaker of the MonthPeter Thomas Pigram: The ICT…The Future and PastGSB around CampusGreat EscapeMan on the Move: FranceInsight TechnologyStreet of Automotive FashionLife StyleThe Jim Thompson House and FarmGlen ChatelierGraduate School of Business, Assumption University of ThailandFebruary 28, 2013

Message from the President>>>Message from the Dean“In Thailandthere is anintensive preparationfor the comingASEAN Communityin 2015”“I do hope that thestudents in theGraduate Businessprograms which weoffer will be mindful ofthe power of theirleadership potential”We live in a globalized age where reaching out to connectwith the world is at one’s fingertips. However, it is importantthat one has to connect with the region, ASEAN Communityin particular, and we should not forget our roots, whichis the core and foundation of one’s life.In Thailand, there is an intensive preparation for the comingASEAN Community in 2015. Government as well as privateinstitutions of higher learning have set the budget for variousprojects to push forward and make their presence feltin ASEAN. We, at AU, have to ask ourselves three questions:(1), Are we aware of the existence of ASEAN Community?(2) Do we understand the implications of AEC 2015? And(3) What have we done as an institution to prepare ourselvesfor the new landscape?knowledge-based society with freeflow of people, tourists,students, investment, finance, etc. we have to live in a multiculturalenvironment, compete with all sorts of people,and be able to solve complex problems.I want each of you to be aware of this newlandscape, and take part in shaping its happening.Whether you like it or not, it is sureto exist. Consequently, you have to do whatis necessary, not merely to live with it or tocope with it, but to be one step ahead andtake part in shaping it so that it will not takeyou by surprise.Dear StudentsThe third issue of the newsletter “CONNECT” is in yourpossession as a testimony of the thoughts, the work andthe aspirations you represent in your student days at theGraduate School of Business. This issue of the newsletterfocuses on Interconnectivity, on leadership and on the AECframework for market integration.Given that the 20th Birth Anniversary of the Internet wasobserved on April 30, 2013 the larger world is abuzz withthe boons and the banes of the internet, and whatthe market overall has impacted from companies smarteningtheir business processes through the internet. In lightof this, can the emergent AEC become the first example ofa Smart Market Integration?targeted results, the opposite truth rings sharper: leadersbest know their strengths, their weaknesses and the scopesof the opportunities and threats of their roles. Such awarenessis seated in the brainpower and capacity of leadersto extend their influence or curtail it. I do hope that thestudents in the Graduate Business programs which we offerwill be mindful of the power of their leadership potentialand display such leadership in propelling AEC into greaterprosperity.Finally, welcome to Trimester 1/ 2013. May all your effortsbe well rewarded.AU at the threshold of ASEAN Community 2015: we havealready set our curricula according to the qualificationframework in compliance to the call by the OHEC. Moreover,the development of AU in various fields must continueand we must maintain focus on the development of humanresources, in particular the development of our facultyand staff, and the development of our students. Weare preparing our students to live in the 21st century, in theASEAN Community and in the globalization process. It is theAll the best and May God bless you.Rev. Bro. Bancha Saenghiran, f.s.g., Ph.D.PresidentQuestions such as the one I have just raised are in the mindsof leaders across all spectra of society. Over the past fivemonths the world has witnessed two momentous abdicationsof power, Pope Benedict XVI and Queen Beatrice ofthe Netherlands. Both leaders have stepped aside to pavethe way for newer and younger leaders. While criticsmay express exasperations at leadership “falling short” ofKitti Phothikitti, Ph.D.Dean, Graduate School of BusinessDean, Graduate Studies02 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |03

Message from the Director Office of Graduate StudiesDear Students:Welcome to all new freshmen students in 1/2013 intakeon May and all readers of the GSB newsletter “Connect”.Over the past few years we have introduced manynew services such as the iTouch and Learn Systemthrough which students can access class content liveand stream contents wherever and whenever theywant, a data SIM to access the internet nationwide,the online-petition system, iApp, which provides userswith useful information relevant to their study at ABAC,and the latest one is our eBook Store, which offers freemagazines for IOS and Android devices.With this new semester, we have introduced manynew services such as online petition, another channelof wifi @ A. Bldg. under OGS, exclusive data sim packagefor all ABAC students by AIS and True, new upgradeversion of iApp for IOS, etc. Students can enjoythese new kinds of services and our E-Bookstore is stillserving students with new updated nation newspapersand magazines “Free” for all graduate students.Additionally, academic is our aim for excellence. Weare transforming our way of teaching from lecturebased to workshop and case study approach. Mostof subjects are gradually adapting and we hope studentswill learn more in a practical way rather thantheoretical way.It is our goal and mission to give students the best possiblestudy environment in order to support them ontheir life-changing path. Therefore we will always continueimproving our systems and services with the aimto make ABAC more than a center simply for teachingand learning.We very much welcome any feedback on our servicesand new improvement from the students’ point ofview. We aim to provide better and better academicservices to our students uniquely and exclusively. Wewelcome on your comments towards our newsletterfor improvement in the next issue. We intend to havenew issues every trimester. Please feel free to contactthe Office of Graduate Studies directly if you need additionalinformation.Soonthorn Pibulcharoensit, Ph.D.Director, Office of Graduate Studies>>>Student’s CollageWhat is Effective Leadership?Emi KaiwaJapaneseAge : 29 yearsMBA Tourism ManagementCareer Goal: Working in UNWTO“Think Globally, Act Locally! An ideal leader should be ableto work with people at the bottom with a broad view oforganization.”Carlos MunarFilipinoAge : 26“Guide the people towards righteousliving, peaceful coexistence,and evasion of anything evil or corrupt.”Vishal RajanIndianAge : 27MBA Tourism ManagementCarrier Goal: Entrepreneur“Effective leadership is the key toefficient work management andproductivity and it is all aboutgetting the job done no matterwhat the variables are.”DEEPAK DAVISAge : 21“Leaders are those personswith some qualities like,• Goal Oriented,• Flexible,• Innovative,• Responsible,• Predictive,• Competent,• Motivating,• Learners,• Broad minded, and• Develop Humility.And have skills like,• Interpersonal Skills, and• Communicative Skills”Tony AntonyIndianAge : 23“As with most popular sayings, thereis some truth in the adage, “Greatleaders are born, not made”. Tosome extent the capacity for greatleadership is innate. However, learninghow to be a more effectiveleader is within everyone’s grasp - nomatter how many people we lead.Some pointers that could help us becomeeffective leaders are:• Self Assessment• Sharp Perception• Responsiveness to group’s needs• Knowing the organization• Think in terms of “We” not “I”• Take time to recognize and rewardpeopleAccording to me, these would makea leader more effective and thuslead to the smooth and efficientfunctioning of an organization.”04 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |05

