Elite schools or not, does not matter - PM Lee

I strongly agree with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong when he said, "... You don't have to go to the best schools in Singapore or the most popular school in Singapore in order to get ahead." Of course, many might argue about the teaching methods and that the range of unique programs and ciriculums offered in elite schools are much wider as compared to neighbouring schools, but i still feel that learning boils down to an individual's attitude. You can have the best programs and teachers available, but still fail to perform if you take them for granted and are not willing to learn.

I have read many awesome life testimonies about those who came from humble backgrounds, who attended low profile neighbouring schools and are yet able to reach the highest peak and achieve the same outstanding results as those in elite schools. Their testimonies have greatly encouraged and inspired me including this young man's testimony here.

Daniel Poh (above, right) 21, a former ITE (Institute of Technical Education) student, and now a Singapore Polytechinc (SP) Biomedical science student was being selected to complete an internship at the Harvard University's medical school. It was at ITE, where he was enrolled in a biochemical technology course, that he found his calling in science research. He has then emerged top in his course with a perfect grade point average (G.P.A) of 4.0. Today he has a satisfying G.P.A of 3.6 in Singapore Polytechnic and together with his strong passion and willingness to learn about biomedical research, the school has given him this rare opportunity to complete his internship at the Harvard. It is indeed such a privilege.

In closing, i feel that everyone has the equal chance and ability to do well and acheive. Elite schools or not, it does not really matter. What is more important is how much are you willing to set aside time to understand, practice and learn, how much determination and will-power you have inside, and how strong your passion is for learning. If you believe, there is always a way.
The only limitation and barrier is when you decide to give up.

Commented by: Rebecca Ho Tsuey Zhen (107063N)
Sources:
http://www.asiaone.com/News/Education/Story/A1Story20100614-221993.html