Mara Ratoiu

I graduated from IBSB in 2012 after being part of the first generation of children to complete a full academic cycle (year 1-13) at the school. I enjoyed my time at IBSB and still look back on it with fond memories. I was surrounded by inspiring teachers that helped me discover what i was passionate about and then aided me in exploring the subjects of my choice, in depth.

Apart from academic achievements, during my time at IBSB i undertook a series of responsibilities such as being yearbook editor, prefect and head of my Community Action Service team at the IOMC hospital where we took care of abandoned and chronically ill babies. This taught me responsibility, leadership skills and most importantly, how to efficiently, and successfully, work in a team.

What I did at University

For my A-levels i took Art, French and Mathematics and moved on the study a BA(Hons) degree in Interior Design at the Glasgow School of Art in Scotland from which i graduated in June 2016. I currently live in Bucharest and work at a multi disciplinary design firm that specialises in Interior Design, Product Design, Architecture, Graphic Design and branding.

In what way did you experience at IBSB help to shape you into the person you are today?

IBSB taught my that there is something new to learn from any person I meet, to never settle and always push my boundaries and always question and challenge what I don’t think is right or fair and fight for what I believe in.

Please provide a brief description of some of your treasured memories from your time at IBSB.

It would be hard to pick only a few memories from 12 years at IBSB. i enjoyed having turtles to teach us responsibility in year 2, enjoyed all the school plays i was a part of, i enjoyed IGCSE biology revision sessions which often included take away and a lot of gene discussions. I have many treasured moments and am glad to still be in touch with some of the people which made them happen.

Which IBSB teachers stand out as having a positive impact on your education?

All of my teachers played a crucial part in shaping the person i am today and had a positive impact on my education. However the few that stand out and i will always love dearly are : Miss Rigdon – my Y2 teacher, Miss Osgerby – My Y4 Teacher, Mrs. Broadhurst – Art, Miss Senzaconi – Biology and Mrs. Hingley – French.

What skills developed at IBSB proved most useful post-graduation?

Definitely the communication skills I developed while at school. IBSB provided me with the confidence to speak my mind and do so with valid and informed arguments while also accepting and understanding other people’s points of view and reaching a constructive and efficient middle ground. This i believe is key in my current job.

What subjects did you study at A Level?

Art, Mathematics, French

Which University/Universities did you graduate from/will your graduate from? What Degree/s did you receive/will you receive?

Glasgow School of Art, Interior Design BA(Hons), Class of 2016

What are you doing now?

I am a hospitality Interior Designer in London