Recent ActivitiesMBA Study Tour in EuropeGSB International Network: SheffieldHallam University, UKThe Dean of Graduate School of Business,Dr. Kitti Phothikitt and Mr. Vanvisut Veeravan,Director of ABAC Study Abroad visited the SheffieldBusiness School, Sheffield Hallam Universityin UK on January 29, 2013. The Sheffield HallamUniversity is one of GSB’s international partners.GSB is launching the MBA Double degree programsin the academic year 2013.GSB Induction Day and Freshmen Seminar 3/2012This semester GSB welcomes 200 freshmen to join the MBA (Day), MBA (Evening), MBA Fast Track (CityCampus and Hua Mak Campus), MBA Weekend Track, MBA Professional (Day), MBA Professional (Evening),MBA Double Degree, MBA Exchange and MBA Tourism Management. The Induction Day was heldat the Auditorium, Hua Mak Campus on Sunday, January 13th, 2013.Speeches were given by Rev. Bro. Bancha Saenghiran, f.s.g., Ph. D. (President of Assumption University),Dr. Kitti Phothikitti (Dean, Graduate School of Business), Dr. Soonthorn Pibulcharoensit (Director, Office ofGraduate Studies), Dr. Kitikorn Dowpiset (Associate Dean, Graduate School of Business) and Mr. Glen V.Chatelier (Director, Office of International Affairs).The Freshmen Seminar out-going was organized by senior students and GSB staff on 23-24 February 2013at Holiday Inn, Pattaya where students and faculty members enjoyed ‘Team Building’ activities and ‘BySri ceremony’, a Thai welcoming tradition together.Creating a productive field-trip: A partway towards becoming a professionalinternational communityThis semester (3/2012) GSB organized an 8-Days 5-Nights field-trip for a group of MBA students to theCzech Republic – Germany - Austria during 20 – 27 January 2013. The trip was led byDr. Witsaroot Pariyapraset and Dr. Chittipa Ngamkroekshoti. The field-trip served as an opportunity forthe students to experience the business communities abroad, enable students to explore new territories,cultures and people.City University of Seattle Welcomes Students from Assumption UniversityGSB Top Executives Attending the “Strategy, Decision Making and Change forTechnology” at University of Oxford, UK on March 12, 2013Dr. Kitti Phothikitti, Dean, GSB and Dr. Soonthorn Pibulcharoensit, Director, Office of Graduate Studiesattended the Workshop amongst Top Executive Leaders of IT leading businesses in Thailand, i.e., TrueCorporations, AIS, SPV Group. This workshop was organized by the Said Business School, University ofOxford in UK.GSB International Network:University of Westminster, London, UKRev. Bro. Dr. Banchan Saenghiran, Presidentof Assumption University and Dr. Kitti Phothikitti,Dean of Graduate School of Businesswelcoming Executives from University of Westminster,London, UK : Dr. Myszka Guzkowska,Pro Vice-Chancellor and Jon Pike, Director ofPostgraduate Studies at Assumption University,Suvarnabhumi Campus on March 27, 2013. Theaim of the visit was to strengthen future mutualcooperation between GSB and the Universityof Westminster and to enhance Joint programsand double degree programs in the nearfuture.Back Row: Mr. Vanvisut Viravan,Dr. Kitthi Phothikitti, Dr. Kamol Kitsawad andMr. Glen ChatelierFront Row: Dr. Myszka Guzkowska, Rev. Bro.Bancha Saenghiran and Jon PikeAcademic Laurels and Palms 2013Assumption University takes great pleasure inhonoring our Senior Administrators and Lecturerswho have rendered services for over 25years, through “Academic laurels and Palms”on 26 April 2013 at the Grand Salon, St. Paohaels’Hall, Suvarnabhumi Campus, AssumptionUniversity of Thailand.Congratulations to Dr. Thongdee Kijboonchoo,our senior lecturer in Economics from GSB whoreceived this award conferred by the Universitysignifying the honor and glory won for greatachievement. This award of achievement is inthe form of a decoration, a medal specially designedfor this occasion.From left: Dr. Kitti Phothikitti, Dr. Soonthorn Pibulcharoensit,Mr. Rangsan Traibutra, Dr. ThongdeeKijboonchoo, Dr. Kittikorn Dowpiset, Dr.Ismail Ali Siad and Mr. Glen B. Chatelier.This quarter, CityU has had the pleasure of welcoming first students pursuing an MBA degree under theauspices of a joint degree program between City University of Seattle and Assumption University, oneof the most prestigious private universities in Thailand. This program, spearheaded by CityU’s School ofManagement, affords students from Assumption University the opportunity to transfer to CityU after theyhave completed four MBA classes at Assumption. The remaining 12 classes are taken at City Universityof Seattle. In addition to two universities, one of CityU’s recruitment partners in Thailand is also involvedhelping Assumption University spread the word about the program among prospective students and assistingthem with the necessary paperwork, visa acquisition, and with travel and housing arrangements.Currently, the Associate Dean of CityU’s Schools of Management, Tom Cary, is meeting with a new batchof prospective students at Assumption University and we hope that in the new future we will have theopportunity to welcome more students from Assumption to Seattle.Speaker of the Month: Brandingin Asia as Value Creation, with aFocus on ThailandGraduate School of Business, MBA Programinvited Mr.Vikram Rao, Head, Acrylic FibreBusiness and Overseas Spinning Businessand Director, Aditya Birla Management CorporationPrivate Limited as a guest speakerto share his ideas and experiences for MBAstudents on “Branding in Asia as Value Creation,with a Focus on Thailand” at AssumptionUniversity, Hua Mak Campus on 27 February2013 at the Salle d’ Expo06 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |07

Effective Leaders>>>Life in ThailandLeadershipThe LargestWater Fightin the WorldTerms of “Leadership” are often used interchangeably with “Manager”where it is two completely different roles. Manager are facilitatorsof their team member, to make sure that teams is moving asaccordance to an ultimate agreed objective. They ensure that theirmember have every tool necessary to be productive and successful.On the other hand, leader may or may not have a formal authorityto lead the team. Leader can be anyone on the team who coulddemonstrate the particular talent, also, has an experience in certainaspect of the business; “Somebody whom people follow: somebodywho guides or directs other”However, there are no templates for a leader style to fits all. Often,leader must adapt their individuals to comply with specific groups.For example: In some circumstances. When there is little time toconverge on an agreement and where authority has superior expertiseon the subject; An Autocratic Leadership style may be mostsuitable. While, in a highly motivated team that consist with varioustype of specialist, democratic / Lasses-Faire style would be moreeffectiveThere is no doubt that the world’s largest water fight can be no other than Thailand’s Songkran festival.This religious festival from April 13-15 of every year marks the traditional New Year for Thai people accordingto the lunar calendar. For those that have taken part in the water fight, we have to admit thatit’s an amazing festival filled with fun and excitement. It’s so fun that I haven’t missed this water fightfor at least the last 15 years.AutocraticLeadershipUnder Autocratic leader, alldecision making power arecentralized. Where, leadershave a complete powerover their people. Leaders donot entertain any suggestionor input from subordinate.The benefit of autocraticleadership is that incredibilityefficient, decision aremade quickly to make sureto gets work done as soonas possible. The downside isthat team member has littlevoices and minimum initiative.Therefore, this style oftenleads to high level of staffturnover. Donald Trump ofTrump Organization could bean example of modern autocraticleadership.DemocraticLeadershipDemocratic leaders makethe final decision, however,they often involve the membersin the decision makingprocess. They value teamcreativity, and members areoften engaged in projectsand decision. The benefit isthat team member tends tohave high job satisfactionand often demonstrates productiveresult. Yet, becauseparticipation takes time, thisapproach are slow-decisionmaking but often result inpositive outcome. This approachis not suitable wherespeed or efficiency is essential.For example, during crisis,a team can’t waste valuabletime gathering people input.Also, some team membersmight not have the knowledgeor expertise to providehigh quality input.Laissez FaireLeadershipThis is a French phrase mean:“Leave it be” and it is describinga leader who allowstheir team member to workon their own. Subordinate aregiven a free hand in decidingtheir own policies and methods.This approach often motivesense of creativity andinnovation. This leader stylecan be effective when membersare experiences, skilledand self-starter. Good exampleof this type of leadershipis Benjamin FranklinBureaucraticLeadershipBureaucratic Leaders work“by the book” They tendto follow regulation strictlyas also to ensure that theirmembers do as well. This styleof leader is appropriate forwork involving in a serioussafety risk. Such as: workingwith machinery or work thatrequire precise outcome. BureaucraticLeadership alsouseful in organization whereemployees do routine taskare doesn’t require any flexibility,innovation and creativity.Best example is: Battlefield solders.Edit by:Narachai TreetipbutBrand Management,Bosch Power ToolRobert Bosch Co., Ltd.Like many festivals around the world, theyounger generation seems to be losingthe real