Leonie Haecker is an example that not only students come and go at GESS, but some students spend their entire academic journey at GESS. Leonie came to visit GESS and her former teacher, Mrs. Christiane Kübler, and we took the opportunity to ask her about her time at GESS and her life after.
How long were you at GESS?
I have spent my entire school years at GESS. From enrolment in 2003 in the toddler group – then still at the Bukit Timah campus near Swiss Club – to my graduation in 2019 – which I completed at 2018’s new GESS campus at Dairy Farm. During my time at school, I have seen many teachers and students come and go. I have learned to help new students settle in at GESS and in Singapore, but I have also said goodbye to dear friends. These experiences make it easier for me to socialise and settle into a new environment quickly.
What did you do after your school days at GESS and where do you live today?
After my A-Levels, I first went to Brazil for a two-month internship. It was a stark contrast to the orderly life in Singapore. It was a very interesting experience for me to get to know the country and the people better. After that, I travelled around Australia and Asia for three months with a good friend. My curiosity to discover other countries is certainly shaped, among other things, by my childhood in Singapore, where you encounter different cultures every day.
After so much adventure, I have been in Rosenheim since April 2020 and am completing a dual study programme in marketing management in Munich with a market research company.
What did you particularly like about GESS?
We had a great class community back then and a very good relationship with almost all our teachers. I still enjoy visiting the campus and former teachers when I am in Singapore. I also have very fond memories of the exciting class trips. We went to India, Bintan and Tioman, and learned a lot about the places and different cultures. At the same time, we had a lot of fun with our friends. A very special highlight was certainly our graduation trip to Tokyo.
Is there anything you miss about your time at GESS and Singapore?
The first thing that comes to mind is the delicious food. The hawker centres were a great opportunity for us to experience a variety of Asian cuisine and try new dishes. What I also miss most today is the security and freedom of going home at night without any worries. What I probably don’t miss were the very long school days and the little free time we had apart from school.
Did you have a favourite place in Singapore?
It was always nice to meet up with friends in Holland Village on Saturday nights. I also have fond memories of Marina Bay and of course Clarke Quay for partying.
How did your time at GESS influence your life?
Through my time at GESS and in Singapore, I got to know different cultures, religions and the traditions and festivals associated with them. This has educated me to be a cosmopolitan person who can approach other people with curiosity and without prejudice. An advantage that will certainly be of great help to me in my further professional life.
