Reach Cambridge Summer Program: A view from Australia

The Reach Cambridge summer school program that I attended in July 2013 was by far one of the best experiences of my life. Reach Cambridge gave me the opportunity to learn, participate in activities and build many friendships in a very welcoming and enlightening environment. Coming from Australia, after more than 24 hours of travel to Cambridge, I had high expectations for the summer camp and I was not disappointed. In the Life Science and Medicine course I chose to do I was able to work with students from all across the world and be taught by highly educated and experienced lecturers. Reach Cambridge allows people with similar interests to unite and share their thoughts on topics that interest them the most. Whilst on the Cambridge summer school program there were always multiple activities on offer to keep us entertained. From sports to movies, glee club to photography club, there was always an activity to suit everyone. Although these activities were much fun to attend, it was great that we were also given the flexibility and responsibility to explore the shops and landmarks of Cambridge with our new friends in our free time. On the weekends we were taken to various locations around England. We visited London twice where we got to watch a performance of ‘Macbeth’ at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, visit the Tate Modern Art Gallery, the Science Museum and Harrods. We also had the experience of exploring Brighton, Stratford-upon-Avon, as well as Warwick Castle. All of these British landmarks were fascinating! My favourite place we visited was Brighton since we were dropped off at the beach and were free to explore the town with our friends. As an Australian, seeing a beach made of pebbles rather than sand was quite surprising but interesting. We enjoyed sitting in the sun, exploring the pier and tasting famous British Fish & Chips. It was a very enjoyable experience. When we arrived in Cambridge we were welcomed by some of the friendliest and energetic bunch of supervisors in their vibrant orange shirts. All of the supervisors encouraged everyone to make new friends and within the first couple of days it felt like we had known everyone for years. Leaving Reach Cambridge to return home was one of the hardest things I have ever done because it was like leaving my second family. The program will always have a special spot in my heart and I hope to reconnect with all the amazing people I met at the summer school program in the near future. Reach Cambridge changed me as a person. I have grown more confident, more independent and have more worldly knowledge as a result of attending Reach. By Erin, Reach Cambridge summer school Student & Reach Ambassador, July 2013.