purpose of these festivals. Festivalsin many cultures around the worldtend to have something in common; it is atime for family members to reunite. Songkranin Thailand is no different. Yet, manyincluding myself seem to overlook thispurpose of the festival and go straight tothe fun side of splashing water with friendsalong with having a few drinks.Could it be that the younger generationThais is becoming more disconnectedwith family members? Or is it becauseof the commercializing of Songkran thathave attracted both tourist and localsinto turning this ritual festival into more ofa 3-day non-stop party. Having traveledto many places around the world and experiencingtheir cultures, I came to noticethat it is still very possible to preserve ritualfestivals in this 21st century while still enjoyingthe commercialization atmospherethat the festivals bring. A good exampleis Christmas (or what they call the WinterHolidays now) in the United States. Christmasis still very much a time where familymembers travel short or great distancesto unite for a few days and enjoy theirtime together as a family. Families spendtime together making Christmas dinnerwhile kids enjoy the lights and atmospherethat December brings. Those thatcan’t visit their families will spend qualitytime with close friends and less time ata mass social gathering. Filipinos are anotherexample of being connected withtheir family as they tend to travel back tobe with families every weekend even if itmeans traveling for 3-4 hours at a time.I’m deeply touched by this effort andcommitment they make to spend timewith their family.Even though the Songkran brings in positiveeconomic benefits for the countryespecially to the tourism sector, the pointto consider is whether this gain comparedto the lost in cultural and social values isworth the trade-off. I personally believethat the cultural and social value is moreimportant than the economic gainsthrough tourism. Songkran should be promotedas a time where families unite atone’s house to spend quality time talkingabout the year, preparing food together,making merits under the Buddhist teachings,and with some fun in splashing waterin the village. It should be less abouttraveling great distances just to be at“the” place where everything happenssuch as in ChiangMai, Pattaya, on KhaoSan Road, or on Silom Road.Being connected with family membershas been in Thai culture for centuries andan inheriting trait in all Thai people. Theidea of valuing and respecting seniorsor elders is cherished in Thai society. Theamazing festivals filled with joy, happiness,and in-depth history can be experiencedthroughout Thailand. So let’s allre-think about our Songkran plans andsee if there is anything we can do to helppreserve this cultural festival; let’s makethis a “real” family Songkran year.Written by:Michael McDanielEast-West SeedProduct-MarketCombination Manager08 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |09

Student InterviewCan you describe your study experienceat ABAC?I will simply say that I am learning a lotthough my expectations were much higher.Can you describe anything in ABACthat you think should be improved?There is an African Adage that goes:“Fear of a friend can make one eat poison”.Well, there are several things thatnot only need improvement but an entireoverhaul; but I guess that is for the Administrationto figure out! Don’t get me wrong,there are as well many things that are impressive.>>>University AnnouncementsAndrew Amone BagumaNationality : UgandanHometown : KampalaMBA Program : MBA- Tourism ManagementBatch : 35How long have you been living inThailand?I have been living in Thailand since thestart of May 2012 till now, though I returnedto my country Uganda for a monthduring the Christmas holidays.What similarities and differences doyou see between Bangkok and yourhome town/ country? Can you giveus some opinions about what youlike and dislike about Bangkok?Well, the only similarity between Bangkokand Kampala is the traffic congestionjust like most cities, only that Bangkokhas more vehicles, whereas Kampala hasfewer and on narrow roads.But where the two differ so much is thatKampala is one green city with lots of hillsand therefore giving it several sceneries.Located at the shores of a fresh waterbodycalled Lake Victoria, it is blessedwith very cool breezes that make it sofreshening. On the other hand Bangkokis quite flat and hot but with lots of manmadeattractions.Why did you choose Thailand andthe program at ABAC? (e.g. internationalorientation, English as mediumof instruction, Trusted brand, OGSservices)I had been coming for business trips inBangkok since 2006; I liked the place anddecided that I would pursue my MBAhere. It was easy for me (through word-ofmouth)to zero down on ABAC since it’san International and Catholic FoundedUniversity!What is your major and why did youchoose it?The Tourism Industry in my country Ugandais still virgin per se and just beginningto grow compared to neighbouring Kenyaand Tanzania. This motivated me totake up a career in tourism so that I canbe part of its development back home.The beauty about tourism is that; whereasother industries offer products and services,the tourism industry offers “experiences”that will always be memorable inone’s life. And today, tourism is probablythe fastest growing industry in the world!In your major of study - what do youwant to see more and what do youwant to see less (e.g. tutorials, guestspeaker, out-of class activities)Tourism is about travel and so we need topractically go to these attractions moreoften and feel part of them. Further, I thinkthere are hardly any debates or share ofopinions during the classes.What services provided by OGS doyou like? (e.g. coffee break, ebook,and website)I like the top-to-bottom communicationfrom the administration to the students!Besides your study, do you have apart time job? If yes, in what area andhow often do you work?Apart from checking on the small Familyimport business once a week in Pratunam,I do not have any kind of job. But Ido volunteer teaching (English and CompetenceSkills) at a Refugee Centre everySunday afternoon, and looking for morecharitable work to do if any.Can you describe the business fieldthat you are interested in?Tourism is a dynamic, wonderful and adventurousfield to get involved in, and youget to interact with people from all walksof-life!To use one word, it is Fantabulous!What is your plan after graduation? -Is there anything you do to prepare toreach that plan?My long-term plan is to become a MultinationalTourism Operator advocatingfor green travel/green holidays, and I recentlyregistered a limited company backhome called “Green African Tours”, thenwill see how it goes from there. But in theshort-run, I would like to pursue PHD studiesif funds allow!updates of Study RegulationsTransfer of CreditsOnly grades ranging from “A” to “B+” in graduate courseswith similar course descriptions and credit hours as those ofABAC are transferable. Twelve credits can be considered fortransfer. These transferred credits are not computed in determiningthe Cumulative GPA. The Dean or his authorized representativehas the authority for approval of transfer of credits.After completion of 12 credit hours, MBA (Day or Evening)students may participate in the Exchange Program with universitiesin Europe or the United States that have student exchangeagreement with Assumption University.Changing SectionStudents are required to study and fulfill the attendancerecord (the University’s policy requires students to obtain aminimum of 80% class attendance in order to be eligible forexaminations) only in the section they have registered for.Furthermore, full-time students would only be allowed to registerin day sections and part-time students are to register inevening sections, except for courses that are offered for bothsections.If students want to change the section, they need to ask thepermission from both sections (previous and new section). Ifboth lecturers sign the petition form and the dean agrees,students can change the section.Students who wish to register the course across the sectionsneed to obtain the Dean’s approval prior to the registrationof the course.Adding and Withdrawing CourseCourses may be added or withdrawn during the first twoweeks of each trimester with the Dean’s approval. Studentswho believe that they are not prepared for the final examinationmay withdraw from a course provided they do so atleast 15 days before the date of the first final examination ofthat trimester.28 th Graduate Research Conference atAssumption UniversityImportant reasons to attend the NGR Conference:• You will have a chance to see different styles of PowerPoint presentation, which will be useful for your own future presentation.