Is the perception of private university students really that bad? Entered a traineeship together with other trainees from local U. They seem to outcast me because I am a private uni graduate?

Yes there is, and it's not just your peers who will do that, your bosses will. My company (a GLC) literally pays people from private universities (about $300) less than NUS/NTU.

So yes, there is discrimination, but there's nothing much we can do about it

Not sure if it is just early in the traineeship. Some have mentioned that it could be due to the others being acquainted in the local universities. I am sure that you have experienced being in a new place or new school or new class. There is usually a warm up period to get to know everyone.

Focus on what you can control. Tune your mindset and be open to getting to know the others. You may find that things might not be as what you thought.

Hi Anon, like what the others have mentioned, it might not be because of your private uni. It is probably because they have things or experiences in common that allows them to click more easily. For e.g. local uni students that stay in hostels have alot more topics to talk about, as compared to private uni that doesn't stay in hostels.

I think you can try to take the initiative to talk to them on other topics like hobbies etc! Good luck!

They may not be excluding you just because you are a private uni grad but because of other reasons e.g. diff unis have diff experience so they weren't able to talk about something that everyone can empathise with.

As for your question about the perception of private uni grads, it may depend on the company. Some do care about the actual uni attended while others only care about the degree. As for what other people think, who cares! Anyway, whichever it is for your current company, this traineeship is where you can shine. Do your best! Cheers.