During the three-week holidays in the middle of the year I completed a summer school program at Cambridge University in the United Kingdom. There are a wide variety of courses to choose from, but I ended up choosing to study Medical Sciences. This course was very hands-on with practical work, which allowed me to immerse myself in the medical field. Each day was different, but very fulfilling.

What did an average day involve?

A big buffet breakfast was provided each morning where we would grab our trays and eat in the hall. Then we would go to class. For lunches, most days we would go into the town and grab something to eat, and at other times the leaders would organise activities. These activities can range from scavenger hunts to parties and sport tournaments. Dinner was also provided, and more activities would take place afterwards.

Did you make new friends through this experience? What countries were they from?

On the first day especially, it was a bit scary because I was dropped off at a university in a new country by myself. I was left to find my dorm room and all my classes on my own. I became close friends with my roommate. Most people who did the weekly programs were from all over America. There were also a few Australians. Other than that, there were many different cultures spread amongst the group.

Why did you choose to do this?

My sister did this same program two years ago and really enjoyed it. I heard many stories about how much fun she had there and all the special memories she made. I dreamed of doing the same thing once I reached Year 11.

How did this experience change you?

This experience taught me so many things, mostly about being independent and learning how to do things without others’ input. I had to manage my time, my workload and making friends. I also wanted to do this while spending my time in town learning and experiencing different things in Cambridge. After doing this program I switched my career focus for life after Year 12. Before the course I wanted to go into nursing but now I have decided I want to do paramedicine. We spent some time talking about trauma accidents and surgery. These classes specifically stood out to me as you had to essentially act as a paramedic. There were also many interesting class activities such as dissection of hearts and the respiratory system and learning how to do stitches.

What advice would you give for someone else considering an opportunity like this?

Some advice I would give is to make the most of all the activities the organisers provide. They are optional to go to, but it is where I spent most of my time. It sounds boring going to a tennis tournament or a water fight but spending that time with the friends I made there was one of the highlights of my trip.

Ava (11AMOF)

To learn about this program and other overseas study opportunities contact: Emma Rieger, Enrichment and Extended Learning