It all started in a classroom with Caecilius est in horto

Last September, my year flocked back to SHS in force to celebrate ten years since we left. We soon – for better or for worse – slipped back into our 18-year-old selves. In fact, new canteen aside, it felt like no time had passed. The event was a reminder of just how much fun and support we had at the High School.

After leaving SHS, I studied Classics at Cambridge, with a year abroad in Italy. I was then fortunate enough to spend a few years in Rome pursuing a Master’s in Roman Archaeology before returning to Cambridge for a PhD on Roman eating habits and cooking pottery. Last September, I left Classics behind and began a Law conversion in London, with the goal of becoming a barrister. Looking back, there are three ways in which the High School has shaped my path.

First, an enormous shout-out to the teachers. They went above and beyond to encourage us to think and engage with our subjects beyond the syllabus. Learning Latin set me on a path I could never have imagined.

Since leaving school, I’ve spent most of my summers in an excavation trench in the middle of the Italian countryside, working alongside a fantastic team to uncover the Roman town of Interamna Lirenas. During my Master’s, I even had the chance to dig right opposite the Colosseum! These experiences have been life-changing, and it all started in a classroom with Caecilius est in horto.

Second, the High School constantly pushed me beyond my comfort zone – and taught me that was a good thing. It turns out, they were right.

Public speaking was something I found terrifying, but the experiences I was given at school showed me that I could do it and what was more, that it was quite fun. Since then, I’ve presented at academic conferences, given university lectures, and am now pursuing a legal career that revolves around public speaking – who would have thought?

Third, SHS showed me that there’s more to life than academics.

Organising our Leavers’ Ball gave me the confidence to take on even bigger events at university, where I got involved in organising my College’s end-of-year ball for thousands of people, complete with fireworks, famous artists, and a drone show. Meanwhile, sports at SHS instilled the belief that there are no limits to what girls can do. This mindset stayed with me – I took up women’s rugby during my Master’s, and it was muddy, tough, and completely brilliant.

Our reunion was a reminder of our shared experiences, connecting us long after we’ve left. I’m looking forward to seeing where the next ten years take us – and the next excuse to return to SHS!