Alumni Members

I started at KES Academy in 2015 and attended KES Academy Sixth Form until 2022. I was part of Gloucester Windsor, and my favourite subjects throughout my time at KES were History, English Literature and Sociology. I am currently studying History at Kings College London.

How do you feel that your time at KES shaped you and the current path you’re on? 

I think my time at KES gave me a solid foundation to be able to build from when I reached university. KES helped shape my confidence, thirst for knowledge and learning and further developed my love for history. It was overall a memorable time that I will never forget.

What was the most important learning point you took with you from your time at KES?

I learned many things from my time at KES but one of the most important learning points was to never give up and really put yourself out there. I was always a person that had my life planned out and I thought there was only one singular path for me to take. However, that is not the case: plans change and the path you thought you were heading on will throw obstacles at you and will not be straightforward. So, you should never give up and embrace the uncertainty, as scary as it is putting yourself out there like that is worth it and even better than whatever plans you might think are certain.

Did you always know that you wanted to pursue History? In what ways were you supported at KES Academy to pursue this path?

I originally planned on always studying law at university and I ended up applying for law when the time came around. KES helped along the way by providing me support when writing my personal statement and access to different schemes and opportunities that helped me develop my application and interests. They were always a great source of advice and information. I ended up getting an offer from Kings College London to study history and although I received other offers to study law from other universities that I applied to, I decided that I really wanted to go to Kings College London and study history. This was a decision that KES fully supported and helped me make, along with developing my love and interest in history as well.

What have been some particular personal highlights for you so far since leaving KES Academy?

Since leaving KES I feel that I have grown immensely. It's difficult to pick particular personal highlights because so much has been absolutely incredible. I have gained more independence, been able to meet some amazing people, made friends from all around the world, explored and fell in love with London. I found a real place of belonging at university, continued to expand my knowledge, break out of my shell, gain valuable work experience and so much more. Everything after KES has been a highlight for me personally.

What would your advice be to young adults looking to pursue a similar path to yours?

I would say it is important to be ambitious and set high goals. Do not give up because something goes wrong or because you suffer a setback, believe in yourself, and keep working hard. Hard work is an essential part of life, so have that drive, and determination and it will take you far.

What are your hopes and aspirations for the future?

In the future, I aim to be a lawyer working in the corporate and/or commercial sector for one of the world's best law firms. Before that I would like to do a master's degree after I finish university.