Firstly I should say a big congratulations to all of you who have bagged yourself a place this year. Hope you’re looking forward to the mixture of abuse, worship and free drinks you’ll be receiving from the second years (who are jealous they’re no longer freshers). Make sure you make the most of the activities organised for you, there’s events for everyone to meet people and ease into what will be an intense year socially and academically.
Moving on, I’ve just finished my first year and although it was tricky at times, I can’t wait to get back. I’ve made the most of my summer by filling it with things I wouldn’t be able to do at Cambridge, such as see as many friends from my old school that I can, go on sunny holidays and make some much needed money! Any engineers reading this will no doubt have researched the course far more than I had before applying and would therefore be aware of the necessary industrial experience you have to undertake. I’m currently doing a 6 week placement, which although demanding (ish), is helpful and financially rewarding so don’t be put off by the daunting sounding task of 8 weeks in 2 years.
In terms of going in for your first year at Cambridge, one thing I’ve learned is to be open to anything. Well maybe not anything, but anything that sounds reasonable! Don’t turn something down cos you think you’re too cool for it, because you’re probably not, and don’t turn a college sports team down cos you’re not good enough, as the majority of the players are probably beginners (or just pants) as well. Changing the subject, to get you hyped for the May balls at the end of the year (and to give you some hope that there is a big reward in the form of may week at the end of exams) I’ve pieced together a short video from the night of one of the college’s fireworks displays. Hope you enjoy it, and maybe I’ll see you around Cambridge!