• You will have a chance to see how other graduate students present their final projects or theses on various topics. This will giveyou many great opportunities to improve the standard andquality of your own project and research work in advancebefore delivering your final defenses• You will see in advance the whole procedures of what you dohave before completing a research in a real life environment• You will meet people who might do research on topics similar toyours, and hence you can learn from many of them to improvethe weak points of your research project.• You will be able to see different styles of oral presentation, andthen, you can select, adapt, modify their styles to improve or fitinto yours.In short, in only about half a day, you will learn all the above,whereas it might take you many hours to learn it by yourself, or inclassesABAC receiving NGR Conference FlagOn 28th February 2013, theofficial handover ceremonywas held, during whichDr. Vorapot Rucktham,representing the Dean ofABAC Graduate School,received the flag to be theorganizer of the 28th NationalGraduate Research Conference from Naresuan University.The Conference will take place from 28th – 29th June 2013 atABAC Suvarnabhumi Campus.010 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |011

GSB VoiceWho will winthe election onMarch 3?First, I must mention that I have utmostrespect for all the polls’ outcomes so far,which I must say, I also come from thesame background. However, my studyused a slightly different approach, whichI believe was more sutiable.I reviewed relevant literature on electionsextensively, and then, gathered all of theexisting and relevant models to compareand contrast in order to build a most suitablemodel for the upcoming Bangkokgovernor election.At the end of the day the ‘blue’clan will prevail over the ‘tomato’clan with a comfortable margin.Maybe, with 60-40 per centvote-sharing exhibited, I predict.This article was published in the last week of February, 2013 in the Nation newspaperAfter carefully testing the newly ‘constructed’model, my statistical analysesshowed that the model was significantlysupported, which means I had found an interestingpattern of ‘how Bangkok peoplewould vote in the 2013 Bangkok governorelection’. (My study was carried out a fewmonths before the election - around mid of2012 - to ensure stability of the results).Fast forward to almost the election day,I was quite certain after looking at howthings were going in the last two weeks ofcampaign and before election, I believemy model was still very valid for explaininghow the voting phenomenon for thegubernatorial election will be, so I nowpublish my findings again (the first time Ipublished it was right after my study and Ionly wrote it in general).Now, back to my governor race’s prediction,my model predicted that all theindecisive voters as well as the decidedvoters would behave according to thepattern it had found.What is this pattern? It can beexplained by using three conceptualisations.First, the ‘issue’ conceptualisation,for this, my model discovered thatpeople would consider three mainthemes: 1) policies focused on‘quality of life’, but only in a fewcertain aspects, 2) policies on theprevention of delinquent behaviourand 3) characteristics of thecandidates (I analysed this hypothesisby using Factor Analysis).Further, in all the issue’s sub-themes,people will specifically look for 13sub-items, my findings clearly purported.For example, when peopleexamine characteristics of candidates,‘knowledge and honesty’traits will be the only two importantsub-items majority of people willprefer in general. I did this analysisby using multiple regressions.Then, I used my model to predictwhat would happen to the twobig weight candidates in the race- the ‘blue’ and the ‘tomato’ candidates.30%25%20%15%10%5%0%Regarding the first conceptualisation(‘issues’ on the quality of life,prevention of different types ofdelinquent behaviour and characteristicof the candidates), after afew weeks of campaigning performance,I can safely conclude thatboth candidates/parties - “the blue” vs“the tomato” - are more or less on equalpar with the blue slightly better.Now, come to the second conceptualisation,in most previous studies, it had beenproved that whenever one of the candidatesreruns for the same post, he/she wouldhave a certain amount of ‘loyalty’ votes(which is roughly 10 per cent more from themain opponent candidate).Why? The answer is tied with ‘theory onswitching cost’, or the risk/benefit of takinga new alternative. And looking at adistance on the current campaign trailsup to now (almost the end), it is obviousthat the switching ‘cost’ to a newcomercould still be slightly higher when comparedto the benefit.Thus, for the second conceptualisation, Icould ‘scientifically’ assert that the loyaltyvote will still stay with the ‘blue’ clan.The last conceptualisation - the normalcurve, most polls, if not all, were basedon mathematical principles and the conceptof ‘normal distribution’.However, my study was a bit different as Imentioned, it was based on a ‘behaviouraldeduction’ model and then comes theYEAR OF RESIDING IN BANGKOKMore than 21 yrs. 0 - 3 yrs. 4 - 6 yrs. 7 - 10 yrs. 11 - 20 yrs.COMPONENT PLOT ROTATED SPACEComponent 2-1.0-0.50.0-0.5-1.0-1.0-0.5A40.0Component 1E6F5D4D5C2C5C4C11.0 1.0Component 3mathematics. This means, if the ‘normalrepresentation’ of Bangkok population(all walks of life come out) take place onthe day of the election or in the everydaylanguage ‘a big turnout’, the model willcome true together with loyalty votes instrength.Why? Because the normal probabilitycurve will strengthen the whole phenomenonthat my study had predicted, whichmeans the scale will tip into the blue’sfavor (it was widely believed then thata big turnout could be expected for thiselection).In sum, as I mentioned at the beginningof my article, I can predict with a certainlevel of comfort that, at the end ofthe day, the undecided voters as well asthe decisive will vote the way they will(according to the model my study hadfound) and the ‘blue’ clan would win.Could we change this voting phenomenonbefore it happens? It is rather difficult.Why? The flaw lies in the fundamental ormain campaign strategy of the tomatoclan - the smooth cooperation with thegovernment. My study clearly showedstatistically that it would reduce votesrather than increase it.0.50.50.0-0.5-1.0Why, one might ask? With closescrutiny, my model hinted thatBangkok population would‘only’ consider policies thatdeal with social issues, and notthat much on the political oreconomic issues for this election.Why, one might ask further?I simply think because peopleperceived that it was not thedirect concern of the governor’sduty to prioritise, or focuson economy and/or politicalissues first.Lastly, one might ask, whydidn’t I talk about other candidatesin my published article?Well, my model also illustrated afew independent candidateshave very valid policies definitelyworthy of being elected.But, however one might like tovote for them, the fact of life is- winning an election is also anart, not just pure logical thinkingor science (of management)alone.These independent candidatesneeded to know ‘what’ gainsvotes from the public, whichmay or may not be the same as‘how’ they want to run the city.‘Running’ only comes oncethey have been elected, whichis again different from gaining votes.Further, many candidates promised bigchanges. For this, my model clearly saidthat people don’t like them. You mightask again, why?. Well, if you are an organisationaltheorist, you would haveknown that ‘change; is the hardest thingto accept among employees in any organisationsin general, due to the factthat it required behavior’s modification,which most people don’t like.Now, come to the last and very importantquestion, why all the pollssay, or predicted things ‘completly’opposite from mine. I am very certainone of the answers lies in thefact that the questionnaire that mostpollters used were not valid, that iswhy they got the wrong answer! (Thisis the most subtle, but it is very commonproblem in all types of studywhich is very difficult to spot).Written by:Dr. Vorapot RuckthumMBA Lecturer(Individual Research)012 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |013

