Week two of programme two at Reach Cambridge started with the resumption of academic classes for all students after an action-packed weekend of sun, sports, and exploring London.
By the time the clock struck 9:00am, all students were back in their classes for the second stint of lessons. New taster courses started in the afternoon where students had the opportunity to explore Leadership, Economics, and an Introduction to Medicine.
We all filled the afternoon with the most classic of Camrbdige summer activities – punting on the river Cam! Our students were guided down the river past some of the oldest riverside constituent colleges of Cambridge University. From the river, they could see the library where Newton’s original manuscripts are kept, the 15th-century Gothic King’s College Chapel, and Alan Turing’s room when he was a Cambridge student!
Parts of the journey down the river weren’t so smooth, with one group’s punter losing their pole halfway down the river and being temporarily rudderless. Nevertheless, spirits were kept high with sea shanties, picking flowers from the river bank, and joking with one another. This afternoon was an example of the rare but stunning British sun and there’s no better way to enjoy it in Cambridge than relaxing in a punt!
After dinner in their college dining halls, students and staff enjoyed a fascinating lecture by Mo Tanweer of Pembroke College entitled ‘AI: Friend or Foe’. Mo discussed the development of AI, the governance and ethical challenges it presents, and his predictions for the future of the industry. He encouraged students to learn how to use AI effectively to give themselves an advantage at the workplace and in their personal lives, while being aware of its downfalls and biases.
The day finished with a knitting and crochet workshop for those looking for some downtime, while others prepared for our upcoming World Fair and Talent Show. Other students enjoyed the chance to spend their evening exploring town!
A well-earned rest is needed by all to prepare for another jam-packed Reach Cambridge day tomorrow!
