When were you at GESS?
I was at GESS for a total of seven years. The first time was from 1972 to 1976, after which I went back to Germany for three years, and then returned to Singapore and GESS for another two years from 1979 to 1981. In 1981, I graduated from secondary school. At that time, we were the first class who had to pass the examination in front of a representative of the German Ministry of Education. This automatically qualified us to go to a Gymnasium in Germany to continue with the Abitur.
What was your career after GESS and where do you live today?
After I finished secondary school, we moved with my family to Braunschweig, where I did my Abitur. I have always had a great affinity for purchasing. Trading was and is still one of my strengths, which is why I first decided on an apprenticeship “Industriekaufmann”. A degree in business administration and commercial law then opened the doors to many positions in small and large companies for me. I have now been living and working in Switzerland for over 17 years. Since my love for tropical weather, the sea and palm trees continues to this day, I have a second residence in Hawaii.
What are your fondest memories of your time at GESS?
The most precious memories of my school days are friendships that have lasted until today. We had small classes, extremely motivated teachers who took time for us and who taught us many life skills in addition to our regular lessons. My maths teacher, Mr Roy, was also the head of the theatre club and said after the performance of “Arsen und Spitzenhäuptchen”, in which I played one of the main roles: “If only you were as good at maths as you are at theatre!!!!”
For us, it was also particularly nice that we could move freely in a safe environment and that we made many friends outside of school with children from all over the world.
What do you miss most about your time at GESS and in Singapore?
Definitely the food! I miss the opportunity to try so many different dishes at affordable prices. I have been looking in vain for a hawker and chicken satay skewers in Switzerland.
Did you have a favourite place in Singapore back then?
I can think of two places where we spent a lot of time. One was the CK Tang Shopping Mall on Orchard Road, where we met to “hang out”. We also loved to meet at the roller-skating rink atSentosa and go for a ride while listening to music.
How did your time at GESS and in Singapore shaped your life?
I think my time in Singapore helped me become a cosmopolitan and curious person. My intercultural competence enabled me to lead international teams very successfully and without prejudice. I am still interested in other cultures today, and if I had to move to another country tomorrow, it would not be a problem for me, but an exciting new adventure.
What did you learn during your time at GESS that you may not have appreciated at the time, but now consider an important experience?
Not to be afraid of something new. To simply approach people without prejudice, no matter what country they come from. But also, not to forget your own culture. For example, German festivals such as Christmas were an integral part of our school year at GESS.
Finally, do you have any advice for our students?
Be open-minded, think outside the box, try things out, stay in touch with friends from back then and above all, enjoy every moment!!!!