In tribute to His Holiness Benedict XVIRev.Bro.MartinPrathip KomolmasPresident EmeritusOn February 27,2013 the wholeworld said goodbyeto the Pope, leaderof 120 billion Catholicsworldwide.Though there havebeen debates anddiscussions on whythe Pope chose toresign, the clear factremains that evenas he stepped downfrom the Office ofBenedictXVIthe Pontiff,he honoredalso displayedthe importanceof thedignity in steppingaside when job and rolehe perceived his of the Pope,inability to carry in acknowledgingthatthe burden ofhe was notleadership anyphysicallylonger.able anylonger tocontinue as leader. Benedict XVI alsodisplayed dignity in stepping aside whenhe perceived his inability to carry the burdenof leadership any longer. His dignityand honor in resigning is reinforced by hischoice to serve his church as a reflectiveleader through leading a life of seclusionin prayer and meditation. Truly, Benedictthe XVI has chosen a mature path asleader: to step aside when he feels his inabilityto deliver according to his dutiesand responsibilities any longer. Historywill indeed remember his leadership rolein this.Transition to New leadership in the Catholic Church:Emanating frommeetings at theVatican for theCollege of Cardinals,from March6-9, 2013 and thesubsequent Conclaveof 115 Cardinalsat the SistineChapel, on March13, 2013 after fiverounds of secret ballots Pope Francis I waschosen to lead the Catholic Church forward.The former Cardinal of Argentina,of the Order of the Society of Jesus andof Italian descent, the 76 year old Pontiffmade an immediate impact on theCatholic Church, and on the world.Opining that his brother Cardinals hadgone to “the ends of the earth to choosehim, Pope Francis told the cheeringcrowds of faithful at St. Peter’s square onthe evening of March 13, 2013 to pray forhim and for Peace. Later in the week,in a meeting at the Hall of Pope Paul VI,he greeted the gathering of hundreds ofinternational journalists, telling them thattheir work as media people paralleled thework of the Catholic Church, to seek theTruth. Pope Francis I also envisioned thathis leadership as Pope would be over “thepoor Church for the poor.”Pope Francis, taking His Pontifical namefrom the 12th Century Francis of Assisi maywell be a leadership answer to the Catholics,and to the world at large, a piouspriest with the verve for being practicaland down to earth.Glen ChatelierDirectorThe Office of International AffairsAssumption University of Thailand018 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |019

Speaker of the MonthA Student Reflection by Sumit SharmaPeter Pigram is Australian and despite spending mostof the last 25 years working in Asia, the United Statesand Europe, he maintains homes in both Australia andThailand. Peter has lived and worked in Thailand fulltimenow for the past ten years – and will be here at leastanother ten years!Peter’s early career was as an electronic technicianwith the Royal Australian Navy, where he trained andworked in sonar guidance and finished in guided mis-Mr. Peter Pigramsile systems. He became a specialist advisor to othercountries Navy’s and finished his deployment as a partof the Royal Australian Navy Trials and Assessment Unit.Peter also completed a 4 year degree in Electronic Engineering.Afterwards he joined Memorex and Unisys, initially asa technician; but later moved to sales and marketingas a career change. In this new role he found time tostart and complete his second degree, Commerce,part time over 7 years. All subsequent jobs have beenin Sales and Marketing, either as a Country Manager,Regional Manager or Divisional Manager – and all in IT.After working with AIT on a large IT project from Australiaover 18 months; Peter decided that he liked the lifestyleof Thailand and after some investments in Thai IT, movedhimself to live and work here. Peter finds Thailand a dynamiccountry to work in – and would like to see it growto become a central hub in IT in South East Asia.As a new student at AssumptionUniversity my mind wasfully buzzing looking at thepossibilities prior to my firstspeaker of the month programin February. I wantedto hear new things, meetnew people and generatenew ideas, looking towardssomething to take backhome with me in the formof a great and investableidea.The speaker of the month for the monthof February 2013 was Mr. Peter Pigram, anAustralian who despite spending most ofthe last 25 years working in Asia, the UnitedStates and Europe, maintains homesin both Australia and Thailand. Peter haslived and worked in Thailand fulltime nowfor the past ten years – and will be here atleast another ten years!It was a great pleasure to meet Peter. He isa very charismatic speaker, and was veryinvolved in the keynote that he gave. Unlikeother speakers I’ve encountered atvarious forums, he kept the pace, kept itinteractive and kept everyone interested.The discussions started with technologyand a show of hands of how many cellphones we all owned, to set the pace ofthe keynote. The discussion moved towardsthe general direction of ICT, Peterstarted out by asking us what was goingto be the most important factor in ICT developmentand growth over the next fewyears, in my head I could only think hardwareand mobile technology, but his oneword answer to his initial question, ‘Bandwidth!’,had most of us dumfounded fora while.As our lives become more technologicallydependent and we spend andshare more and more time on the Internetbandwidth is becoming a majorcommodity. As people of this generationwe have become dependent upon theInternet for everything-from watching televisionand movies, to streaming music,to interacting with our peers, to shopping.A majority of our lives is being spent onlineand high bandwidth servers power a majorityof that across the globe. There wasa time when we all used dial-up internetconnections and then we moved to cable,and now we’re all using fiber optics,in mobile computing we were using GPRS(General packet radio service), EDGE, 3Gconnectivity and now moving on into afully data stream with LTE/4G(Long TermEvolution). We are all trying to get and useBandwidth is the key totechnology and ICTdevelopment of the future.But its not the only piece ofemerging technologythere is.as much as we can of this valuable commodity.Bandwidth is the key to technology andICT development of the future. But its notthe only piece of emerging technologythere is. Big data, 3D printing, activitystreams, Internet TV, Near Field Communication(NFC) payment, cloud computingare also among the up and comingtechnological waves of the future.Our lives are not just influenced by technology;there are other socio-economicfactors that come into play. The AsianEconomic Community (AEC) 2015 is goingto bring far spread change to Thailand.It will prompt Thailand to investmore into its ICT development, especiallyin terms of bandwidth and mobile computing,but the AEC will also open a doorto migration. Thailand being one of themore economically and politically stablecounties in the region will no doubt attractworkers and wage hoarders fromlesser developed countries, in the regionlike Myanmar, Laos and countries brimmingwith populace who have a distinctEnglish speaking advantage like the Philippines.Since the Thai Labor market is about tochange, and has to change before AECarrives. Certain segments of the Thai labormarket need to adapt to new and appropriatetechnology so that they can beready for AEC 2015 and possibly negatethe onslaught brought upon by migratingworkers from less economically soundAEC partners.In closing we went on about discussionsabout where we as MBA’s are headed,and what awaits us, globally, as job seekers,entrepreneurs, social workers etc. Petertaught us about an aspect of the worldthat we take for granted, the skills of anIT professional and the ICT spectrum inits entirety, and his keynote has inspiredme to do more things in ICT in the comingyears back home.020 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |021

