Those who optimise their extra-curricular activities at Cambridge go on to perform better at Tripos

“As an incoming student, I wasn’t particularly familiar with the college system at Cambridge. However, once I arrived, it was easy to see what made Lucy Cavendish College unique. Each member of the college is caring, respectful, mature and places importance on unity and equality. The truly impressive part of being a LCC student is that regardless of background, interests or age, you’re given opportunities to thrive. Whether it's sports, writing, arts, conferences, etc. there is a whole community that is checking in to ensure you are comfortable, involved and thriving. You can also bet that if there is a new initiative or movement that requires attention or advocacy, Lucy student’s will be at the forefront with our college supporting us wholeheartedly.

I was fortunate enough to receive the Lindsey Traub Sports Fund to help finance my ice hockey season. It was only during my conversations with athletes from other colleges, that I realized Lucy Cavendish College is among a select few colleges that provides generous support to their athletes. This financial gift showed the University and the larger community that Lucy Cavendish College not only supports their students’ extra-curricular aspirations, but also believes that both male and female athletes deserve ice hockey teams at Cambridge. As a player, I was able to hold my head up high on the ice, knowing that my college sees the value in female athletes. I was proud to be a part of it.

As an international student, it’s hard not to think of home and miss your loved ones. When you move to a new country, you long to find any semblance of home. For me, the Cambridge University Women’s Ice Hockey Club became my way to connect with Canada and the members of the team have become my closest friends. When we step onto that ice and see the Canadian flag on the Cambridge Ice Rink’s backboard, we feel as though we’re stepping onto the national stage to represent our country, school and colleges.

Moreover, as a medical student, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the workload associated with our course. The ‘work-life’ scale tilts more and more towards work and we may neglect our personal health as a result. Being a part of the ice hockey team has allowed me to focus on my mental and physical health, which brought balance back to my student life. As a member of the team, you also make connections with the Cambridge community that will last a lifetime. Alumni from past years attend our games and follow our journey throughout the year. When you’re a part of a sports team at Cambridge, you’re affiliated with a long legacy of excellence!”

Your support during LucyGives Giving Week (18-25 October) will ensure that all students, like Simrat, can make the most of the myriad co- and extra-curricular opportunities Cambridge has to offer, irrespective of their background or financial capacity. In this way, your generosity will enhance their studies, ensuring they can achieve what they are capable of academically and progress confidently into their chosen careers.

What is LucyGives?

Together, we’ll raise funds during LucyGives (18-25 October) to help us level the playing field, ensuring those from under-represented or disadvantaged backgrounds can thrive academically and make the most of all that Cambridge has to offer. We’ll ensure they develop the skills required to achieve their career ambitions, so that they really can go on to make a positive impact on the world.

To get involved and to show your support please visit lucygives.lucy.cam.ac.uk