You may have seen Enfei’s artworks at various places in and around GESS. Not only is this 12-grader an artist, she has been participating in many activities as part of her school life. We chat with Enfei on how she manages so many interests and talents.
Hi Enfei, introduce yourself, and tell us what are some of your hobbies in and out of school.
I’m a DP student in Grade 12, European section, and I started my GESS journey all the way back in Grade 1. Academically, I love all my classes, especially physics, math and chemistry, which are my Higher Level subjects. Outside schoolwork, I engage in creative hobbies throughout the week: oil painting, aerial silks circus dance, and theatre. This year, I’m one of the choreographers for our high school musical Spongebob!
We know you are an avid painter. Share with us how you got started on this, and what inspires you?
I started painting before I could write, inspired by observing the world. Now, I’m focusing on extending my fine art foundation to different styles and send messages important to me. I’m constantly inspired by everyday occurrences, interactions, relationships, and what they reveal about the human condition. I believe the most effective art is universal.
Two of my works are in an international digital exhibition (Almenara Art Prize) and recently entered the semifinals for the ARC international realism competition. Another one will be exhibited at the Ngee Ann City Atrium from the 7th to 20th of October (2024 edition of the TRCL Art Prize). Additionally, I’m organizing an art exhibition at a senior home, made up of artworks by young artists at GESS. These opportunities bring me confidence and joy as I strive for my art to resonate with others in the school, local, and international community.
Not only do you paint well, we see that you have been participating in a number of things at GESS. How do you manage so many interests and pursuits, alongside your school work?
It is important to enjoy everything you do or be able to derive meaning from it. I try to immerse myself fully in all opportunities that come my way and aim for growth above excellence. This outlook, combined with developing my time management skills and hard work, helps me manage it all without feeling burdened. In stressful periods, it can be hard to engage with other activities or remain positive. During these times, discipline and purposeful prioritization are crucial to keep going, which is difficult!
You are in Grade 12 now. How is this graduating year different from the past? What are your main challenges in school, and how do you manage them?
In the final year of IB, there is more pressure on test scores, deadlines, thinking about the future, yet simultaneously more opportunities in my extracurriculars. Therefore, the main challenge is balance. Having a positive support system of family, friends, classmates, and teachers helps us all cope with this challenging time.
What kind of support do you feel GESS gives you, in terms of your schoolwork and also your pursuit of interests? What are some of the things you enjoy about school life at GESS?
The teachers are extremely understanding and supportive of our learning, always ensuring that each student is valued and can succeed. For example, the extra DP support lessons, university guidance, and how each teacher is willing to provide help after lessons. Throughout my time here, I have always been able to engage in different opportunities with no barrier to entry, such as science fairs. I love how students’ interests and initiatives are also accommodated. For example, the theatre club at GESS supported me to perform aerial silks for the Addams Family musical last school year!
Lastly, what would you say to other young people in GESS about optimising the opportunities available here?
Don’t be scared to try something new, or to create something new. Only by trying your best in every endeavour can you discover your passions.
