Name: Fiona MacAulay
Job: Senior Corporate Communications Manager, Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
Industry: Public Relations
Class of: 2005
House: Law

What do you do?

I am currently Senior Corporate Communications Manager for the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).    

How did you get to where you are today?

After leaving HSOG, I studied History and Sociology at the University of Aberdeen, followed by a Masters in Communications, Advertising and Public Relations at Ulster University.   

I’d always wanted a career that involved helping others. While studying in Northern Ireland, I attended a work experience fair where I met Marshall – a golden retriever, guide dog and total dreamboat. From there, I started volunteering for the charity Guide Dogs. After a while, I landed my first public relations role with them. The rest is history…  

Twelve years on, and I’ve now worked for a range of charities in the UK and Canada – and have loved every second!   

What is a standout memory of your time at The High School of Glasgow?

Without a doubt, the Battlefields Trip. History was always my favourite subject at school and to have the opportunity to go to France and learn about World Wars I and II in such detail was incredibly powerful. It was an experience I’ll never forget.   

What one piece of advice would you give to current pupils and recent leavers as they look to their futures?

Don’t underestimate the power of passion. Find something you care deeply about, then make a career out of it. Don’t be afraid of failure, embrace it, learn from it, own it and use it to fuel growth. And finally, don’t forget to stop every now and then, take a big deep breath, and remind yourself that you’re trying your best. You’ve got this.    

I realise that’s three bits of advice, not one, but maths never was my forte (just ask Mr Moon!). 

To ReConnect with old classmates, forge new business links and seek mentoring advice, please join HSOG Lifelong Connections, our private LinkedIn group.

You can read more of our ReConnect submissions here.