I joined ESMS in August 2014 when I entered into S1. I had attended my local primary school but had siblings who had gone to ESMS as well and decided to apply for the school. I was fortunate enough to be accepted and luckily was offered a full bursary as I grew up in a single-parent household with my mum working as a nurse. I felt the impact the school had on my education almost immediately; although daunting at the time, being in a school which provides a high pressure, yet supportive, environment and requires high standards really pushed me on in ways that I don’t think I would have received had I not come to the school. I remember finding it intimidating being surrounded by so many high-achieving students, however I have found this to be a vital learning curve which has served me well in my adult life and has instilled a solid grounding of self-belief and perseverance.

I am now in my second year studying Scots Law with French Language at the University of Glasgow and am currently preparing to move to Clermont Auvergne University in France for my third year. I owe it to the high-quality education of the school and the teachers who instilled a love of learning into me (and the discipline to do my readings!) that I have been able to do this degree. Through the school, I was able to obtain a work experience placement at State Street, an investment bank, and French Duncan, an accountancy firm. These placements really inspired me in my career aspirations, particularly for a look towards working in the financial sector and I am incredibly grateful for these opportunities.

Without bursarial support I would not have had any of these opportunities and I am completely indebted to the school for the scope and drive it has offered me coming into my adult life.