Rachel McCombie is a full-time copywriter and SEO executive based in the Cotswolds and working in Oxford.
L-R - me aged about 9, our pony Oliver, my sister Cathy
Born in London but basically originating from deepest darkest Somerset, I had an unconventional upbringing – educated at home from the age of eight, I was able to spend a lot of time pursuing things I found interesting, both academically and otherwise. My parents encouraged a wide range of interests and taught me not to follow the crowd. As a child I spent virtually every spare hour at the stables, riding and looking after horses – a love that has stayed with me to this day, though I haven’t the time or money at the moment to ride on a regular basis.
This photo was taken on the dome of St Peter's Basilica, Rome
The achievement I’m still most proud of is going to Oxford University to read Classical Archaeology and Ancient History at St John’s College, a privilege which opened up many new experiences and opportunities for me. It was a British School at Rome residential summer school I did as part of my degree that introduced me to the enduring appeal of Rome, and I was also able to spend a month on an archaeological dig at Lefkandi, in Greece. It was at Oxford that I discovered a love of gliding, and I’m secretly quite proud of the fact that I learned to fly before I could drive.
I realised I had a flair for writing at GCSE level, which grew further at A level and is something I’ve worked hard to develop continually ever since. In 2011 I completed a Diploma in Copywriting, and in addition to the writing I do for clients, I also write a lot in my own name – in particular for my Rome blog and for SEOptimise.
In my rare free moments I’m an avid reader, counting Charles Dickens, George Eliot and Gabriel Garcia Marquez among my favourite authors. I also love baking and cooking, and you’ll see a fair few recipes popping up on my blog. Other interests – less often indulged in but equally a part of who I am – include gliding, horse riding, English country houses and spending time with my parents’ gorgeous Dalmatian Fern.
Me with the two dogs - Fern and the late Dylan
