There is a misconception that students admitted to the GEP become arrogant. On the contrary, my experience in the GEP was humbling. The GEP's enriched curriculum made us realise that there was still much for us to learn. We discovered there were others - in the GEP or otherwise - better than us in various areas. The teachers constantly told us to reflect on how we could improve.

Extensive group work made us more cooperative and sociable. Projects taught us to be independent and creative. Challenging assignments and tests allowed us to learn to persist and, at the same time, accept failure.

The fact that the typical GEP classroom was so competitive only made us learn to look beyond marks, scores and aggregates. We learnt to appreciate the fact that everyone can contribute and make a positive difference in his or her own way.

I believe what the GEP curriculum and teachers taught me has made me a better person. I have since completed my primary education in the GEP, but my takeaways from the GEP will continue to stick with me as I grow and learn.

Chua Jun Yan