I think what really made my time at RGS was the people. I’m a massive people person, and the people I met along the way were so instrumental to my experience - many of whom I’m still in touch with, both staff and fellow students. I was also very fortunate to have so many opportunities come my way and so many people encouraging me. From RAF to sports, mentoring, amazing trips and leadership roles, I was able to try lots of different things and experience so many exciting opportunities.

There were also some incredible teachers who shaped my path. Ms Godbold, Mr Cline and Mr Collins in the geography department showed me parts of the world through classroom lessons that sparked my interest in nature, people, and the delicate balance between the two, which really came to life for me on our Belize field trip. Mrs Garcia and Mrs Robinson were instrumental in helping me progress through RAF, which was brilliant for my leadership development. Pippa Smithson helped me see that when things don’t go to plan, it can actually open up new and exciting opportunities. But most importantly, Dr Lawson is the reason I studied biology at all. She sparked my curiosity, encouraged me to question things, and most crucially, told me to do what I enjoy. I was (and still am!) notoriously indecisive, and when my original plan changed, she simply said: “Just do what you enjoy.” I genuinely wouldn’t be doing what I am today without that advice.

I haven’t always wanted to work in conservation. I think I always knew I wanted to do something exciting and make a difference, but the path wasn’t straightforward. At one point I wanted to be a pilot - I loved CCF and the idea of travelling the world. I also came very close to becoming a doctor and even applied to medical school, as I liked the idea of combining science, people and making a difference. But in hindsight, it wasn’t quite the right fit and it’s worked out for the best. My interest in conservation developed more gradually. The first time I considered it as a career was on the Belize trip, and then at university I found myself drawn to modules on wildlife and conservation. Field trips where I could experience it first-hand really cemented that this was what I wanted to do.

I was very ready to go to university - I’ve always loved learning and was excited by the independence. Sixth Form was great preparation: we had more control, higher expectations, and were treated more like adults. Debate was encouraged, and different opinions were welcomed. But was I fully prepared? Honestly, no, I don’t think anyone ever is. Leaving the “safety bubble” of school is a big step, but RGS gave me the academic foundation and life skills to grow in confidence and take responsibility for my own learning.

I always dreamed of travelling the world, and I still pinch myself that I’ve been able to do that. I’ve seen incredible places and wildlife, but conservation isn’t all sunshine and safaris. There are tough realities - conflict between wildlife and communities, and the heartbreak of poaching. At times it can feel like progress is slow, but conservation does work. What always stayed with me was a sense of hope, largely because of the people I met, especially local communities doing amazing work to protect nature for the future.

Community is absolutely vital, both in conservation and in life. In my work, we focus on community-led approaches, where local people are at the forefront of protecting nature. In many ways, RGS felt similar. We were supported by friends, teachers, mentors and family, and that network really shaped our journeys. It’s true what they say: it really does take a village.

The Reigatian network has also been important. At the time, I didn’t know anyone working in conservation, but that’s changing now, which is exciting. More broadly, my network has been invaluable for mentoring, advice and making connections - it really helps open doors and new ways of thinking.

A huge part of my role now is actually about people. Teamwork, communication and conflict management are all essential, whether I’m working on conservation projects or operational roles at the zoo involving visitor experience and safety. Skills I developed at school - like written communication through the Pilgrim - are still incredibly useful. I’ve also learned that the best leaders are compassionate, kind and people-centred. Those qualities are sometimes underestimated, but they’re crucial. School isn’t just about exams, it’s about becoming a well-rounded person, learning how to work with others, valuing different perspectives, and understanding the importance of teamwork and inclusion.

That sense of community really stays with you. So many of us are still close to our RGS friends, we went through such formative years together, and that creates strong, lasting bonds. There’s a shared sense of connection and belonging that goes beyond just the school itself.

Abi's Top Tip

My top tip would always be the same advice Dr Lawson gave me: do something you enjoy. Life changes quickly, and it’s too short to do something you hate. But I’d add to make the most of every opportunity. Ask the question, even if you think it’s silly. Go to the lecture on your own. Reach out to people. Be curious and try things, it’s just as important to discover what you don’t want to do as what you do. Careers aren’t always linear, and the job you end up in might not even exist yet. Focus on building transferable skills and being able to talk about them with confidence. I’ve already changed industries twice, and that adaptability has been key. I spent a long time lacking confidence and battling imposter syndrome, but the truth is, most people are figuring things out as they go. Sometimes not having everything planned is the best thing that can happen, because then everything becomes an opportunity, if you’re open to it.