Time at GESS
I spent a few years of my primary school years at GESS from 1971 or 1972, till 1975. I graduated from high school later, in Braunschweig, at the Raabe School.
What has your learning journey and career been like after GESS?
I finished primary school in Bebelhof, Braunschweig, followed by secondary school and high school in Heidberg, Braunschweig. After graduating from high school, I studied at the university of applied sciences for 2 semesters and then did an apprenticeship as an industrial clerk. In 1994 I got married and in 1996 we moved to Munich where our daughter was born. I still work for the company I moved to Munich for, a large American semiconductor distributor, and have taken on various tasks there over the years. Currently, I am a project manager there.
What is your favourite memory of your time at GESS?
I always remember my time at the school fondly, especially the building itself…and my teacher Ms. Smith’s cookies.
What do you miss about Singapore and your life here?
I miss the Singapore of those times as a whole, but the heartbreak has lessened after my last and second visit with my own family. I miss the Singaporean way of life, the multicultural coexistence – although as a Lower Saxon I have had similar experiences in Bavaria. 😄
Did you have any favourite spots in Singapore?
Our home in Ming-Teck Park and the former version of the C.K. Tang department store (Christmas was a pure spectacle!).
How do you think your time at GESS has impacted your life?
It has impacted my life very much, I often still feel like a Third Culture Kid, even if that’s gradually fading.
What did you learn during your time at GESS that you could not appreciate yet during your time there?
My lunch box and the food from home (Kinder chocolate bars were only available when there was mail from Germany and that was very rare).
Is there any piece of advice or any experience you would like to share with current GESS students?
Enjoy the time, take photos and keep a diary… memories are so incredibly precious.
You are a GESS Alumni and would like to share your memories of GESS with us? Please email us at alumni@gess.sg. We would love to get to know you!
