George Meagher
George Meagher took a gap year after his GCSEs at Magdalen College School, and went to a French boarding school. Not only was this his first time away from home – there was also the language issue.
‘Sport's a kind of international language’
At the time, he'd only taken a GCSE in French: "It felt as though I couldn't really say anything."
But within weeks, he found himself beginning to make friends and develop his language skills.
The power of sport
George has always been a passionate sportsman – and it was sport that helped him get to know his French schoolmates:
"Sport's a kind of international language. It was a great icebreaker."
As a result, he now has good friends in France with whom he remains in contact. Indeed, he plans to return for a few days before December's French aural exams to get a bit of last-minute practice.
‘Since France, I've been a totally different person.’
A lifechanging experience
His experiences in France changed his outlook on life substantially:
"Since then, I'd consider myself a totally different person."
George joined d'Overbroeck's Sixth Form to take his A levels – he's currently in his final year, having achieved A's in Business Studies, French and Biology AS exams, and a B in Geography.
George's thoughts on d'Overbroeck's
George thinks that he's become more focused and proactive during his time at the College:
"There's more free time – so you have to structure your own day. It encourages you to make the most of each pocket of time ... Be much more organised and efficient. And the teaching's really good, too. They work you hard."
Plans and ambitions
George's ideal job would combine his two enthusiasms – sport and writing. He already contributes articles to the College magazine, and has just started up his own blog.
After d'Overbroeck's, he hopes to study International Business with French at St Andrew's.