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How participation in co- and extra-curricular activities contributes to students’ fulfilment and success

Co- and extra- curricular activities are a key part of students’ personal and academic growth. They help students develop leadership and critical thinking skills, as well as helping with self-confidence, autonomy, and appreciation for others' differences and similarities. 

Students who optimise their co- and extra-curricular activities at Cambridge go on to perform better at Tripos. For those from disadvantaged backgrounds, the rich tapestry of opportunity offered by Cambridge can - when accessed - help to boost their often limited social and cultural capital which otherwise acutely impedes social mobility. 

However, too few students from under-represented backgrounds can afford to participate.

They are unable to embrace the opportunity to narrow the gap in social and cultural capital between them and their more privileged peers. Their academic and personal development is stunted due to limited financial resources. 

Your help during LucyGives Giving Week (18-25 October) will change this. With your support we will make funding available so that every student can make the most of Cambridge, enhancing their studies and ensuring they progress confidently into their chosen careers.

Co-curricular activities, such as taking part in subject-focussed societies, academic conferences or field trips, are unrivalled opportunities to extend learning beyond the scope of lectures, supervisions and lab classes. Students experience their subject in real world contexts, enabling them to supplement their knowledge and master the skills they need to achieve their best possible performance at Tripos and beyond.

A donation of £25 covers a student’s life membership of the Cambridge Medical Society

A donation of £155 ensures a third year undergraduate Earth Scientist or fourth year Physicist can join their peers on an 8-day Plate Tectonics field trip

Participation in extra-curricular activities including volunteering, professional workshops, short career- and enterprise-related courses, boot-camps, sports teams, drama or music groups and other societies, enriches students' lives, develops important leadership skills and contributes to overall fulfilment. 

A donation of £50 ensures a student can take part in a highly acclaimed Venture Creation Weekend short course in Entrepreneurialism at the Cambridge Judge Business School

A donation of £80 covers the average annual subscription fees to University level sports clubs

A donation of £100 covers the costs of sports kit for a member of the College football team 

A donation of £285 enables a student to take part in a Language course

 

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