Special InterviewPlease introduce yourselfInterview with an InternationalExchange Student from France,European UnionChristopher GroyerMy name is Christophe. I am twenty-four( 24) years old and I come from France.I currently study for a Master Degree ofBusiness Management at EDHEC “(EcoleDes Hautes Etudes Commerciales duNord”) which means Northern School ofHigher Business Educationat the campuslocated in Lille, a major city in the northof France. Following my master graduationI would like to work in the field ofstrategy and organization consultancy.I have already done a couple of internshipin thissectoratsuch companies as AccentureandHSBC.Most ofmy hobbiesandinterestsare related to sport (I am a hugefan of Basketball), music,cinema, photography,modern art and travelling. In factI had a chance to travel a lot during mychildhoodwith my parents. I have beenin almost all Western and in some EasternEuropean countries also some NorthAfricanandMiddle-Eastern countries. Asa result one of my purposes nowadays isto keep discovering new areas - mainly inAsia and in Central and South Americawhere I have almost never been yet.How did it happen that you studiedat ABAC in Thailand?Last yearI had the opportunity to chooseanexchange program during the lastyear of my Master degree.Since I have never been in Asia beforeand it was an area in the world that intriguedmeand interested me very much;I wanted to seize this great chance. Nowadayseverybody knows that ASIA andThailand particularly deliver plenty of potentialsfor the future. However, in Europewe still do not know very much aboutdifferent cultures, ways of living andwaysof working that are part of every Asiancountry.Studying at ABAC in the second trimester2012 allowed me to receive an educationof high qualityat the university highlyrecognized in Thailand and even beyondThai boundaries.It would be dishonestifI do not admitthat the beauty andrichness of the natural,cultural and architectural heritageof Thailand weighted in my decision tocome here as well.As a result, the exchange program atABAC represented the perfect opportunityto combine a very enriching experiencebothanacademic and professionalaswell as on a personalself-fulfillment side.Can you describe your study experiencein Thailand and how itdiffers from FrenchEven if at my school in France and hereat ABAC students have the chance toget knowledge from international teacherswith very diverse nationalities but theway to study is still quite different. For instance,proceedings of the ABACGraduateSchool Freshmen Seminar are quitesymbolic ofthese differences. Receivingthe blessing from every ABAC teacher ina very solemn manner and welcomingthem in the Assumption University “family”is not what we are used to experience inEurope. In fact in the case of ABAC theuniversity is considered as more than asimple teaching institution. It is seen as anew family, defending its own values andwilling to create a very long-term relationshipwith their currents students and alumni.Then the other issue isthe organizationof the class proceedings ; quite differentin some ways from what I am used toknow back in France. For Europeans wemay havemore formal and distant relationshipwith our teaching institution andwith our teachers but at the same timethe class might be more interactive andmore based on debates and exchangesof ideas between students and teachers.What are your observations ofThaistudentsWhen I first met Thai students Ithoughttheyareverycalm, a little shy as they looklike. This impression came from thatit wasdifficult to start a longerconversation withthem-they were not extrovertenoughandwere not talking with foreign people thateasily.What I really enjoyed about Thai studentswho I metistheirstrong willing to be hospitable,to treat other people with respectand good mannersand also to be verygenerous and very helpful whenever weneedsome support.One of the other enjoyable facts is thatThaistudentsthat they are very optimisticabout life and about their future and theyare proud of their culture. Therefore, theyare very much willing to share their optimismand their knowledge of Thai culturewith us.As a result, I felt confused that Ihavethought they were a little bit distant, butI did not know before going to Thailandthat people were not as extrovert as weare in France. Now I think thatdevelopingfriendly relationships and building trustbeforegetting along with peopleismaybeeven more important in Thailand thanin France.Now an open question aboutanythingyou have foundunusualandspecial about ThailandOne it was a communication with people: Living in Bangkokit was also a veryrefreshing and very « new » experiencefor me. In fact, when I arrived in Bangkok,I was not speaking a word of Thai languageand I found out that most of Thaipeople were not good English speakers(sorry to say that…but it is what I thought).It made me think about foreigners comingto France and asking for some helpto a random French person, because weare quite famous in France for not beinggood English speakers as well. I wasexactly in the same situation at this time!Therefore, I tried every solution to manageto be understood when I needed toexpress myself in Thai: learning basic Thaiwords and numbers from a guide book,using an application on my Smart phoneto traduce – translatewords and sentences,speaking in English withmy best Thaiaccent (yes…I did try this and it was notvery efficient!), trying to speak with myhands, etc. To be honest, I know it is badand too easy, but the best solution wasstill to rely on my Thai friends when theywere with me, to translate what I was tryingto say. Plus, it seemed that my Thaiaccent was terrible according to them…which is very likely! Actually, this languagebarrier has been a very interesting experiencesince it has improved my patienceskills and I had to find innovative ways toexpress myself when I had no one aroundme to traduce my words. It even led tovery funny situations sometimes.Another -Climate:The climate in Bangkokwas also something brand new for me.The first thing I remember about my arrivalin Bangkok when I went out of the airport -the feeling of a very hot wind covering myface, like when you open a very hot oven.Actually, I got used to it very quickly andI even loved this weather. To me, there isno better energy source for people thana very sunny weather shinning in the sky.Of course, the flooding period – rainy season,was not the funniest one but it was stillintriguing since I have never experiencedsomething like this before. Once again,the most noticeable thing that came tomy eyes in these two situationscommunicationand flooding ( heavy rain) werepatience, friendliness, tolerance anda willto help and to cope with impedimentsand differences of Thai people, whereasin some other countries people wouldrather have gotten angry. To me, applyingthis ( Thai ) behavior would make lifemuch easier and much more enjoyableand optimistic in numerous countries inthe world.From your experience are thereany suggestionsfor improving internationalstudents’ life at ABAC– it may help the University withimprovementsIt would be nice to have a student associationin charge of welcoming foreignstudents, by proposing to organize eventssuch as local food tasting, cultural outingsand friendly meetings, visits in Bangkok,and so on…In fact, the goal would be to help internationalstudents to feel goodandbetterin Bangkok, to avoidbeing homesick andabove all to integrate themselves amongother Thai and other Asian students.When we are coming to Thailand, oneof our main purposes is to avoid stayingonly with other French students or westernstudents but to meet local people and tomake new friends with people of differentbackgrounds and cultures.Another service that would have beenvery much appreciated by internationalstudents coming to study at ABACis helpingthem to learnhow and where theycan look for internship and/or small jobs inThailand e.g part time and/orvoluntary.Ithink that a lot of international studentswould like to extend their stay anddiscovertheprofessionalside of the Thai way oflife after having studied there in order togain broader experience of people andcountry.Thank you very much for your effort andkindness to share your intelligent observationsand remarks with us. It will helpother students and scholars to becomemore sensitive to international studentsexpectations, communication andvaluablelearning experience at AssumptionUniversityand in Thailand.An Interview conductedby Dr. Zofia Rummel-Syska, Phd,University Professor, Instructorat Assumption university in Bangkokfor over 12 years022 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |023

