The nicest thing anyone has ever written or said about me:

"Harriet is an exceptional student and always has been. During her time at school I was constantly amazed at her capacity for learning and ability to reflect at an extremely profound level. Her ambition is only tempered by a leaning towards humility on her part and the result is a young woman who would be an asset to any educational establishment. For as long as I have known her, Harriet has enthused about a career in medicine and has a natural curiosity of the sciences. 

Our discussions about her possible career options would always come back to her working with children, possibly as a paediatrician, and I believe she has exactly the right personality and temperament to work in this field or indeed any career linked to medicine and/or serving others. Harriet is able to articulate her strengths and weaknesses and clearly knows how her particular skills could be best utilised.

Academically, Harriet has excelled at all subjects from the sciences through the humanities to the expressive arts. Her love of philosophy and ethics was always evident both in her written responses and in class discussions and she has an excellent command of language, both oral and written. When it came to narrowing her option choices she was genuinely saddened at having to leave some studies behind and all subject areas wanted her to specialise in their field. In exams Harriet was always able to achieve at the highest level due to her desire to do well and her tenacity to master a topic. In lessons Harriet was able to adapt to a variety of learning experiences. She could work independently or as a team member and was equally happy as leader, spokesperson, scribe or observer.


Harriet has all the necessary skills to succeed in higher education – most of which she possesses naturally but all of which she has worked hard to develop over her school career. She has excellent time management skills, an ability to research and communicate information accurately and coherently, thoroughly developed evaluative skills and a natural curiosity which motivates her to learn and discover more about any topic. Harriet is completely au fait with her own personal learning styles and uses these to good effect. On the few occasions when she doubted her ability she would not ignore the situation but seek advice on how to manage her feelings and was mature enough to listen to and act upon the advice given. Harriet has the self discipline to challenge herself and work through any problems that arise. She does not accept that something can defeat you; rather, her philosophy is that there must be a better or different way to achieve success. This quality alone has resulted in Harriet being a real inspiration to those around her and has helped her to achieve her personal successes to date.

Although Harriet’s love of learning meant that school work was always a priority she will also be remembered by her peer group and school staff as one of those pupils who was a true ambassador for the school. Her time management skills meant that she was able to immerse herself in the extra-curricular life of the school and play a full part in its programme of drama, music, charity work, pastoral support for younger students and the student voice. She always had and continues to enjoy an active social life outside of her studies and has a loyal friendship group who also view her as a most valuable member of their community. Her personality is such that she makes friends easily and is well respected by everyone. She has excellent pastoral skills making her a good listener and quick to discern what lies at the heart of a problem. She is a good mediator and counsellor which both come from her ability to empathise with others. Students have spoken fondly of Harriet’s caring nature and ability to help them “sort things out”.

In conclusion Harriet has always been and will continue to be an excellent student who will be an asset and inspiration to any organisation."

I hope I can live up to this!!! 

xxxx