The dreaded day has finally arrived. How is it the last day of the Spring program?
The morning began with breakfast in Reach Hall, followed by a Humanities & Leadership workshop. This set the tone for the afternoon, when the students prepared two-minute presentations on leaders that inspired them. These presentations were delivered to a panel of judges (including Ananya, who taught the morning workshop) as well as their peers. These chosen leaders included Nelson Mandela, Maya Angelou, Barack & Michelle Obama, Captain America and Kathryn’s Mum! After close deliberation, the judges awarded the coveted prizes – a full set of Reach Cambridge merchandise – to Oskar, Kathryn, Ishan and Cléophée. We were very proud of all our students for their thoughtful presentations, which were delivered with confidence and bravery.
To commemorate their efforts over the course of the program, our Course Director David handed out certificates to each of the students in turn. These certificates feature a list of the lessons and activities in which the students have taken part, as proof of their participation in the program and as a keepsake. They were also presented with a Reach group photo, which the students have asked each other to sign: a personalised memory they can treasure. Sadly, Monika, our Director of Curriculum, couldn’t be here with us for the ‘ceremony’, so, in Oscars-Awards style, she recorded a video message for the students, which was both rousing and heartwarming. The afternoon was rounded off by watching a photo slideshow of the many things they have accomplished and the memories they have made over the last week alone. Emotional stuff!
In the blur of collecting feedback, recording video interviews and, of course, a lot of packing, before we knew it, it was time to head to St. John’s Chophouse for our celebratory final meal. Students enjoyed the plush, olde-worlde atmosphere and a sumptuous two-course meal. Sticky toffee pudding was a popular favourite in the dessert department! It was so lovely to share the special experience together and raise a glass (of water) to Reach’s first ever Spring program. Here’s to many more!
Tomorrow will be an early start, and no doubt full of emotional farewells – but we hope the students will take the fondest memories back home with them, and keep in touch with their new friends for a long time to come.
David handing out certificates
Lovely meal with lovely friends
