Joined EMS: 2019
Former School: Dawlish College
School Type: 11 – 16 state school
County: Devon
Studied in addition to Maths and Further Maths: Physics
I collect and use vintage cameras, dating from 1910’s all the way through to 1990’s. I’m quite the nerd when it comes to both digital and analogue photography. I also enjoy doing traditional art, and nerdiest of all, cosplay. This is where I dress up as characters, which includes me sewing and creating costumes, styling wigs and doing complex makeup that takes me hours. I have some very creative hobbies to say the least.
I am a transgender male, and I feel that it’s important to share because I have been so accepted and supported in EMS, and although I’ve never had issues, I know that if I did that it would be sorted. Being transgender and out can be very scary when meeting new people, as you never know how people will react, but EMS is one giant safe space and you are able to talk to anyone if you have to.
I honestly couldn’t pick one highlight because the whole journey so far has been so much fun and I’ve learned so many new skills, met so many great new friends, and achieved things I wouldn’t have if I were anywhere else. However if I had to pick one highlight, it was coming in for my first day and fitting right in.
Some particular advice for applicants coming from state schools who fear not being clever enough: I initially got rejected because my grades didn’t meet the entry requirements. However, after getting them re-marked, I came in three weeks late. Despite this, I have never felt out of place or like I was behind everyone. If I (not being a particularly talented student, but a hard worker with a passion) can fit in just fine, then you will too.