SpotlightICT knowledge and skillsfor AEC: Are you ready?>>>Academic CalendarASSUMPTION UNIVERSITY GRADUATE SCHool of busIness MBA ProGRAM(Full-time/Part-time) 1/20133-10 May 2013 Registration period for Written Comprehensive ExaminationsSat, 4 May 2013Induction Day for student admission ID 561-xxxxSat, 11 May 2013Instructions begins for trimester 1/2013 (For Weekend Program)Mon, 13 May 2013Instructions begins for trimester 1/2013 (For Weekday Program)Sun, 12 May 2013 Late Final Examination for trimester 3/20126-20 May 2013 Sign up for Freshmen Seminar (561-xxxx students) at OGSSat, 20 April 2013MBA Written Entrance Examination (English)Mon, 13 May 2013 Final examination grades release for 3/2012Sat, 27 April 2013MBA Interview Entrance ExaminationWed, 29 May 2013Eligible students to take Written Comprehensive Examination announcedThu, 23 May 2013Last day to late register, adding/changing with fine and withdrawing courseswithout “W” on the transcript & to refund 50% of tuition fee(Apply for all MBA Programs)One of the most talked about topics in any newschannel is the upcoming ASEAN Economic Community(AEC). Only around 2 years away, this regionaleconomic with an approximate GDP of $2 trillion andhome of approximately 600 million people is aboutto begin. Despite the fact that there are still lots ofthings to be done, one of the most active projectsof ASEAN is about the use or development of Informationand Communication Technology or ICT in thisregion, especially when the AEC is actually started.In the past 15-20 years, everyone talks about usingICT for competitive advantages. Regardless ofthe size of organizations, it is just unlikely that someonecan manage any organization without usingany ICT today. For ASEAN, the ICT master plan hasbeen adopted since year 2011. This tells us that theICT master plan has already been put in place approximately4 years before the actual opening of theAEC. Inside the plan, there are quite a large numberof projects that have to be done since the adoptionof the plan until after the opening of the AEC.What we are interested in here is what educationalpeople should know, so we can prepare our studentsappropriately?Regardless of the number of projects inside the plan,one of the most interesting projects is the projectwhich will result in developing of ASEAN ICT SkillsStandard. Why “standard” is critical for the success ofAEC? The answer is simple. The main purpose of havingAEC is to economically join force between ASE-AN members to fight with other big guys out there.This joined force will have direct benefit to whoeverwould like to invest in this region. However, similar toother parts of the world, we somehow have differenteducational systems in our region. Therefore, weWhat we areinterested inhere is whateducationalpeopledo need a standard tohelp us to communicateand understandeach other qualificationsbefore we canbegin working togetheras a team.With regard to this ICTmaster plan of ASEAN,should know the first five areas ofknowledge and skillscovered in this projectare: Software development, ICT project management,Enterprise architecture design, Network andSystem administration, and Information system andNetwork security. Why these five fields? Consider thefive areas of knowledge and skills covered in thisproject carefully you will find that they are the areasneeded for developing most of the information systemsin any organization. This also means that peoplein ASEAN with such skills will be needed once theAEC is started. The question now is whether we areready for it? Do we have expertise in these fields? Ifnot, how can we acquire them? 2-3 years away isnot too short, but it is not too long either. Therefore, Ithink those who are studying or about to choose thefield of study now have a very good question to askthemselves, “Am I ready for any of these fields?”.Written by:Dr. Jirapun DaengdejDean of the Faculty of Science andTechnology.Assumption UniversityTue, 30 April 2013Entrance Examination Result (English & Interview)2-10 May 2013 Registration for New students (student admission ID 561-xxxx)2 - 30 June 2013 Written Comprehensive Examination15-16 June 2013 Freshmen Seminar (for 561xxxx students)17-23 June 2013 Mid-term Examination periodMon, 8 July 2013Last day to petition for late mid-term examinationSun, 14 July 2013Late mid-term examination day16-17 July 2013 MBA Online Pre-registration period for trimester 2/2013 (Only MBA Day/Evening Students)Thu, 11 July 2013Written Comprehensive Examination results announced12-19 July 2013 Period for Q & A on Written Comprehensive Examination papers(only for students who failed)2 days before exam date Eligible students to take Oral Comprehensive Examination announced1-8 August 2013 Submission of final examination papers for 1/2013Thu, 8 August 2013Last day to withdraw with “W” grade24 July - 14 August 2013 Oral Comprehensive Examination Period28 August 2013 Oral Comprehensive Examination results announced19-26 August 2013 Registration e-payment for 2/2013 trimester(manual payment period for 562-xxxx MBA Day/Evening students)19-25 August 2013 Final examination periodMon, 2 September 2013Last day to petition for late Final examinationSat, 31 August 2013Induction Day for student admission ID 562-xxxxSat, 7 September 2013Instructions begins for trimester 2/2013 (For Weekend Program)Mon, 2 September 2013Instructions begins for trimester 2/2013 (For Weekday Program)Sun, 8 September 2013 Late Final Examination for trimester 1/2013This GSB Academic Calendar is subject to change. For more detailed information please visit www.grad.au.edu024 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |025

Great EscapeMan on the moveFranceI volunteered to bringyou to know moreabout France!“if one French alone will account for Esprit (their sense of self as a soul).If two French people. (Male to Female), it would be love. If three people.It will be Revolution!” The impetuous character of revolutions fromthe past to the present never disappears from society ranging from bigrevolution 14th July 1789, then many revolutions later on in labor unions,etc. Hence France is considered as the country of the debate of ideas.Something to know more about British, German, and French people• The British think experience is considered important and knowledge.• The Germans believed that everything could be resolved. If youhave experience with reason.• The French take important of reasoning more than the fact or thetrue.Hence, when you listen to the words of the speaker and the words arecorrect• The British would say, You are right (to be) is similar.• Fritz Du hast recht (you are) but• The French Tu as raison (reason you are). Because the French havethinking that “reasonable” is “intel ligence” and that is correct.Though we have delicious food, but it dependson the quality of the wine and glass too. Whenyou choose wine, you have to consider flavor(Le goût), color (La couleur), and fragrances(L’odeur).How to drink wine1 st step is to swing the glass several times.Be careful not to spill the wine.2 nd Observe the color of the wine.3 rd Edge glass nose to smell.4 th Bring glass of wine to reflect with a light.5 th Wine will flow down the track. Themore alcohol concentration of wineis, the more frequency of the track isdropping down.6 th Let wine in the mouth, do notswallow it yet. The taste willpenetrate to all parts of the tongue.The glass with wide mouthis divided into 3 sizessmall for the white wine,medium for the red wine,large for drinking water.The tall glass with smallmouth for champagne.French cuisine is one of the best in the world.Some French cooking techniques• Baking, roasting meat in the oven.Eliminate fat from meat as well. Thefood is fresh, not greasy and it does notdestroy health.• Stir-fried or deep fried. The food will stilltaste the same. More appetizing.• Boiling considered the worst for them.Using less food ingredients for cookingand more water as soup, French considers that the host is not wealth to servefood.Some body languages that French people use when they speak1. You are fired -to chop down the hand on the arm.2. Almost worse - movement of palm upside down, plus handtwisted back and forth from left to right.3. Feeling bored at your words - put the chin on the backsideof palm.4. Do you think that I am stupid? - use the index finger pull thelower eyelid down.5. Sake of money - take your index finger and middle fingerinto the V and put two fingers touching the tooth and smile(as Dracula).6. Dirty background- the index finger and middle finger, pinchthe nose. As if the foul emanating around.Written by:Dr. VoraveePattaravongvisut(MBA Full-Time Lecturer)028 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |029

Great EscapeA Visit ofNoah’s Arkin HongKongDear Readers,One of the most famous Bible stories is Noah’s Ark.You can visit a life-size replica of the ark in one ofthe world’s most famous cities.... Hong Kong! It isnot far from city, you can reach it by taking MTRto Tsingyi Station, then you will continue with a directbus to the park.They built the ark the way the Bible describes --300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide and 30 cubits high.Many believe it was the largest wooden structureever to roam the seas. Outside of the ark, a gardenfeatures nearly 70 pairs of life-size replicas ofanimals and a few ones. Inside, the ark containsexhibits with rare animals like a nautilus, a toucanand exotic fish. Screens show animated films thatdemonstrate how the original ark could havebeen constructed and how it might have beenventilated. The exhibits also teach that the storyof a major flood is nearly universal throughout theworld’s ancient cultures. The designers of the arktell Noah’s story at the time he opens the ark afterthe flood.Students really learned a lot of things from Mr.Matthew’s speech in this fieldtrip, and also theycan adapt the marketing 4Ps of this theme parkfor their future business.See you in the next volume.030 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |031

