We recently caught up with RMS Alumna, Ruby Williams, who shared her inspiring journey post-school. From finishing her A-Levels at RMS in 2022 to winning the Rising Star Award at Savills’ Apprentice Awards 2024.
When did you leave RMS for girls and what did you go on to study and where?
I left RMS for girls in 2022 and joined Savills in the September after receiving my A-level results. I’m currently at Savills completing a Degree Apprenticeship in Graphic Design, working as a junior designer within Bids & Pitches while completing my Bachelor of Arts in Digital Design at Newcastle College.
How well did your time at RMS prepare you for your apprenticeship?
RMS instilled in me the mindset and determination needed to pursue a degree apprenticeship, despite the challenges and effort required for each individual application. The supportive environment encouraged me to focus on what I enjoyed and where my strengths lie, which played a crucial role in preparing me for this path.
Could you describe your journey since leaving RMS? What have you gone on to do and what are your plans for the future?
After leaving RMS, I joined Savills following the summer, shortly after receiving my A-level results. From December 2021 through to 2022, I applied to a wide range of apprenticeships, completing assessment tasks, interviews, and office visits whilst preparing for my exams. When I received my offer from Savills I eagerly accepted and dove straight into a creative role in a corporate environment, joining the in-house design team within Bids and Pitches. In the October, I began my remote degree in Digital Design with Newcastle College. I’ve just completed my second year, earning a first-class, and will start my third and final year this September, marking the completion of my apprenticeship. While I’m still uncertain about my future plans, I know I’ll continue pursuing graphic design, as I’m passionate about the creative it allows and the endless opportunities for learning and growth.
It gave me the confidence to choose an alternative route to university, knowing it was a better fit for me. Additionally, the structured approach and deadlines at RMS helped me become more productive, enhancing my time management skills and ability to prioritise tasks effectively.
What advice would you give to current students at RMS thinking about their next steps beyond school?
My advice to current students would be to focus on what path is best suited to their strengths and passions, without being influenced by the choices of others. I encourage them to make decisions based on where they believe they will thrive. And it’s incredibly important to not let fear hold them back; taking the next big step can be intimidating, but it becomes much easier once you’re actually in it, and they are absolutely capable of succeeding!
How did it feel winning the Rising Star Award at Savills’ Apprentice Awards 2024?
It felt great, I was thrilled to receive recognition for all the work I do behind the scenes. Winning the award has been incredibly motivating and has inspired me to take on new challenges and continue striving for improvement.
Our alumnae are a vital part of our vibrant RMS community. Whether you were a boarder in the 1940s, a recent leaver, or somewhere in between, we would love to connect with you. Please send us your details using the alumnae connect form to stay in touch.