Sixthformers experience life at top university

Sixthformers got a first-hand insight into life as a student at one of the country’s top universities this week.

The nine students from Barrow Sixth Form College, spent a night at the University of Cambridge’s prestigious and picturesque Fitzwilliam College and met current degree students.

Liam Buck, Charlie Curry, Rory Hall, Ellie North, Zack Pearson, Violet Price, Harriet Smith, Alex Stephens and Emily Smith stayed at the college, which hosts up to 750 undergraduate and postgraduate students, and toured other colleges including St John’s College and Emmanuel.

They experienced the day-to-day learning of a student at academic taster sessions and enjoyed workshops with advice on how to apply. The group also got the chance to experience the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences and took a trip to the city centre.

Emily Smith, who studies A Levels in history, politics and sociology at the Rating Lane campus, said the visit was very informative.

“It was great to speak to current students to get an insight of what it is like to study at Cambridge,” she said. “I also enjoyed the free time we also had and loved getting to experience the city.”

Alex Stephens, who studies A Levels in computer science, maths, media studies and further maths, said the visit was very enjoyable.

“I gained a good feel for the campus, and insight into what life would be like at Cambridge. I also experienced the great facilities which are available to use as a student there.”

Sam Roberts, careers adviser/personal progress coach at Furness College said the visit was a fantastic opportunity for the students to experience student life at Fitzwilliam College.

“Our students were made very welcome and the visit helped to dispel some of the stereotypes that are associated with studying a degree at Oxford or Cambridge.

“We support and encourage our students who want to go to Oxbridge universities to achieve their goals and each year we have successful applicants to top universities.

“As a college we are continually working to raise students’ aspirations and the trip gave us a great opportunity to show them what can be achieved.”

She also thanked Louis Dexter, school liaison officer for the University of Cambridge who facilitated the visit.