Alumna Spotlight: Roopal, Class of 1993

1. What are some of your fondest memories from your time at Leicester High?

My favourite times at school were daily chats about life with my closest friends, whilst we sat on the stairs by the gym. And playing hockey in Evington Park every week during winter was memorable for all the wrong reasons - but getting cold, wet and muddy certainly built up our resilience!

2. Were there any teachers or lessons that particularly inspired you?

Our Maths teacher, Mr Joannou, was one of the calmest, patient and most approachable of our teachers. Everyone loved him, and although I didn’t continue studying Maths, I went on to marry a Maths teacher, so luckily Mr J’s lessons didn’t put me off Maths too much!

3. What path did you take after leaving LHS, and where has your career taken you since?

I graduated in Marketing with an amazing industrial placement at British Airways. I had the opportunity to fly on Concorde and gain experience at the ‘world’s favourite airline’. After University, I was lucky enough to return to BA and build my career in various commercial roles, including in Sales, Marketing, ba.com and the travel trade website. I loved working for a global brand, making lifelong friends and travelling to far-away places. After 20 years’ service, I decided to move back to Leicester and now work as an Equalities Communications Manager for NHS England in an extremely rewarding role, working with underserved communities.

4. How did your time at the school help prepare you for life and work beyond?

I was raised to become an independent, well-mannered and confident person throughout my school and home life. We were taught how to work well together as a class and develop organisational skills during self-learning, which proved invaluable in my career and life in general. I learnt how to present myself well to others and not be afraid to speak up for what I believe in. And my strong work ethic and approach to challenges are a reflection of the strong foundation and high standards that LHS gave me.

5. What advice would you give to current Leicester High students?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learnt in life is to stay true to yourself. Don’t feel pressured to be someone you’re not and be proud of who you are. Enjoy being young, carefree and live for the moment instead of getting distracted with things that may come your way. Say ‘yes’ to every opportunity you’re offered, as everything you do will give you something back. Relish the moments with friends and loved ones, as time really does fly by. And trust me, the memories you make now will be ones you’ll cherish in years to come.

6. You mentioned being part of the first group to take GCSE IT in 1991 — what was that experience like, and how has technology shaped your career since?

My Dad was ahead of his time when it came to technology and was keen for us to understand how to use computers at home. So I put my name down right away when LHS offered IT as a GCSE subject in 1991, and was one of just 9 students trying the subject out for the first time. I went on to work in website functional support and create online content at BA, so our Commodore 64, as well as school, definitely sparked my interest in all things techy.