VetMed student Joanna explains how philanthropy is enriching her University experience
Joanna, a second year Veterinary Medicine student, is from an underprivileged area of London and relies on her student loan. On receiving her offer to study at Cambridge, her main concern was that she would not be able to afford to take part in the many activities available to Cambridge students.
Thanks to the support received at Lucy, Joanna has been able to make the most of her time in Cambridge, participating in a number of co- and extra-curricular activities including performing at music events, going on College-run field trips and even joining the Cambridge Gliding Society.
“Gliding is something that I haven't done before, and if I hadn’t been at Lucy I don’t think I would have had the opportunity, given how expensive it is... But Lucy made sure that I was able to find transport there and back, so that’s fantastic, and it’s a lot of fun.”
Extra-curricular activities such as sports, volunteering or joining a society enrich students’ lives, develop important leadership skills and contributes to overall fulfilment.
“It’s something I look forward to on the weekend, after studying hard most of the week. Just being able to let go and do something completely different. Cambridge has so many brilliant societies, so many opportunities – I think everyone can find something they enjoy doing.
I was really surprised after coming to Lucy to see how supportive they were, wanting to make sure that their students were able to take part in all the things they wanted to and to make sure they were enjoying life outside of academia.”
Co-curricular activities are opportunities to extend learning beyond the scope of lectures, supervisions and lab-classes. Students experience their subject in real world contexts with field trips for example, supplementing their knowledge and mastering the skills they need to achieve their best academic performance.
Joanna commented:
“The trip to Newmarket Horse Racing Museum was just a great opportunity to continue learning about Veterinary Medicine from a place outside the University.”
Your support during LucyGives Giving Week (18-25 October) will ensure that all students, irrespective of their background or financial capacity, can make the most of the myriad co- and extra-curricular opportunities Cambridge has to offer. 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