“Having a mentor who I could relate to was a huge reason I applied to Cambridge in the first place, as it gave me the confidence that someone like myself was more than capable of attending such a prestigious institution.” - Aamina ( previous mentee)
Who can apply to the Programme?
Current Year 12 students who have the potential to achieve A*AA at A level, or AAA Advanced Highers. Moreover, the Programme is for students with little family history of attending university and/or who go to schools where few people progress to university.
Priority is also given to students who:
- Are eligible for free school meals
- Are refugees
- Have caring responsibilities
- Have been or are in local authority care
- Are estranged
What will Mentees gain from the programme?
- A real insight and better understanding of Cambridge from a Cambridge Student
- First-hand knowledge from University staff on how to apply to Cambridge
- Learn about how academia works at Cambridge, e.g. supervisions, lectures etc
- The option to attend an in-person experience day hosted at a Cambridge College
What can I ask my Mentor?
Mentees will have the opportunity to ask their Mentor any questions they might have about studying at the University of Cambridge. Some examples include: lecture topics, how supervisions are structured or what their Mentor’s timetable looks like.
Mentees can also ask about College life or extracurricular activities such as societies.
What are the time commitments?
The programme runs for 4 months, from January 18th - 7th May
During the four months four months Mentees will communicate with their Mentors at least once a week.
Regular recorded webinars will take place; Mentees can watch these in their own time. Attendance for webinars is not recorded and will not affect your place on the programme.
What topics will the webinars cover?
The webinars will cover common myths of Cambridge University, focusing on seminars from underrepresented groups, led by current students and Cambridge SU. As well as information about the Cambridge application process, College process and culture provided by University staff.
How much does it cost?
There is no cost associated with the programme, and for any Mentees that decide to attend the in-person experience day, their travel costs will be reimbursed on a case-by-case basis. More information will be provided for those accepted onto the programme. If you have any questions regarding the cost of the experience day, please do email access@cambridgesu.co.uk.