How competitive are you?

"I always compete with my peers, be it academically or in the athletics, because I feel that a person can’t achieve what he wants without having a competitive spirit. Before going for classes, I would read notes and Google for extra information to prepare for the day’s lecture. When training for competition, I would do my best to exceed myself to achieve the best results. I would also carry out extra training for myself after attending team training."

– Nor Shaza Izyan, 19, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Campus, Muadzam Shah, Pahang

"I’m not competitive academically but when it comes to things I’m interested in, especially

gymnastics, I train my hardest and perform my best to make sure that the hard work I’ve put in would not be in vain. Being competitive is important in all fields but it shouldn’t wear you down too much that you’re obsessed with achieving just one goal in life."

– Celina Yeo, 17, SMK Infant Jesus Convent, Melaka

"I’m a competitive person. I believe that competition helps make a person less cocky or boastful of his achievements. I usually compete with people who are egoistic just to show them that they can be outdone by others, so long as everyone puts in hard work."

– Esther Chin, 17, Taylor’s College Subang Jaya, Selangor

"I’m competitive in academics and sports. I try to be the best on the field, for it shows that I’m not just doing things out of enjoyment, but with a definite aim in mind. Whenever exams are around the corner, my friends and I will challenge one another to claim the top spot in class. The person who obtains the best result will be treated to a meal. This has helped me a lot. If I’ve failed the first time, I will work harder to do better the next time."

– Brandon Chong, 17, SMJK Yok Bin, Melaka

This article was published in the Newspaper in Education (NIE) pullout by The Star Newspaper dated 19 July 2017