Lauren Stephens

My biggest achievement thus far, and I hope there will be many more, is founding my own company. After working freelance for a few years I founded “Musical Theater Society Berlin” in January 2019 (Age 21). MTS is an English-speaking amateur musical theatre society based in the centre of Berlin. Every year MTS gets stronger, the problems change and I am learning to fight new fires every day. 

Despite academically preparing me, the biggest things I learnt at Rossall could not have been taught in a classroom. Being a part of too many activities to even count, especially the CCF, taught me immense time management skills. Working full time and running my own company definitely requires precise planning. I was also involved in a variety of activities such as Chapel Choir, Chamber Choir, Jazz Band, CCF, CCF Band, Orchestra, Hockey, Drama (Acting & Musical Theatre), Dance Club & Farrell Society. 

I started working with the OR committee during lockdown by producing and editing the first virtual OR carol service. Being part of this very special community doesn’t just mean getting a fancy badge or tie (although these two things are definitely worn with pride). I find it really interesting and exciting to be part of this OR network. Even after having left school, I meet people with whom I have something in common, but may have not necessarily known in my time at school. I also really appreciate the connections I made at school with the teachers. It is really nice to use what I learnt at school and then discuss this with my former teachers at OR events or just keep in touch with them via email.

The first few events for the Rossallian Club when you are a student are reduced in price and will give you so many opportunities to interact with ORs of all ages. It’s also a really good step-stone into the real world and can be a really helpful guide. The German dinner was the first OR event I attended just after having moved to Germany, and it gave me a sense of comfort somewhere abroad; it also made me feel like I’m never too far away from someone I know. I have been to three in total; two in Munich and one in Hamburg. It is great to meet up with some former teachers, like Dr Dohmen, as well as some of the OR committee and school representatives. I have quite a few friends in Berlin who I either met at school or at the German dinners. 

In terms of my advice to anyone considering studying at Rossall, take every opportunity by the hand. Dr. Winkley said to us on our first day “Rossall will be what you make of it”. If you take every opportunity possible and immerse yourself fully in the “Rossall Culture” it will be the best time of your life, whether your passions lie in academia, the arts or sports.