Insight Technology4.1.2.3.5.The 34 th InternationalBangkok Motor ShowThe 2013 Bangkok Motor Show washighlighted with a concept of “Streetof Automotive Fashion” Where ergonomicengineering play a major partin developing automotive aspectsas to refine passenger contentmentand well-being. These influences areparts of innovative portion that leadto modern design as well as variouskind of product variation in respectivesegment.Motor Show is one of the major eventsthat illustrate the further path of innovationand automotive trend. Mostcar manufacturer uses this arena tofeatures technology, brand concept,promotion and also new productlaunch. However, surprisingly, Subaru,Skoda/MTM, Audi and Protonweren’t at the event.1. BMWBMW display the whole range of thereseries. As for 116i, its dimension is as similarwith Mercedes Benz A-Class. Yet, it is arear wheel drive vehicle equipped with4 Cylinder engines, 1.6 Litter that generate136 horse powers at 220 Nm. Yet, itsprice tags are still unknown. However, themost attractive car in the range is ActiveHybrid3. Mainly is because of its hybridpower; where the petrol engine comewith 6 Cylinder Twin Power Turbo; 3.0 Liter(306 Horsepower) As a result, motor andpetrol engine could generate 340 Horsepower via 8 speed automatic gearbox.It’s price tag start from 4.19 Million THB.M-Sport model are an optional with 4.39million THB.2. HondaHonda at Motor show 2013 was excitedby the new Accord (Gen9) that waslaunch earlier. Honda demonstrates newAccord positioning via a conception of“Reflection of pride” where the model offerboth petrol engine: 2.0 & 2.4 liter withfull gadget and technology (for selectedmodel) such as: Adaptive Cruise Control,Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS)and also I-Side and Side curtain airbags.Its price is competitive enough to shakeCamry & Teana market share. Price of 2.0Liter models start from 1.299 Million THB.Where its top model hold a price tag of1.79 million THBAccord is not alone in such a battle, Hondaalso boast the innovative spirit via itsnew Honda Civic Hybrid where its mainelectric power are sustain through Lithium-Ionbattery. Honda further guaranteesthe quality of its battery by extending thewarranty period from 5 to 10 years. Civichybrid comes with 2 model range; HybridStandard and Hybrid Navi. Price tag is at1.035 and 1.095 million THB, respectively.3. HyundaiAt Hyundai corner, nothing is shinier thannew Hyundai Veloster / Veloster Turbo. Asport coupe, 2+2 seat compact vehicle.The base model equipped with 1.6 Literengine that could generate 130 horsepowers. Yet, if you prefer more excitement,Hyundai also offer 1.6 Liter SportTurbo version that breed out 186 horsepower. It could be own at 1.299 millionTHB and 1.73 million THB respectively.Best sales ever, Hyundai H1 is pleasing itsfan by offering H1 minor change, MY2013model. New version will comes with extraequipment, such as: Fog -Lamp, 16inchAlloy wheel, new multimedia system,leather seat and wooden central console.H1 Deluxe is at 1.599 million THB,while H1 Executive is at 1.489 million THB(no leather seat and multimedia system)4. Jaguar / Land RoverJaguar is still in a linear stage where thereis not yet a major activity from the brand.That’s why City Automobile decided todisplay XF, XJ and XK just to please thefan. In contrast, Land Rover has more ongoingactivity from the launch of All NewRange Rover. Furthermore, there are 4sub-model listing: Diesel V6 3.0 Liter, DieselV8 4.4 Liter, Petrol Engine V8 5.0 Liter andPetrol V8 5.0 Liter Super charge. Its standardmodel starts at 10.699 million THB.While After sales Service could be donevia City Automobile (Land Rover AuthorizeDealer) Wireless road branch.5. LexusFor this year, Lexus still display their premiumvehicle in a Toyota compound. However,Lexus paraded- in their new IS rangewhich was just launch in Detroit AutoShow 2013. Only few knew of this comingIS as Lexus only announced few days beforeBangkok Motor Show.First available IS on sale would be LexusIS 300H, premium hybrid sedan that fittedwith 2AR-FSE 2.5 Liter direct injectionthat produce 181 horse power. In combinewith the electric motor, the aggregatepower output would be at 223 horsepower, transmitted through E-CVT gearboxthat adjustable into 3 modes: Normal,Eco and Sport.IS300H active safety will be controlled byVDIM – Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management.Which, will harmonize differentfunction into one central command. Forexample, the unit will balance: TractionControl, Vehicle Stability Control, ABS andEBD in the way that each function wouldwork alongside with each other to createbest result.Conributed by Dr. Santhiti Treetipbut032 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |033

Life Style>>>Fun PageCalvin and Hobbes By Bill WattersonAdam@Home By Bryan BassetThe Jim Thompson HouseCenter of BangkokThe Jim Thompson House is the home ofJames H.W. Thompson, a self-made Americanentrepreneur who was the founderof the world renowned Jim Thompson ThaiSilk Company. Thompson’s achievementsduring his 25 year stay in the Kingdom ofThailand have won him much fame as the“Legendary American of Thailand”.For his contribution to the developmentof the Thai Silk industry, Jim Thompson wasawarded the Order of the White Elephant,a decoration bestowed upon foreignersfor having rendered exceptional serviceto Thailand. Thompson’s success story inThailand has become one of the mostpopular postwar legends of Asia.In 1967, Jim Thompson went on holidaywith friends to the Cameron Highlands inMalaysia. There he set out for a walk inthe surrounding jungle but never returned.Thus began the Jim Thompson legend.Since his disappearance in 1967, little haschanged in the home that was the ‘talk ofthe town’ and the ‘city’s most celebratedsocial center’. Even today, the charmingThai style house continues to be a key stopfor visitors to Bangkok.Jim ThompsonJim Thompson was an Americanbusinessman who helpedrevitalize the Thai silk industry inthe 1950s and 1960s. At the timeof his disappearance he wasthe most famous Americanliving in Asia.Born: March 21, 1906,GreenvilleSpouse: Patricia ThravesEducation: PrincetonUniversity, Universityof PennsylvaniaJim Thompson House6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road,Bangkok Tel: (662) 216-7368Fax: (662) 612-3744Jim Thompson FarmTambol Takob, Amphur Pak Thong Chai, NakhonRatchasima, (Korat) ProvinceE-mail: farmtour@jimthompson.com orwww.facebook.com/JimThompsonFarmTourBangkok OfficeTel: 02-762-2566 and 085-660-7336Pak Thong Chai FarmTel: 044-373-116(Monday to Saturday,08.00 am – 05.00 pm)(Thai language only)Jim Thompson FarmNakhon Ratchasima, (Korat) ProvinceJim Thompson Farm Nakhon Ratchasima,(Korat) Province In 1988, to ensurea steady and reliable supply of rawmaterials for silk production, the Thai SilkCompany decided to invest in its ownmulberry plantation and silkworm eggproduction center. Situated in the PakThong Chai district of Nakhon Ratchasimaprovince, the project area initiallycovered 600 rai (about 96 hectares/237acres). This silk farming, or sericulture,which focuses primarily on the rearingof hybrid silkworms and the cultivationof top grade silkworm eggs to be sold tocontract farmers, came to be known asthe Jim Thompson Farm.The Jim Thompson Farm was opened tothe public for the first time in 2001 andhas since evolved into one of Isan’s mostpopular agrotourism and ecotourism attractions.It is open to visitors only once ayear during the peak of the cool season.The Jim Thompson farm tours provides aunique opportunity for visitors to observeup close and personal the full life cycleof the silkworms and the silk farming processas part of the Isan way of life. Otherhighlights include a tour of the vegetableplots and ornamental plant nursery. Agreat variety of delicious fresh fruits andorganically-grown vegetables come intoseason at this time of year. In addition tocut flowers and ornamental plants, a selectionof fresh, high quality, organic vegetablesand fruits and wholesome farmmadesnack foods are also available onsale at the farm.Contributed by Dr. Santhiti TreetipbutDilbert By Scott AdamsPooch Cafe By Paul GilliganThe Buckets By Scott StantisNon Sequitur By WileySUDOKUComplete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 boxcontains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.Solutions are available at www.facebook.com/abacgraduateCredit : The Nation Wednesday, 2012034 | CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013CONNECT GSB Newsletter May 2013 |035