A little while ago, Dorian visited us together with fellow Alumna Sophie Deden and we had a chance to learn more about his time at GESS.
What has your learning journey after GESS been like?
After leaving GESS at the end of grade 11, I went on to do my A-levels at Insworld institute. Once that two-year journey had ended, I was obligated to serve the Singapore National Service. This is a mandatory commitment for all male Singapore citizens, as well as permanent residents. The two years gave me the time I desperately desired (at that point) to figure out my educational and career goals. I went on to complete a bachelor in business and environmental science (with a major in aquaculture) at James Cook University Singapore.
What is your favorite memory of your time at GESS?
It’s hard to pick just one, however, some of my fondest memories were probably of playing handball during our lunch breaks. Another one which comes to mind is the freedom we had during our art classes with Mr Marcus Landseer to express ourselves and our creativity.
What do you miss most about your time at GESS?
This might be a relatively generic answer, but I miss having no other obligations besides going to school and just enjoying myself with my classmates and friends.
Did you have any favourite spots on campus or in Singapore?
On campus, my favourite spot would have to be the forum because it was a common space where we could socialise with everyone regardless of grade or age.
My favourite spots in Singapore would have to be Scape at Orchard and the hawker centre at Holland Village. These were venues where people from other international schools would come to, therefore it was a great space to meet new people and make new friends.
Do you think your time in Singapore and your time at GESS had an impact on your life?
Definitely! GESS, as well as Singapore, has always been a place with a lot of diversity where you can meet people from all parts of the world. If you’re introduced to other cultures at a young age, you develop a more open and accepting mindset.
What did you learn during your time at GESS that you learned to appreciate in hindsight?
It’s not something I’ve necessarily learnt at GESS, but I’ve never been a fan of the policy to wear uniforms in school. It always felt very restrictive and I couldn’t understand why such a rule existed. This is also the reason why I enjoyed, and was always looking forward to, casual days. Over time I’ve learnt to appreciate this though because having to wear a uniform eliminates a lot of the prejudice and judgment one might feel towards others. When everyone is dressed the same, you instinctively visualise them as equals and therefore remove a lot of the biased opinions you might have had towards them, just because they’re wearing some luxury brand or conversely, more affordable clothes.
Is there any advice that you would like to share with our current students?
Enjoy the time you have in school! Once you grow up, those will be some of the fondest memories you will have. These are the years when you have the freedom to explore what you like and enjoy doing. Try out different CCAs and you never know, it just might become a lifelong hobby. Don’t stress too much about what will happen after you finish school, you can worry about that later. Attend your classes, meet new people during the weekends, and try to make the best of it!
