Robyn Wilson '05

Q & A

What advice would you give your high school self about the path that you've chosen?
I would tell my high school self to be open to the unexpected opportunities that I would encounter and also put myself in situations where I could openly challenge myself. I was shy in high school and it really wasn’t until my 3rd or 4th year of university where I opened up and became really comfortable with myself. But the best things in my life and my career have really happened since I have done that. I would also tell my high school self that I would most likely learn more outside of the classroom than in it, so to challenge myself in that regard too.

What was the one thing/person that most influenced the career you have now? 
I went to a leadership camp/conference in the summer between Grade 10 and Grade 11 at the suggestion of someone at York House. This camp introduced me to so many new people from a variety of walks of life, different career paths, volunteer opportunities, and new ways of thinking. I would say this opportunity definitely shifted my interests, and the incredible life-changing experiences that I have had since then have always been put on the same level as that camp.

What is the most valuable career advice you have received?
The most valuable career advice that I received was that when there is an opportunity presented to you, jump onto the rocket ship and figure out where it is going later on. Sometimes we think too much about an opportunity that we end up missing it.

What is the most important thing that you learned at York House that has helped you to succeed in your career?
York House fostered my interest in a wide variety of activities. I was on the basketball team, in the set club, joined Reach for the Top, etc. I think being able to participate in a range of activities is what has helped me get where I am today. I was encouraged to try new things and to be curious. I never had only one passion, so the opportunity to join a variety of clubs or sports helped me be able to find my way through high school and also carry that curiosity on throughout my life.

What’s your most vivid memory of your time at YHS?
My most vivid memory from YHS is very hard to narrow down. If I had to choose one, I would say that winning a provincial championship was pretty special. It was a phenomenal way to end that part of my high school career.

Who was the most influential person at York House School for you and why?
I was very lucky during my time at York House to have some beyond amazing friends, administrators, coaches, teachers, and mentors. I wouldn’t be able to say that there was only one influential person. I was fortunate enough to have many influential people. David Prissinotti was an amazing resource both as a teacher and a coach. Anita Irani did everything that she could to help me find the right university. Naming those two people doesn’t do justice to the list of incredible other people who had a hand in shaping my high school experience.